Wyatt Pike drops out of American Idol unexpectedly after reaching top 12

Pike had earned praise from judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan

American Idol contestant Wyatt Pike has dropped out of American Idol unexpectedly.

Host Ryan Seacrest announced the development during Monday’s episode.

“Before we get to the results, I have to tell you that finalist Wyatt Pike will not be competing in the competition,” Seacrest said. “He had to drop out, but we wish him the very best.”

A representative for the show told People that Pike “could not continue due to personal reasons”.

The Independent has contacted ABC, which airs the programme, for more information.

Pike, 19, from Park City, Utah, had emerged as a favourite on the show, reaching the competition’s top 12.

“You have a style on stage that we like to watch,” judge Lionel Richie told him recently after he covered Kings Of Leon “Use Somebody”. “And to watch you take that song and make it your song – you’re on your way to something big, my friend.”

Luke Bryan, also a judge on the show, told Pike on the same occasion: “One of the coolest things that ever happened to me is the day I realised that I’d get to do music forever, under any circumstance. And I’m telling you, Wyatt, you’re going to be able to do music for the rest of your life.”

Pike’s Instagram account has already received plenty of comments from fans wondering what caused him to leave the show, and pledging to support his career in the future nonetheless.