Lionel Richie Says Watching Roman Collins Sing Is a 'Spiritual Experience' After Shocking Elimination (Exclusive)

Roman Collins, the fan-favorite who was saved by judges last week, has been sent home.

During the Monday, April 23 episode of American Idol, fans of the show were shocked when host Ryan Seacrest announced that Collins and Jayna Elise were sent home. After the show, PEOPLE caught up with judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie to discuss the results.

"Roman brings so much energy. Roman gives you that when you finish, you are rung out. It's a spiritual experience," Richie, 74, tells PEOPLE exclusively. "And when you know you've left the concert and you're emotionally worn out, that's Roman."

Reflecting on his elimination, Richie says he's confident in Collins' future.

"I'll say Jennifer Hudson was thrown off at number seven. So the possibility of superstardom, I believe it exists," he continues.

Richie adds, "I could take the top 14 and make a whole business out of the whole business. I mean, it's unbelievable what we attract on American Idol. And I would not let that whole class go. It's that beautiful. I mean, it's kind of frightening because every time they would finish, Luke and Katy and I would look at each other and go, 'I'm glad I don't come behind that.'"

Elise and Collins were both saved the week prior by judges — but now the fate of each contestant is in the hands of viewers watching at home.

"The bottom line is, it's not necessarily what we agree with all the time, but he was a great singer, great spirit," Bryan, 47, says. "He was a true talent and every week we are going to be sending home people that we're heartbroken about."

After Monday's episode, Abi Carter, Emmy Russell, Jack Blocker, Julia Gagnon, Kaibrienne
Kayko, McKenna Faith Brienholt, Mia Matthews, Triston Harper and Will Moseley.

On Sunday, April 22, Gagnon won over the judges and guest mentor Gene Simmons with her performance of Whitney Houston's "I Run to You."

"Your transformation and the growth from day 1 to present day is just so inspiring to watch and its why this show has been on the air for so long," Bryan said.

"And you are a perfect example that you can take this experience and have confidence and stand up there for the rest of your life. That was amazing."

American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.