Mason native earns spot in ‘American Idol’ top 24

On the 2023 season premiere of “American Idol,” judge Katy Perry gave 21-year-old Michael Williams permission to grab a golden ticket while music legends Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan cheered. PHOTO: ABC/WCPO

On the 2023 season premiere of “American Idol,” judge Katy Perry gave 21-year-old Michael Williams permission to grab a golden ticket while music legends Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan cheered. PHOTO: ABC/WCPO
Arts & Entertainment
By
Updated April 10, 2023
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Mason native Michael Williams is one step closer to being the next “American Idol.”

In the showstopper round that aired April 9, the 21-year-old singer performed Miley Cyrus’ “Angels Like You.” Before his performance, Williams said he felt confident but was managing expectations.

After giving him critiques on his performance, judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie put Williams through to the top 24.

His initial audition with the song “Talking to the Moon” by Bruno Mars wowed the judges. Perry particularly praised him as “top-10 worthy.” His premiere performance earned him a golden ticket straight to the Hollywood round.

ExploreMason native gets golden ticket to Hollywood on ‘American Idol’ premiere

Follow Williams’ journey on “American Idol” at 8 p.m. Sundays on ABC.

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About the Author

Zoë is an All Media Journalist with Dayton.com. She earned her BA in communication from the University of Dayton and has four years in the journalism industry, including bylines in national and local news. She previously worked as a reporting intern for Dayton Daily News.