American Idol finalist Laine Hardy was back in his hometown Tuesday for celebrations ahead of the conclusion of the singing competition show.
Hardy started off the day meeting Governor Edwards at the Governor’s mansion. There May 14, 2019, was declared Laine Hardy Day.
He also received a key to the Town of Livingston.
“It’s Lane Hardy Day in Louisiana, he’s got the key to French Settlement. He can do whatever he wants,” said Lee Hawkins, Principal French Settlement High School.
His hometown is putting out all the stops with his “homecoming celebration” with hundreds of students on hand from Hardy’s high school and elementary school.
“Since we found out that lane was making it to the top 3 we’re all so excited and so ecstatic to have a pep rally to welcome him home,” Said French Settlement High student Alyssa McCrystal.
The American Idol finalist was greeted with applause, signs of support and even a talent show to show him how much his hometown is behind him.
“I didn’t know what to expect actually. Walked in and it was like boom! Right in the face!” Hardy said.
A parade and concert were held Tuesday night in Livingston. They are hopeful that Laine will be the next American Idol.
In Hardy family nature, they paraded through the town in a boat on their way to fairgrounds for a free hometown concert.
“It’s a crazy experience. from last year to this year he has been phenomenal. He has grown as an artist and we are super proud of him,” Laine’s parents said.
His parents Cindy and Barry have been by his side since day one. Laine even had supporters from Acadiana, Ville Platte to be exact.
“We love Laine so much. We took the day off to spend it with him,” a group from Ville Platte said.
We love his music and we love the heart that he puts into singing and we think it’s amazing and we think it’s awesome that someone this sweet has made it on American Idol”
Though he is known across the country as the ‘Bayou Boy,’ his parents say the growth they’ve seen in him is incredible.
“Its been like night and day. I watched a video from him auditioning the first time to this time. Its two different kids, not even the same kid.”
This is Hardy’s second season on Idol. Last year he made it all the way to the top 20.
This morning our crew was on hand for the homecoming: Laine Hardy’s hometown visit kicks off with stop at governor’s mansion
