Keke Palmer freaks out over her 2003 audition for 'American Idol' juniors

Keke Palmer could have become an "American Idol." Well, kind of.

"The 'Burbs" actress, who was a guest judge on the March 16 episode of the ABC competition show, was stunned when host Ryan Seacrest revealed unearthed footage from her time on the short-lived 2003 show "American Juniors."

"I remember 'cause I was hosting it. She was 9 years old," Seacrest said. "It was difficult, but we found it about an hour ago."

When a preteen Palmer was asked what she would do with the prize money, she replied: "Gonna get a house. I’m going to give some money to my parents. … I’m going to help them with their taxes."

The video then cuts to Palmer in a red T-shirt and jeans, showing impressive footwork and other dance moves to the tune of Earth, Wind & Fire's "Let’s Groove." Palmer, 32, who initially reacted in open-mouthed bewilderment at seeing 20-year-old clips for the first time, ran in a circle in front of her seat.

Afterward, Palmer confronted the longtime "Idol" emcee about her lack of success on the show. "Ryan, why didn’t you pick me back then?" she asked.

"I wasn’t in charge, and I’m still not," he replied.

Palmer, along with mentor Brad Paisley, was part of the new "ohana round," in which the first half of the Top 20 contestants took the stage and, for the first time, sang for viewers' votes.

The results will be revealed in the March 30 "Songs of Faith" episode, which kicks off Season 24's live shows.

See Keke Palmer react to her 'American Idol' juniors show audition

After cementing her position in "Idol" franchise history, Palmer will return for the March 23 episode, the second "ohana round." Alongside judging and mentoring, the singer will also take the stage for a performance.