Was American Idol Rigged for Iam Tongi? Megan Danielle Weighs In on the Alleged Scandal

The American Idol Season 21 finale aired on 21 May, revealing Iam Tongi as the first Hawaii-born Pacific Islander to ever win the coveted title, as well as a handsome cash prize and a record deal. Although most of the audience had no doubts about Tongi's victory, there emerged whispers of alleged vote manipulation after the show.

Some viewers contended that it was Tongi's poignant backstory, rather than his talent, that sealed his win. Tongi had dedicated his inaugural audition song to his father, who had introduced him to music and had tragically passed away a few months prior. This heartfelt narrative woven through Tongi's journey in the competition seemingly endeared him to millions of viewers. However, could the wave of sympathy have blurred the line between the appreciation of his voice and his story? Runner-up Megan Danielle shares her thoughts on the matter.

‘I feel like Iam was deserving and he’s so humble and so talented,’ Danielle told the New York Post when asked about the controversy. ‘And this was his time and I’m just super proud of him.’

Danielle's response is sure to warm the hearts of many! Even Tongi's fiercest competitor stands firm in her belief of his deserved victory. Danielle, a devout Christian, added that, in her view, the finale unfolded exactly as it was meant to.

‘I would say that it isn’t just because, you know, I feel like God made all of this happen for a reason,’ she said. ‘Even if I was first, second, last, whatever … I feel like any of us really deserved it.’

The 21-year-old singer also shared that the top 12 finalists maintained a supportive and close-knit group, staying connected through a messenger chat they set up during the show.

‘Really we’re just talking about the show and just how proud we are of each other,’ Danielle said. ‘We’re a big friend group. That’s the best part of the whole thing — the friends you make.’

Fans are in agreement with the sentiments of Season 21's runner-up. A majority voted for Tongi themselves, and they find it difficult to accept any suggestion that he was undeserving of the win.

‘Iam was definitely the deserved winner! If he didn’t win, I would say the show was rigged,’ a fan commented on Danielle's interview.

Source: New York Post, Deadline.