American Idol contestant Jack Blocker reflects on relationship with Katy Perry

Jack Blocker, the second runner-up of "American Idol" Season 22, has shared insights about his experience on the show and his dynamics with judge Katy Perry

He discussed the topics during an interview with US Weekly at CMA Fest over the weekend.

Blocker spoke about the invaluable advice he received from the judges, including Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie. “Just the confidence of them kind of encouraged me to do what I do as an artist," Blocker told US Weekly. 

He emphasised the challenges of navigating the music scene in Nashville and the temptation to emulate successful peers. 

“And over and over they're just like, 'Hey, do what you do well. Do what makes you unique. Even if it's weird facial expressions by the end of it. But just lean into that and be you as an artist,’” he continued. "I've just taken that and kind of ran with it for the show. Really believed it more than ever."

Initially, Blocker felt he didn't start off on the right foot with Perry, who voted against him after his audition. Despite this rocky start, Blocker later described Perry as a "good friend" and mentioned that they remained close throughout the competition.

“Once we got to LA and the shows were live, and she’d come up after a show, and she’d kind of give me a look, like, ‘What are you doing?’” Blocker recounted. “And then at the end … she came up to me and she was like, ‘What happens if you win this thing?’ I was like, ‘I don’t know. I have no idea. I haven’t gotten that far yet.’”

Even Though Abi Carter won Season 22, with Will Moseley finishing as the runner-up, Blocker's journey on the show highlighted his unique talents and resilient spirit.