On May 12, 2025, American Idol Season 23 narrowed its contestants down to the Top 3 in a thrilling second Disney Night. Each contestant performed two songs in front of a live audience, with the stakes higher than ever: a spot in the May 19 finale and a hometown celebration awaited the lucky few. After 19 million votes, Ryan Seacrest announced that Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix had earned their spots in the Top 3, leaving fan favorites Thunderstorm Artis and Slater Nalley behind.
The show kicked off with a fun, dream-like sequence featuring judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan working behind the scenes at Disneyland. Each contestant had the opportunity to work with guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda, who helped them add emotional depth and storytelling to their Disney songs.
Jamal Roberts: A Soulful Standout
Jamal Roberts delivered yet another powerhouse performance that left both the crowd and judges applauding. His first song, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” from Remember the Titans, got the audience clapping along, with Bryan and Richie leaping to their feet. Richie called it “Jamalarized,” praising Roberts for adding his soulful twist to the classic. In his second performance, Roberts tackled “Beauty & the Beast,” a song he initially struggled with. With Miranda’s guidance, he brought fresh, personal meaning to the ballad, impressing the judges with an emotional, R&B-infused rendition.
John Foster: Playful and Polished
John Foster charmed the audience with his charismatic stage presence. His first performance, “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book, started slow before picking up speed, with Foster bringing energy and fun to the beloved classic. Richie praised his likability, and Bryan complimented his unique sound and style. In his second round, Foster tackled “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppet Movie. Inspired by Willie Nelson’s version, Foster brought his own spin, sitting on a stool with his guitar, delivering a heartfelt and vulnerable performance. Richie called him a “stylist,” and Underwood confidently stated, “If you’re not careful, you could win this whole thing.”
Breanna Nix: Emotional and Powerful
Breanna Nix took the audience on an emotional journey with her performances. Her first song, “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” from The Parent Trap, was a lively, upbeat number that Nix initially feared. However, she embraced the challenge and was praised for her stage presence and confidence. For her second performance, Nix sang “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan, dedicating it to her husband in the audience. With a powerful and emotional delivery, she drew the judges in, with Richie admiring her strong voice and Underwood praising the heartfelt family moment.
Thunderstorm Artis: A Heartfelt Goodbye
Thunderstorm Artis brought his signature soothing sound to the stage with “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella, a performance dedicated to his young sons. The intimate performance earned a standing ovation from Bryan and Richie. Artis followed up with “Go Find Yourself” from Cars, dedicating it to his late father. Despite the glowing feedback, Artis did not advance to the finale.
Slater Nalley: Youthful Energy, Bittersweet Exit
Seventeen-year-old Slater Nalley gave it his all in his final performance. He started with “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story, performing without his guitar for the first time. His charm and comfort on stage impressed the judges. He ended with a high-energy performance of “Born to Be Wild” from Mighty Ducks: D3, rocking out with his electric guitar. Despite his strong efforts, Nalley didn’t make it to the Top 3.
As Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix prepare to return to their hometowns, the anticipation is building for the American Idol Season 23 finale on May 19, 2025. Only one will be crowned the next American Idol.
