Fritz Hager has been chosen as the winner of Live with Kelly and Ryan‘s American Idol Encore contest. Viewers voted this week to give their favorite eliminated contestant a chance to perform on the show this Friday.
Fritz Hager Wins ‘American Idol’ Encore
On Monday, after Noah Thompson was announced as the winner of American Idol Season 20, Live with Kelly and Ryan announced that eight contestants were up for the Encore contest — Christian Guardino, Emyrson Flora, Fritz Hager, Jay, Lady K, Leah Marlene, Mike Parker, and Nicolina.
Fans had until Tuesday morning to vote, and on Wednesday, host Ryan Seacrest announced that the winner was Fritz Hager. Fritz was a fan favorite throughout the competition, making it to the Top 5 before being eliminated with Nicolina.
This Friday, Fritz will appear on the talk show to perform his original single “Hearts Align.” Since he didn’t make it into the Top 3, he never got to sing the track on the show, so this is exciting. Last year, the honor went to third-place finisher Grace Kinstler, but fans voted differently this time.
SEE ALSO: ‘AMERICAN IDOL’ FRONTRUNNER FRITZ HAGER CELEBRATES EP HITTING NO. 1 ON iTUNES CHARTS
Fritz Shares His Excitement About Going to New York
Live films in New York City, so Fritz will be on his way there to perform on Friday’s show. The 22-year-old commented on the show’s Instagram announcement, writing, “SO PUMPED THANKS SO MUCH!”
Fritz also shared the news on his own Instagram account, posting a photo of himself in the recording studio and writing, “Thanks so much to everyone that voted, so pumped to be able to perform this song for you guys!”
The singer’s friend and fellow contestant Leah Marlene commented, “YAYAYAYAYAYYYY!!!!!!!” Even Season 16 American Idol winner Maddie Poppe shared her excitement for Fritz, writing, “Congrats!!!”
If you want to see Fritz perform on Friday, check the Live website for the channel and time where you live.
