LAS VEGAS — Among the glitz and glam of the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, a lighthearted backstage moment may have stolen the show—or at least sparked a lot of laughs (and maybe a few swoons). The mystery behind Riley Green’s now-iconic mustache? It all started with a dare… from none other than Ella Langley.

Riley Green, known for hits like “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” and his all-American, clean-cut charm, has been rocking a noticeable new look lately. The mustache has divided fans—some love it, some are still adjusting—but it turns out this facial hair moment wasn’t part of a style makeover. It was just a challenge from a friend.

“I grew it because Ella Langley said I wouldn’t,” Green shared with a grin during an interview with Country Now. “So I had to.”

Langley, who’s making waves with her Southern grit and breakout hit “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” laughed when asked about the dare on the ACM red carpet. “Yep, that was me,” she admitted. “Didn’t think he’d actually keep it, but here we are.”

The two have been touring together on Green’s Ain’t My Last Rodeo Tour, and fans have loved watching their off-stage banter unfold. What started as a playful backstage joke has now taken on a life of its own—with memes, TikToks, and even fan-made merch celebrating the ‘stache.

And while the mustache may have started as a gag, Green’s learned to embrace it.

“I’ve actually gotten kind of used to it,” he said. “Feels like a throwback to old-school country—very ‘70s. Plus, it gives people something to talk about at the shows.”

Langley isn’t letting him forget it anytime soon. “I might’ve created a monster,” she joked. “But hey, it’s a good-looking monster.”

Fans have jumped in on the fun, flooding social media with posts asking whether Green should keep it or shave it. (Spoiler: Team Mustache seems to be winning.)

Whether it’s a temporary phase or his new signature style, the mustache moment has officially become part of Green’s story—and Langley’s unexpected legacy. No one could’ve predicted that a backstage dare would turn into a fan-favorite feature, but here we are.

One thing’s for sure: if Ella Langley ever dares Riley Green to do anything else, we’ll all be paying attention.

Addis, Louisiana is beaming with pride—and for good reason. Their very own John Foster, the 18-year-old country singer with a heart of gold, is returning home after earning a spot in the Top 3 on American Idol. Before he takes the national stage one last time in Sunday’s finale, his hometown is pulling out all the stops to celebrate his incredible journey.

Set for Wednesday, May 14, John’s homecoming will include a festive parade through Addis and a special concert along the Plaquemine waterfront. Foster, a freshman at LSU and former valedictorian of Brusly High School, has become a local legend overnight—and his community is determined to give him a celebration that matches the heart and grit he’s shown on stage.

Excitement is everywhere in West Baton Rouge Parish. Crews are decorating First Street, signs cheering John are popping up all over town, and students at Brusly High are proudly wearing school colors in his honor. Plaquemine Mayor JB Barker says the energy is “buzzing all across south Louisiana,” and the crowd is expected to be more than 5,000 strong.

The fun kicks off at 5 p.m. as John rides through town waving from a float. Then, in a true Louisiana twist, he’ll hop on a boat and cruise down Bayou Plaquemine to meet fans for a free live concert starting at 7:30 p.m. at Foundry Street. He’s set to perform six songs—one more chance for fans to see him shine before he returns to Hollywood. (Heads up: there’ll be security checks and a clear bag policy in place.)

From playing small shows at local spots like Side Porch Daiquiris to singing his heart out on American Idol, John’s rise has been nothing short of inspiring. Whether it was a touching tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn or a sweet dedication of George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart” to his girlfriend, he’s wowed both fans and judges with his sincerity and charm. Judge Carrie Underwood even called him a “diamond in the rough” with serious star potential.

Now, John is just one performance away from possibly becoming Louisiana’s next Idol winner—following in the footsteps of Laine Hardy, who took the crown in 2019. He’ll go head-to-head with fellow finalists Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts during the live finale on Sunday, May 18.

In a message to fans, John recently shared: “Louisiana, I’m coming home for you!” And with a celebration this big, it’s clear his home couldn’t be prouder. No matter what happens in the finale, John Foster’s already a hometown hero—and his story is just getting started.

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Jamal Roberts is a true example of what it means to never give up. The Mississippi native and proud father of two daughters has become a standout star on Season 23 of American Idol, but his road to this moment wasn’t easy. After being turned away twice in previous seasons, Jamal came back for a third try — and now he’s showing the world that persistence really does pay off.

On Sunday, May 11, Jamal delivered one of his most powerful performances yet, singing “Go the Distance” from Disney’s Hercules during the show’s beloved Disney Night. Backed by a sweeping orchestra, he poured his heart into the song, giving it fresh meaning with his rich vocals and emotional delivery. Fans and judges were all in agreement: this was a standout moment.

“He’s a lyrics guy, and it shows,” one viewer posted on social media. “You can feel every word he sings. It’s real.”

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Before hitting the stage, Jamal got to experience a little Disney magic at Disneyland Resort with his daughters — a dream come true for the P.E. teacher who often speaks about how much his family means to him. Their smiles lit up his social media, but once the lights dimmed and the music began, Jamal was laser-focused. Eyes closed, voice full of purpose, he sang for more than just a win — he sang for every kid with a big dream.

Ahead of the episode, Jamal opened up on Instagram about how life-changing this journey has been. “I’ve grown so much as an artist, both physically and mentally!!” he wrote. “Thank you, America, for taking a chance on me.”

Back in his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi, Jamal’s rise is more than just exciting — it’s deeply meaningful. During his audition, he talked about how his community has faced struggles, including violence and fear. But through music, he hopes to be a light in the darkness. “Some days, you don’t even want to come outside,” he said. “But I want to be someone who brings hope.”

And with performances like “Go the Distance,” he’s doing just that — not only chasing his own dream, but inspiring others to believe in theirs too.

As American Idol heads into its final week, with the grand finale airing Sunday, May 18 on ABC, Jamal Roberts remains a top contender. But no matter the outcome, his journey already feels like a win — for him, for his daughters, and for everyone who’s ever dared to try again.

Downtown Meridian was bursting with pride and excitement on Wednesday, May 14, as more than 20,000 fans gathered to welcome home their hometown star, Jamal Roberts. Now a Top 3 finalist on American Idol, Roberts returned to Mississippi for a hero’s celebration filled with music, emotion, and pure joy.

A Day to Remember
The festivities kicked off at 5:30 p.m. with a spirited parade that made its way from the Lauderdale County Courthouse to City Hall. Fans lined the streets waving signs, snapping pictures, and shouting their support. Roberts, all smiles, waved from his car, clearly moved by the overwhelming love from his community.

Later that evening, at 7:15 p.m., Roberts took the stage on the City Hall lawn for a free concert that could only be described as electric. His powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery had the crowd on their feet, and more than one fan was heard saying, “He’s not just a finalist—he’s already a star.”

Back to Where It All Started
Before the big show, Roberts made a surprise visit to Crestwood Elementary School—his old stomping grounds. What began as a fifth-grade vs. teachers kickball game turned into a heartwarming reunion. Students erupted with excitement as Jamal walked onto the field, hugging teachers and chatting with kids who’ve been voting for him week after week.

“It’s been amazing watching their reactions,” said teacher Deyantah Curry. “They’re so proud of him. And honestly, so are we.”

For Roberts, it was a full-circle moment. Reflecting on his early music journey, including a tough break on BET’s Sunday Best during the pandemic, he said, “Getting cut back then was hard, but it was a blessing. If that hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t be here now. This is where I’m supposed to be.”

Local Support and National Praise
Meridian went all out for its rising star. The city council set aside $20,000 to help make the event unforgettable, complete with food trucks, community booths, and crowd control for the massive turnout.

Even American Idol judge Carrie Underwood, who previously drew criticism for her lukewarm comments, changed her tune after Roberts’ moving rendition of “Rainbow Connection.”

“You’re a diamond in the rough,” she told him. “If you’re not careful, you just might win this whole thing.”

The Journey Isn’t Over
As Jamal Roberts heads into the American Idol finale on Sunday, May 18, his hometown is cheering him on louder than ever. From his humble beginnings in Meridian to the national spotlight, Roberts is proving that dreams really do come true—and he’s just getting started.

On May 12, 2025, all eyes were on Denton when American Idol host Ryan Seacrest announced that local favorite Breanna Nix had earned a spot in the Top 3. With over 19 million votes behind her, the 25-year-old stay-at-home mom — who once sang lullabies to her baby boy — now sings for an entire nation. And as she heads into the finale, she’s taking a heartfelt detour back home.

Denton’s Star Gets a Hometown Welcome

Breanna’s return on May 14 will be anything but quiet. Denton is pulling out all the stops with a celebration as big as Texas itself. The party kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with a vibrant parade circling the historic Downtown Denton Square. Expect floats, music, hand-painted signs, and an overwhelming wave of local pride — all to honor the girl who took her voice from Denton to the national stage.

Then, at 7 p.m., the heart of downtown will transform into a concert venue as Breanna performs a free show outside the Discover Denton Visitor Center. Families can bring lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy bites from local food trucks, and sing along as the hometown hero delivers a special set under the open sky. The best part? The concert will be featured in the American Idol finale on May 18 — so Denton’s love will be on full display across the country.

Businesses Join in the Celebration

Local businesses are adding their own flavor to the festivities, showing support with fun, creative tributes to Breanna:

Beth Marie’s Ice Cream is debuting a limited-time “Breanna Nix” flavor.

The Cookie Crave is baking up custom cookies and offering 25% off treats.

East Side & LSA Burger are shaking up special cocktails in Breanna’s name.

Studio LaSalle and Captiva Salon have Idol-themed beauty specials.

Norman Roscoe is live-printing “VOTE FOR BREANNA” shirts during the parade.

From ice cream scoops to salon chairs, Denton is showing love in every corner.

More Than a Contest — It’s a Community Moment

For Denton, this isn’t just about one singer making it big — it’s about watching one of their own chase a dream and soar. Breanna’s journey has been full of grace, grit, and heart, and her story is inspiring everyone around her. Whether she takes home the American Idol title or not, she’s already won the hearts of her town — and that’s something worth celebrating.

So, mark your calendar, grab your Breanna T-shirt, and come join the fun. Denton is ready to give their star the welcome she deserves — and the whole country is about to see just how proud this town truly is.

American Idol is officially coming back! ABC has renewed the hit singing competition for Season 24, marking its ninth season since returning to the network — and fans everywhere are already buzzing. But while the announcement sparked excitement, it also reignited one big question: Will Carrie Underwood be back at the judges’ table?

The news dropped with a classic nod to Idol nostalgia: “Dim the lights… here we go. #AmericanIdol is coming back for another season!” the show teased in a celebratory Instagram post. Along with the renewal, online auditions are now open, inviting the next wave of hopefuls to chase their dreams.

Carrie Underwood’s Future in Question
This season saw Carrie Underwood step into the judging role previously held by Katy Perry, bringing star power and firsthand Idol experience to the panel. While many fans loved her fresh take and warm approach, reactions have been mixed. Some viewers felt the judges — Carrie, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan — were a bit too gentle with their feedback, sparking debate online.

Behind the scenes, sources say Carrie has been open about how tough the judging gig can be, especially when it comes to eliminations. She’s reportedly struggled with the idea of coming off as too critical — something she’s not used to, given her long-standing role as a beloved performer rather than a panelist.

That uncertainty has led to speculation that Carrie might not sign on for another season. But despite the rumors, fans have flooded social media with support, urging ABC to bring back the full panel for Season 24.

Idol Still Shining Bright
Season 23 has continued the tradition of emotional journeys and standout performances, thanks to finalists like Jamal Roberts, Breanna Nix, and John Foster. Each contestant has brought something unique to the stage, reminding audiences why American Idol still holds a special place in pop culture.

While the show may not churn out chart-topping stars every season like it did in its early days with Kelly Clarkson or Carrie herself, it remains a heartwarming celebration of raw talent and resilience — the kind of show families still gather around to watch together.

Whether or not Carrie Underwood decides to return, one thing is clear: American Idol isn’t slowing down. With a new season ahead and more voices waiting to be discovered, the journey continues — and fans are here for it.

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After an unforgettable night of performances and over 19 million votes, American Idol has revealed its Season 23 Top 3: Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix. As they prepare for the biggest stage of their lives, the spotlight turns to their hometowns, where each finalist will be celebrated with parades, mini-concerts, and community love on May 14.

Before heading back to Los Angeles for the epic two-night finale airing May 18 and 19, they’ll enjoy a moment to reflect—and soak in the cheers of those who’ve been with them from the very beginning.

Jamal Roberts: Hometown Hero in Meridian, Mississippi
Jamal Roberts, 27, has won hearts across America with his smooth vocals and soulful performances—but in Meridian, Mississippi, he’s already a star. Known locally as “America’s Favorite P.E. Teacher,” Jamal teaches at Crestwood Elementary, and his hometown is pulling out all the stops to welcome him home.

At 5:30 p.m., a parade will roll from the Lauderdale County Courthouse to City Hall, followed by a special performance from Jamal himself. Cameras from Idol will be there to capture what’s sure to be an emotional moment as he reunites with the students and staff who’ve cheered him on from day one.

Breanna Nix: Small-Town Star Shines in Denton, Texas
Breanna Nix, 25, has become a fan favorite with her powerhouse country vocals and genuine Texas charm. Her hometown of Denton is ready to celebrate in a sweet way—literally!

Kicking off at 9 a.m., Breanna will greet fans at Beth Marie’s Ice Cream Shop, where a brand-new flavor inspired by her will debut. Later, a 4:30 p.m. parade will wind through the town square, and at 7 p.m., Breanna will take the stage for a free concert that promises to be one for the books.

John Foster: Louisiana’s Rising Star
John Foster, just 18 years old, has taken American Idol by storm with his heartfelt lyrics and soulful tone. A proud native of Addis, Louisiana, John is getting a hometown celebration fit for a star.

Festivities begin with a 5 p.m. parade, and the party continues at 7:30 p.m. with a concert at Waterfront Park in Plaquemine. From local valedictorian to national finalist, John’s journey is inspiring fans both near and far—and his hometown couldn’t be prouder.

Countdown to the Finale
After their hometown visits, the Top 3 return to L.A. for final rehearsals and their debut single recordings, which will be released through Idol’s label partner, 19 Entertainment. On May 18, they’ll take the stage one last time to sing for America’s vote during a two-hour live broadcast.

Grand Finale Lineup: A Night of Stars
The three-hour live finale on Monday, May 19, promises to be a star-studded celebration. Featured performers include:

Brandon Lake

Goo Goo Dolls

Good Charlotte

Jennifer Holliday

Jessica Simpson

Josh Groban (guest mentor)

Kirk Franklin

Myles Smith

Patti LaBelle

Salt-N-Pepa

The judges—Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan—will also perform, along with Idol’s artist-in-residence, Jelly Roll. All Top 14 contestants will return for exciting group numbers throughout the show.

As the curtain begins to close on Season 23, fans everywhere are asking the big question: Will it be Jamal, John, or Breanna? No matter who wins, one thing’s certain—these three rising stars are just getting started.

From co-valedictorian at Brusly High to one of the top 3 finalists on American Idol — John Foster’s journey has been nothing short of amazing. And today, his hometown made sure he felt every bit of their love and pride.

Earlier in the day, John returned to Brusly High School for a heartfelt visit, standing on the same football field where he once delivered his graduation speech. This time, though, he was greeted by cheers, applause, and a sea of students, teachers, and fans showing up to celebrate one of their own.

“You’re lucky to have teachers who really care,” Foster told the crowd. “I’m here because of them.” His words hit home, especially for the students looking up to someone who not long ago walked the same hallways they do now.

A Homecoming to Remember
And the celebration didn’t stop there. At 5 p.m., the town of Addis kicked off a parade in John’s honor along First Street. Fans lined the route in town colors, waving signs and shouting his name.

Then came the showstopper moment: Foster arriving by boat to Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park for a special free concert at 7:30 p.m. Fans could enjoy the music from the park — or even from boats along the bayou. Talk about a Louisiana-style welcome!

Addis Mayor David Toups summed it up best: “We’re proud of him. He’s doing an amazing job representing our community — and our whole state.”

From Local Star to National Favorite
It’s been a whirlwind year for the 2024 Brusly grad, who not only left high school with a 4.0+ GPA and a 33 ACT score, but now has all of America watching as he chases his dream on American Idol.

“He was standing in the gym giving a speech last year,” said Brusly High Principal Walt Lemoine. “Now he’s on national TV, in the Top 3. That’s something special.”

The town has fully embraced Foster’s journey. Teachers, classmates, and neighbors have thrown pep rallies, hung banners, and sent in video releases so students can appear in clips of his homecoming. Everywhere you go, you hear the same thing: “We’re rooting for John.”

Win or Lose, He’s a Hometown Hero
As the American Idol Season 23 finale draws closer, John Foster isn’t just making waves onstage — he’s become a symbol of what’s possible with talent, heart, and a strong hometown behind you.

Whether he takes home the title or not, there’s no doubt the people of Brusly and Addis will be voting — and cheering — until the very end.

Their message couldn’t be clearer: “We’re proud of you, John. Let’s bring it home!”

Ella Langley has never been one to sugarcoat a story—and with her song “Hell of a Man,” she doesn’t hold back. This fiery track cuts deep with bold lyrics, raw emotion, and a powerful message about loving someone who’s as complicated as they are unforgettable.

At its core, “Hell of a Man” isn’t just about a relationship gone sideways—it’s about the kind of emotional tug-of-war many people know all too well. It dives into what it means to care for someone who’s equal parts captivating and frustrating, and how that messy middle ground can make a person stronger, wiser, and more self-assured.

Real Talk with a Rock-Edge Twist
From the first few lines, Langley paints a picture of a man who’s not easy to love—but impossible to ignore. She’s not making excuses for him, but she’s not dismissing the connection either. There’s admiration in her voice, but it’s clear she’s standing her ground.

The title phrase, “Hell of a Man,” isn’t just a compliment—it’s layered with grit, sarcasm, heartbreak, and truth. That’s what makes the song hit so hard. It’s not one-dimensional. It’s real.

A Sound That Matches the Story
Musically, the song packs a punch. Gritty guitar riffs, steady drums, and a driving rhythm give it an edge that balances perfectly with Langley’s no-nonsense vocals. Her delivery is strong but vulnerable—like someone who’s been through it and come out tougher, not bitter.

You can hear the emotion in her voice, but it’s not a cry for sympathy—it’s a declaration of independence. She owns the story. She owns the pain. And most importantly, she owns her power.

More Than Just a Breakup Song
What makes “Hell of a Man” stand out is how it goes beyond the usual heartbreak narrative. It’s not about blaming or wallowing—it’s about learning. Langley leans into the complexities of love and reminds us that even the most difficult relationships can teach us something about ourselves.

It’s a reminder that you can walk away stronger. That you can feel the fire and still come out on top. And that sometimes, the most important thing you learn in love is how to hold onto yourself.

The Bottom Line
If you’ve ever had a love that shook you up and taught you a few lessons along the way, “Hell of a Man” will feel like it was written just for you. Ella Langley taps into that messy, beautiful truth with honesty and heart—and turns it into a powerful anthem for anyone who’s learned to stand a little taller after the storm.

Whether you’re blasting it in the car or letting the lyrics sink in on a quiet night, this one’s bound to leave a mark. Ella Langley is proving she’s not just one to watch—she’s one who’s here to say exactly what needs to be said.

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Season 23 of American Idol is heating up, but no one lit the stage—or the internet—on fire quite like John Foster did during the Top 8 live show on May 4. What started as a fun tribute to iconic women in music quickly became the moment of the season, thanks to one magnetic performance and a heartwarming surprise backstage.

From Crowd Favorite to Certified Star
It was “Ladies’ Night” on Idol, and John Foster kicked things off with a bang. The 18-year-old Louisiana native took on Bonnie Raitt’s “Something to Talk About,” and he didn’t just sing it—he owned it. Strutting across the stage with confidence, charm, and a wink that had the crowd eating out of his hand, Foster gave the classic hit a fresh, fiery twist.

The judges couldn’t get enough.
“You just owned that stage,” Carrie Underwood raved.
Luke Bryan called it, “Charisma overload in the best way.”
Even the notoriously tough Katy Perry cracked a huge grin: “Pure fun. Pure star power.”

Then Came The Miranda Moment
But what really got fans talking? A behind-the-scenes moment with his mentor for the week, country queen Miranda Lambert. After working through the song in rehearsal, John turned to her and casually dropped, “Miranda, you were my first celebrity crush.”

Lambert’s reaction? Classic. She laughed, blushed, and joked, “Now you’re making me nervous!”
Fans went wild. Memes. TikToks. Tweets. GIFs. The hashtag #MirandaMoment started trending within minutes.

And Miranda’s advice clearly stuck. “Lean into the sass,” she told him. “Flirt with the crowd. Own it.” Foster did just that—and then some.

From Idol Contestant to Viral Sensation
By the end of the night, social media exploded with love for John.
“John Foster just made Miranda Lambert blush on national TV. KING,” one fan posted.
Another chimed in, “Not just the best singer—he’s the most entertaining. Give him the crown already.”

Even Miranda herself got in on the fun, posting a backstage selfie with the caption: “I think he gave me something to talk about tonight! Watch out, America—this kid’s the real deal.”

Why He’s More Than Just a Contestant
John’s been winning hearts since day one. Raised in foster care and proud of his Louisiana roots, his story is full of grit and heart. Week after week, he’s proven that he can deliver powerful ballads, but this week? He showed the world he can light up a stage, make you laugh, and still hit every note.

“He’s the full package,” said executive producer Trish Kinane. “Real, funny, talented—everything you want in an Idol.”

Nashville insiders are already buzzing about his post-Idol future. “He’s got that star quality you can’t teach,” said one industry rep. “He’s ready.”

The Countdown Is On
With just a few episodes left, John’s momentum is impossible to ignore. Whether it’s his southern charm, that signature grin, or his voice that effortlessly blends country soul with pop appeal—America is paying attention.

And after a night like this, it’s safe to say: John Foster didn’t just give us something to talk about. He gave us a new Idol to believe in.

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@John Foster gave us something to talk about! 🎸 #americanidol

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