Six became three on Monday night’s Australian Idol as the viewing public decided who would go through to the Grand Finale and who would be going home.
As Dylan, Denvah, Trent, Amy, Ivana and Isaac performed on the Australian Idol stage for perhaps the last time, voting lines had already closed, leaving contestants, judges, hosts and the live audience hanging on tenterhooks.
First up to sing was Queensland talent Denvah, performing the Tina Turner classic The Best, sung in her own inimitable countrified style.
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While judge Kyle Sandilands’ praise was lukewarm, calling the performance “nice”, Amy Shark was more effusive.
“I think you are so smart in just doing everything your way,” she said.
“That is a monster song and you made it so beautiful.
“I just think we are really lucky to have you as a part of this show and competition.”
Next up was Melbourne singer Ivana, who chose to sing Rather Be by Clean Bandit, egged on by her mum Daniella, who was watching on with pride in the audience.
Kyle called Ivana a “powerhouse” singer who already had a huge fan base, while Marcia said the upbeat performance had “lightened her load”.
But only one of the two singers would go through to the grand final — and Australia chose Denvah.
Ivana was graceful in learning she would not make it through to the final stage.
“I went out there and showed Australia who I am and who I want to be for an artist,” she said.
“I am happy for Denvah because she deserves it.
“I auditioned last year and didn’t get a callback, so Top 6, I love it!”
Next up was NSW supermarket worker Isaac, who sang Before You Go by Lewis Capaldi.
“I have so much belief in you, man,” Amy Shark said after Isaac gave another strong performance.
“You’re on this awesome journey, I am just so proud we get to be a part of it.”
Agreed Marcia: “This has been quite the ride for you … Listen, boyfriend, regardless of how this turns out, congratulations.”
Up against Isaac was Broome singer Amy, who wowed with a rendition of Gravity by Sara Bareilles that the judges called “elegant”, “incredibly professional” and “really cool”.
When the votes were tallied up between the two, it was revealed that Amy was in the top three — and Isaac’s Idol journey was over.
“I am grateful,” he told the audience.
“Top 6, who would ever have thought that?”
Speaking to the judges, he said, “Thank you guys for believing in me and bringing me this far.”
The last two singers to perform were Queensland camel farmer Trent and Northern Rivers dad Dylan.
First up was Trent singing Fire and the Flood by Vance Joy — a perfect song choice for a country singer at heart.
Marcia loved the performance, saying Trent was “something special”.
“You are just who you are,” she said.
“You are a beautiful young man and we are so happy to have you.”
Dylan then performed Ordinary People by John Legend, to huge audience applause.
“Australia is in love with you,” Amy said.
“We loved you every single week. You have made me cry twice,” Kyle added.
“If you go home I’ll be bawling my eyes out. That’s all I’m saying.”
But Kyle didn’t have to worry, because it was Dylan that Australia voted into the final three.
Australian Idol Top 3 Grand Finalists
1. Denvah – QLD
2. Amy – WA
3. Dylan – NSW
Australian Idol continues Sunday at 7pm on Channel 7 and 7plus.