American Idol may have just launched its 24th season, but the show is already facing criticism from some longtime viewers — and it has nothing to do with the judges.
The ABC competition series kicked off its new season with a two-hour audition premiere filmed in Nashville, Tennessee, airing Monday, January 26. While the episode introduced fresh talent and showcased the familiar judging panel of Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie, sharp-eyed fans quickly noticed a contestant who felt anything but new.
A Familiar Face Takes the Idol Stage
During the limited number of auditions shown in the premiere, viewers recognized Jacquie Lee, a New Jersey native who previously competed on Season 5 of The Voice back in 2013. At just 16 years old at the time, Lee wowed coaches with her rendition of Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black, ultimately joining Christina Aguilera’s team and finishing the season as runner-up.
Now 28, Lee returned to television singing competitions — this time on American Idol. She performed “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, earning enthusiastic praise from all three judges and securing a golden ticket to Hollywood.
Fans Split Over “Recycled” Contestants
While Lee’s performance impressed the judges, some fans weren’t as thrilled. Once viewers recognized her from The Voice, criticism quickly surfaced online — particularly on Reddit — where fans questioned why Idol continues to feature contestants who’ve already had high-profile chances on other singing shows.
One fan wrote bluntly, “What is up with Idol recycling contestants from other shows?”
Others pointed out that this isn’t an isolated case. Season 23 standout Thunderstorm Artis previously competed on The Voice Season 18, while Drew Ryn, also from Season 23, was a finalist on the first season of The X Factor.
Is This Just the New Reality of Talent Shows?
Not everyone saw the issue as a problem. Some fans argued that crossover contestants have always existed — even during American Idol’s early FOX-era years, when performers often appeared on shows like Star Search before landing on Idol.
“This happens a lot,” one commenter noted. “Even back then, Idol contestants had been on other shows before.”
Others suggested the landscape of music competitions has changed entirely. Instead of being a once-in-a-lifetime shot at superstardom, modern singing shows have become stepping stones — or repeated opportunities — for artists trying to stay visible.
“In 2002, you went on Idol trying to be the Elvis of your generation,” another fan wrote. “Now, you go on these shows hoping to get two minutes of screen time and a story to tell when you’re back playing bars next week.”
Time Changes Everything
Several viewers also pointed out that Lee’s appearance on The Voice happened more than a decade ago — meaning many current Idol fans likely wouldn’t recognize her at all.
“At this point, it’s pretty niche knowledge,” one commenter said. “Her season of The Voice was over 10 years ago.”
A Debate That’s Not Going Away
Whether fans see crossover contestants as unfair “recycling” or simply part of the modern music industry, the debate shows no signs of slowing down. As American Idol Season 24 continues, viewers will be watching closely — not just for breakout performances, but for who might already have a familiar past.
