After rising above a sea of more than 120,000 hopefuls, the final three contestants of American Idol Season 23—John Foster, Breanna Nix, and Jamal Roberts—took the stage on May 18, 2025, for one last chance to win America’s heart. The star-studded three-hour live finale was filled with powerful performances, personal stories, and a whole lot of emotion.
With the pressure on and the clock ticking, each finalist had just two rounds of performances to secure those final votes. Early voting would determine who placed third—an announcement host Ryan Seacrest made halfway through the show. Every moment mattered.
Round 1: Powerful Anthems and Big Emotions
The show opened with a high-energy performance of Queen’s “We Are the Champions,” featuring the finalists and the Top 14. Then came the solo performances, each guided by mentor and country star Jelly Roll, who helped the singers choose songs that felt true to them.
John Foster kicked things off with a bold tribute to his veteran grandfathers, singing Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.” Backed by raw emotion and country grit, the Louisiana native earned a full standing ovation from the judges. Lionel Richie called it “the perfect song,” while Carrie Underwood told him, “I’m so proud of you.” Luke Bryan praised his growth and confidence since the very beginning.
Jamal Roberts chose “First Time” by Teeks, the song that first caught Jelly Roll’s attention online. Dressed sharp in a white suit and flashing warm smiles, Roberts captivated the room. Carrie noted how “at ease” he looked, while Bryan joked, “Will you teach me how to be that smooth?” Richie couldn’t help but laugh, saying, “If you’re thinking about it, you’re already doing it wrong!”
Breanna Nix delivered a moving performance of Katy Nichole’s “In Jesus Name (God of Possible).” Backed by her faith and guided by Jelly Roll’s mentorship, she poured her heart into every word. Her young son Emerson was seen dozing peacefully in the audience—just like during her first audition. Carrie Underwood praised her for proudly “speaking the name of Jesus,” and Bryan added, “I think the crowd is saying it all for me.”
Round 2: Hometown Highlights and Heartfelt Songs
The second round kicked off with a look back at each finalist’s hometown visit—filled with hugs, surprises, parades, and emotional moments that reminded everyone just how far they’d come.
John Foster returned to Addis, Louisiana, where he met with the mother of Maggie Dunn, a close friend he lost in a tragic car crash in 2022. He performed his deeply personal single, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” for a hometown crowd under the stars. Back live, he sang John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” prompting another standing ovation. “It’s still hard to believe you’re only 18,” said Richie. Underwood added, “Of course the country boy got the crawfish parade!” referencing Foster’s quirky hometown ride.
Jamal Roberts visited Meridian, Mississippi, reuniting with his newborn baby and daughters, and visiting the school where he teaches PE. A massive hometown concert drew over 20,000 fans. On the Idol stage, he performed The Temptations’ “Just My Imagination,” oozing charm and soul. “You’re one of the most amazing people I’ve ever seen on this show,” said Bryan. Richie added, “You’re divinely guided—that’s something I’ve never said before.”
Breanna Nix went home to Denton, Texas, where she reflected on how Idol changed her life. From parades and an ice cream flavor in her name to a surprise “mommy makeover” from local moms, the hometown love was strong. She wrapped up her journey with a stirring performance of “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. “Perfect song, perfect voice,” said Richie. Underwood called her a “gorgeous, wonderful inspiration.”
As the night came to a close, emotions ran high and anticipation filled the room. No matter the outcome, it was clear that all three finalists had already won something even greater—a place in the hearts of millions and a head start on what looks to be a promising music career.
Whether it was John’s humble heart, Jamal’s joyful soul, or Breanna’s quiet strength, the American Idol finale reminded everyone why we tune in each season—to witness the rise of real stars with real stories.
