Tuesday night’s episode of Australian Idol has reshaped the competition, with a double elimination locking in the Top 8 as the live rounds move firmly into audience control.
With the judges no longer deciding who stays or goes, the public vote is now driving the outcome, raising the stakes for those still in the running.
Harry Lamb and Wanwue Tarpeh were ultimately eliminated after receiving the lowest votes, joining Jacinta Guirguis and Charlie Moon in the bottom four before the final decision was revealed.
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The Top 10 opened the night with a group performance of Noiseworks’ Touch, before hosts Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie guided viewers through the results as the competition narrowed further.
Harry Lamb reacts to his elimination on Australian Idol, sharing a brief on stage moment with Jacinta Guirguis (image – Seven)
Judge Marcia Hines said the level of talent had continued to lift across the series.
“The performances are on another level; we couldn’t be prouder.”
Amy Shark also praised Wanwue’s presence in the competition, telling her, “I loved your empathy, you are such a kind-hearted person, that’s what makes you the whole package.”
Trè Samuels and Kesha Oayda had already secured their places in the Top 8 after being saved by the judges following the performance shows, leaving the remaining contestants to rely on viewer votes.
The bottom four were given one final chance to perform for survival, with Wanwue Tarpeh delivering Jessie J’s Price Tag and Harry Lamb opting for a pared back version of How To Save A Life, a performance Kyle Sandilands described as emotional and believable.
Wanwue Tarpeh reacts after her elimination on Australian Idol, departing the competition just shy of the Top 8 (image – Seven)
Following her elimination, Wanwue said she remained focused on what comes next.
“This is not the end. This is the start of my journey. I have come so far, I’m not stopping here.”
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ARIA Award winner Budjerah also took to the stage with a performance of his latest single Gentleman.
The Top 8 now includes Charlie Moon, Harlan Goode, Jacinta Guirguis, John Standley, Kalani Artis, Kesha Oayda, Simela Petridis and Trè Samuels, all competing for the 2026 title and a prize package that includes $100,000, a recording deal and industry opportunities.
Online, viewers have continued to note the depth of talent this season, with reaction suggesting the shift to public voting is already shaping the competition in new ways.
Australian Idol continues Sunday 29 March at 7.00pm and Monday 30 March at 7.30pm on Seven and 7plus.
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