'American Idol' Winner Maddie Poppe Shocked Judges With Her Appearance

From Country Living

• American Idol crowned Maddie Poppe the winner in 2018.

• The singer returned during the season 17 auditions, but no one recognized her.

Maddie Poppe delighted the American Idol audience during season 16 of the reality show. Her flawless performances and adorable personality (not to mention her relationship with runner-up, Caleb Lee Hutchinson) stole the judges’ hearts, eventually earning her the title of champion. Now, the 21-year-old is making waves on the series again.

Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan are only a few weeks into season 17’s auditions. So far we’ve seen talent that makes us laugh, ugly cry, and scream, “That’s the next Kelly Clarkson!” But nothing compares to how we felt when Lady Mapo took the stage.

The mysterious contender donned a black dress, combat boots, dark makeup, and multiple lip rings. She expressed that she, “Wanted to bring an energy that the judges haven’t seen before,” and even went so far as to tell Katy that last year was “really boring” and “too American.”

The judges looked thoroughly confused, as did we all. But as soon as the piano started playing, the woman took off her wig and revealed that it was none other than Maddie! Katy, Luke, and Lionel were stunned at the big reveal, and the viewers at home couldn’t get enough of her prank.

Of course, the real Maddie has a very different vibe when it comes to her work. The folksy artist recently released a new song, “Little Things” and recorded a video for the upbeat breakup jam, “Keep On Movin’ On.” Both are a far cry from the moody aesthetic of Lady Mapo-though we kind of think she's pulling it off? Weigh in:

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