Kelly Clarkson couldn’t join the “American Idol” family on Thursday night for the show’s action-packed season 15 finale because she’s expecting baby number two any day now. But after bringing the panel (and pretty much everyone) to tears last month with an emotional performance of “Piece by Piece,” she was there in spirit via a pre-taped greatest hits medley that served as one of the two-hour series finale’s top moments.
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And proving that once and “Idol” always an “Idol,” Clarkson and family were clearly watching the proceedings at home because less than an hour after the last piece of confetti fell, Clarkson posted a farewell video starring adorable daughter River Rose.
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“Congrats @TrentWHarmon 🙂 @laporsharenae can’t wait 4 ur album too! River wanted 2 say bye #AmericanIdol #IdolFinale,” Clarkson wrote alongside the 13-second clip where River Rose waves goodbye to the show that made her mom a star.
Congrats @TrentWHarmon 🙂 @laporsharenae can’t wait 4 ur album too! River wanted 2 say bye #AmericanIdol #IdolFinale pic.twitter.com/nom1SL0qQL
— Kelly Clarkson (@kelly_clarkson) April 8, 2016
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At least one former “Idol” contestant was charmed by nearly two-year-old River, fellow first season alum Jim Verraros. “I can’t handle her!!!!,” he tweeted at Kelly Thursday night. “She is my favorite thing on the planet!,” Kelly tweeted back. “She’s hilarious and cracks herself up which is the best part ha!”
Which elicited a very sweet offer from Verraros.
@kelly_clarkson If you and Brandon need date night, I will babysit!!!
— Jim Verraros (@JimVerraros) April 8, 2016
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