Murphy -- April 28, 2026: After a high-stakes night of performances that captivated the nation, Murphy’s very own Braden Rumfelt has officially sung his way into the Top 5 of ABC’s American Idol. The 22-year-old local standout continues to represent the mountains on the national stage, surviving the latest round of eliminations during the April 27 broadcast.
Rumfelt’s advancement follows a high-stakes "Taylor Swift Week," where the remaining seven contestants were tasked with reimagining hits from the global superstar's catalog.
A Night of "Cardigans" and Classics
Rumfelt took a creative risk with a soulful rendition of Swift’s "Cardigan" from her Folklore era. The performance showcased his emotional range and signature WNC grit, earning praise for his ability to make a pop-folk anthem entirely his own.
In addition to the Swift cover, each contestant performed a second track. Rumfelt pivoted to a more rhythmic vibe with "This Love" by Maroon 5, proving his versatility to both the judges and the voting public.
The Final Five
The competition narrowed significantly on Monday night. Joining Rumfelt in the elite Top 5 are:
Chris Tungseth, 27 (Fergus Falls, MN)
Hannah Harper, 26 (Willow Springs, MO)
Jordan McCullough, 27 (Murfreesboro, TN)
Keyla Richardson, 29 (Pensacola, FL)
What’s Next?
The pressure is mounting as the show heads toward its May 11 season finale, where only three finalists will compete for the crown. For fans in Western North Carolina looking to keep the momentum going for our local star, voting remains the key to keeping him in the spotlight.
How to Vote
To help Braden Rumfelt reach the finale, you can cast your votes during the live broadcasts using the following methods:
Online: Cast up to 10 votes at americanidol.com/vote.
Text: To vote for Braden, text 9 to 21523 (up to 10 times).
Social Media: Visit the official American Idol Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok pages and follow the instructions on the pinned voting posts.
Image: Braden Rumfelt