Keyla Richardson may have landed in third place on season 24 of “American Idol,” but she’s still number one among countless fans who cheered her on and voted her through week after week.
That was evident on May 12, 2026, as Richardson, 29, and her nine-year-old son, Drew, returned home to Pensacola, Florida, less than 24 hours after the live finale the previous night. The R&B singer was surrounded by cheering fans waiting at the airport for their arrival, many holding “PensaKeyla” signs.
Videos Show Keyla Richardson & Son Drew Posing For Pics With Fans
Just days before Richardson’s return, she drew an estimated crowd of 11,000 to a concert during her hometown visit, according to the segment that aired during the “American Idol” finale.
Despite the massive show of support from Florida fans, 25-year-old Hannah Harper was voted the winner during the three-hour finale, and 27-year-old Jordan McCullough was named runner-up.
Getting off the plane at Pensacola International Airport, Richardson was all smiles, dressed casually in a black Pensacola hoodie and joggers, with sunglasses and fluorescent yellow Nike slip-ons. Drew, a joyful presence on the show throughout the season, followed close behind.
Richardson and Drew stopped to chat with supporters, take photos, and in one video, she was seen giving a hug to Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves, who’s been a huge supporter of hers. He presented Richardson with a key to the city during her hometown visit, and was even spotted in the “American Idol” audience during one of the live shows.
Fans Insist Keyla Richardson Will Be ‘Just Fine’ & Soar After 3rd Place Finish
Richardson has handled the disappointment of placing third with grace, writing on Instagram shortly after Ryan Seacrest announced the results, “The journey has been amazing, we are just getting started 💛 #Idol”
But many supporters have voiced their frustrations, including her mom, who wrote on Facebook after the finale, “My baby was robbed. She did not fail. She was robbed, I’m sorry I’m gonna say it!”
The chorus of fans upset with the outcome continued in the comment sections of videos from her arrival back home, but many insisted that the music teacher will go on to have a successful career despite not winning.
One commented, “Even though she should’ve won….God has better plans for her🩷🙏🏽”
“We anticipate hearing from you and Drew in the near future,” another fan wrote. “Thank you especially for your courageous faith. Your Little Light ain’t so little anymore. It is shining big and bright!”
Someone else referenced 2004 “American Idol” winner Fantasia Barrino by writing, “As Fantasia’s song goes ‘Sometimes you have to lose to win again.’ Keyla, your greater is coming. This was just a stepping stone for what you’re about to do.”
JHud got a shout-out, too, from a fan who wrote, “You are an amazing singer and should have won in my opinion, but Jennifer Hudson didn’t win either and look at her now. You will be just fine!”
Richardson also received support behind the scenes at the finale from 2025’s third-place finisher, Breanna Nix, who’s been busy performing and recording music since last year’s finale.
Captioning a photo of them backstage, Richardson wrote, “Season 23 & Season 24 3rd place finalist! It’s NOT BAD AT ALL, it’s actually GREAT. I’m excited about what’s coming, It’s only up from here! Love you @breannanixmusic ❤️🤞🏾 #Idol #Top3”
