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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by American Idol (@americanidol)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by American Idol (@americanidol)

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.

Back in her home state of Alabama, country rocker Ella Langley gave a performance that fans won’t soon forget. On February 13, 2025, at the Orion Amphitheater in Huntsville, she brought the crowd to a standstill with a deeply personal and emotional rendition of her ballad “Monsters.”

As part of her Country Grit & Whiskey Tour, this stop was more than just another show—it was a homecoming filled with meaning. Standing under a single spotlight, Langley began the song with a quiet, acoustic intro, her voice steady but heavy with emotion. The first words, “They only come out when the lights go low…” echoed through the amphitheater, and you could feel the entire crowd holding its breath.

Released in late 2024, “Monsters” quickly became a standout track on her debut album Heart Like a Shotgun. The song dives into heavy themes—mental health, addiction, and the hidden struggles so many people carry. With her signature blend of Southern grit and honesty, Langley gave listeners a powerful reminder that they’re not alone.

“This isn’t just a song—it’s something a lot of us live with,” she shared with the audience mid-performance. “And sometimes, the hardest part is saying it out loud.”

The stripped-back delivery only made the lyrics hit harder. As she sang lines like “The mirror shows me someone I don’t know / I smile and lie and put on a show,” many in the crowd were visibly moved—some wiping away tears, others quietly holding onto the moment.

When she reached the final chorus, her voice cracked slightly, raw with emotion. The silence that followed was broken by a roaring, heartfelt standing ovation. Local fan Rachel Morgan, a college student, summed it up best: “That wasn’t just a performance. That was her heart. And it felt like she was singing directly to mine.”

“Monsters” has already earned high praise for its honest storytelling and emotional depth—marking a softer but powerful shift from Langley’s rowdier hits like “Damn You” and “Country is My Drug.” It’s proof that her artistry runs deep—and that her willingness to be vulnerable might just be her greatest strength.

“She’s opening up a whole new conversation in country music,” said Nashville critic Jason Reeds of Country Current. “Ella’s not afraid to shine a light on what most people keep in the dark. And that’s what makes her so compelling.”

As the night came to a close, Langley turned back toward the mic one last time and whispered, “Keep fighting your monsters. I’m fighting mine, too.”

The crowd exploded into another round of applause—not just for the song, but for the shared feeling that they were seen, heard, and understood.

“I’m so lost, I don’t know what to say.” Ella Langley’s voice cracked as she stood under the spotlight, dressed in an elegant black gown, holding her very first ACM trophy. Her hands trembled. Her eyes welled with tears. The crowd inside the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, erupted into applause—but for a few seconds, time stood still.

That moment—when she and Riley Green won Music Event of the Year for their powerful duet, “You Look Like You Love Me”—was one of the most emotional highlights of the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards.

As the announcement rang out, the crowd rose to its feet. Cameras caught Ella and Riley sharing a heartfelt embrace before heading to the stage, visibly overwhelmed by the news.

With tears still in her eyes, Ella took the mic first. “This is my first ACM Award,” she said, her voice full of disbelief and gratitude. “This song came from such a vulnerable place in my life. To see it reach people and mean something to them… it’s beyond anything I imagined.”

She thanked her team, her family, and most of all, the fans who helped turn their duet into a breakout hit.

Then it was Riley Green’s turn. Humble and heartfelt, he praised his duet partner. “Ella brought this song to life in the most beautiful way,” he said. “I’m just lucky I got to be part of it. Thank you to everyone who believed in this track, and to country music—for still honoring songs that come from the soul.”

“You Look Like You Love Me” is more than just a ballad—it’s a slow-burning southern story about that powerful, unforgettable moment when you meet someone who feels instantly familiar. With Ella and Riley’s voices melting together in harmony, the song captured hearts across the country.

Its emotional pull was undeniable. In addition to Music Event of the Year, the song also won Single of the Year and Visual Media of the Year—a rare sweep that speaks to the depth of its impact.

As Ella and Riley walked off the stage, the applause still echoing, it was clear this wasn’t just a win—it was a career-defining moment. A moment that reminded everyone watching of the magic that happens when music is honest, heartfelt, and real.

John Foster went all out for the American Idol Season 23 finale, and it showed. The 18-year-old country standout lit up the stage with a passionate performance of Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” bringing heartfelt energy and deep respect to the patriotic anthem.

Dressed in red, white, and ready to win, Foster sang with conviction, earning an enthusiastic standing ovation from all three judges.

“That was the perfect song choice, and you absolutely nailed it,” Lionel Richie told him, clearly impressed. Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan echoed the praise, both noting how far Foster has come since his very first audition.

Though Foster’s performance was a standout, the finale was packed with big talent. Fellow finalists Jamal Roberts and Breanna Nix also delivered powerhouse moments, leaving the final decision in the hands of America’s voters.

John Foster’s Emotional New Single: “Tell That Angel I Love Her”

In the lead-up to the finale, each top 3 finalist dropped a brand-new single. Foster’s original track, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” struck a deep emotional chord. The song was inspired by a heartbreaking moment in his life—the loss of two friends in a tragic car accident.

“I wrote this for the two sweet angels that were taken from us on New Year’s Eve,” he shared. “Maggie was one of my best friends, and Caroline was a good friend I wish I’d gotten to know even more.”

Foster first performed the song during Idol’s Songs of Faith week, where it moved both the judges and viewers to tears. On Instagram, he called it “the most instrumental song I’ve ever sung in my life.”

Foster Reflects on His Idol Journey

Whether he walks away with the title or not, Foster already feels like a winner.

“Ever since I got that golden ticket, I’ve felt like I’ve won,” he told a local news outlet in Louisiana. “To be standing here in the top three—it’s just unbelievable.”

As for how he’s stayed grounded through the whirlwind, Foster gives credit to his faith.

“I’ve really had to stay focused on who I am, my purpose, and keep my faith at the center of everything,” he told nola.com. “That’s what’s keeping me steady through it all.”

With deep Southern soul in his voice and pride in his heart, American Idol finalist John Foster delivered one of the most moving performances of Season 23 — a heartfelt tribute to his two military veteran grandfathers.

Taking the stage during the live finale, the 18-year-old Louisiana native performed Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” and it was clear from the first note that this wasn’t just a performance — it was personal. With his grandfathers watching from the audience, Foster sang with conviction, honoring both his family and the countless veterans across the country.

The crowd was on their feet before the song was even over. Judge Carrie Underwood looked like a proud mom, glowing with admiration. All three judges gave Foster a standing ovation and praised his emotional delivery and confident stage presence.

Foster, who beat out more than 120,000 hopefuls to make it to the top three, stood beside fellow finalists Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts during the May 18 finale. With just minutes to impress the nation one last time, he chose a song that reflected both his patriotic spirit and personal story.

Mentored by Jelly Roll, Foster shared in rehearsals how overwhelmed he’s been by the support from fans across the country. But it was that finale moment — guitar in hand, grandfathers proudly watching — that truly showed the heart behind the artist.

Lionel Richie praised Foster for picking the “perfect song,” even joking that he could have a future in politics. Luke Bryan commended his growth, saying he’s watched him become a fully formed artist right before their eyes. And Carrie Underwood told him, “You gave us everything tonight — your voice, your pride, your story. I’m so proud of you.”

What made Foster’s performance shine wasn’t just his strong vocals, but the emotion behind every lyric. His tribute turned a country anthem into something deeply personal — a thank-you to his family, his roots, and to everyone who’s served.

As he wrapped up the performance, Foster looked into the crowd and said with sincerity, “If America thinks this little ol’ boy from Louisiana has what it takes, it would be the honor of a lifetime to be your next American Idol.”

Win or lose, Foster’s performance struck a chord — and proved that sometimes the most powerful moments come from singing straight from the heart.

Jamal Roberts delivered one of his most powerful performances yet with “First Time” by Teeks — and it wasn’t just the vocals that struck a chord. The song, personally chosen by mentor Jelly Roll, was a meaningful throwback to the viral TikTok moment that first put Jamal on everyone’s radar. Dressed in a sharp white suit and beaming with calm confidence, Jamal made his way through the crowd, his rich, soulful voice creating an instant connection with fans.

The judges didn’t hesitate to leap to their feet. Lionel Richie looked genuinely emotional as he praised Jamal for “stepping fully into your groove” and “owning the moment.” Carrie Underwood lit up, telling him, “You’ve got it all — a voice that stirs the soul, a heart full of light, and stage presence that keeps leveling up.” Luke Bryan gave a big thumbs up to Jamal’s storytelling, calling it “next-level — truly world-class.”

Backstage, Jelly Roll was overcome with emotion. He told Ryan Seacrest the performance felt like everything coming full circle. “Watching Jamal sing that song live hit me hard,” he said. “People are finally seeing what I saw from day one — he’s not just a singer; he’s a force with a story that matters.”

With voting still open and the third-place reveal looming, Jamal’s supporters were fired up and ready to keep him in the race. And as the first half of the finale wrapped up, the energy in the studio was electric — with Jamal Roberts right at the heart of it.

John Foster brought pure magic to the American Idol Season 23 finale with his heartfelt take on John Denver’s classic, “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” The moment was unforgettable — earning a roaring standing ovation from all three judges and a sea of cheers from the live audience.

The 18-year-old from Addis, Louisiana, poured his heart into the performance, turning the beloved tune into a feel-good, emotional high point of the night. “Vote, vote, vote!” he grinned after the song, as the crowd shouted back with just as much energy.

Foster’s journey to the finale has been anything but ordinary. Rooted deeply in love for his hometown and shaped by personal loss, his story has touched fans across the country. During his recent visit home, he stopped by his old high school and spent time with the mother of his late friend Maggie Dunn — a meaningful moment that inspired his original ballad “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” He wrote it that very same day and performed it under the stars at a local concert, where fans raised lighters in Maggie’s memory.

Back on the Idol stage, Foster kept the emotional momentum going. His performance of “Country Roads” felt like a homecoming in itself. Lionel Richie praised his poise, saying, “It’s hard to believe he’s only 18.” Carrie Underwood beamed, calling him “the country boy through and through,” and Luke Bryan called the performance “wonderfully done” — even teasing him about the giant crawfish float he rode during his hometown parade.

The finale featured Foster alongside finalists Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts, all giving it their all in a last bid for America’s vote. With just three hours to impress millions of viewers, every note counted — and Foster’s soared.

Host Ryan Seacrest kept the suspense high, announcing the third-place spot midway through the show, while fans across the country tuned in to every moment.

Foster’s performance reminded everyone why he’s been a fan favorite all season. He’s got the voice, the heart, and the story — and he’s never forgotten where he came from. Whether or not he takes home the Idol crown, there’s no doubt: John Foster is already a star.

The 60th ACM Awards were full of unforgettable moments, but none sparked more buzz than Blake Shelton’s surprise reunion on stage with his ex-wife. The two stunned the crowd — and the internet — when they joined forces for a heartfelt performance of their classic hit, “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma.”

It had been over a decade since the former couple shared a stage, but the chemistry was still there. From the moment they started singing, you could feel the room shift. Their harmonies were flawless, their timing natural, and the few exchanged glances didn’t go unnoticed by fans or fellow artists.

Jelly Roll, clearly caught up in the nostalgia, stood mid-performance, clapping and mouthing every word like a fan at a hometown show. But while some were cheering, not everyone was smiling.

Cameras caught glimpses of Gwen Stefani — Blake’s current wife — sitting in the audience with a composed but unreadable expression. She didn’t speak, but her serious face and still posture were enough to light up social media with speculation. Comments poured in describing her as looking “tense” or “uncomfortable,” while others defended her, noting that the moment was probably awkward no matter how supportive she is.

Behind the scenes, insiders say the duet was kept tightly under wraps. Only a select few knew it was happening until just before the curtain lifted. “It was a bold move,” one show producer shared. “It paid off, but it definitely stirred some emotions.”

Was it a simple nod to country music history or a performance loaded with personal meaning? No one’s saying for sure. But in true country fashion, the moment mixed heartache, history, and raw emotion — the stuff great songs (and headlines) are made of.

Whatever the backstory, the performance may have only lasted a few minutes, but the aftershocks are still being felt — onstage, backstage, and likely at home, too.

Long before he became a finalist on American Idol, John Foster had his first public performance at a small, homegrown spot known as Morley Marina, nestled in the heart of what locals call Back Brusly.

Not from around there? In Brusly, Louisiana, everything west of Highway 1 is lovingly referred to as “Back Brusly.” Cross the highway, and you’re officially in Front Brusly—a local distinction that residents wear like a badge of honor.

Jeremy Prejean, manager of Morley Marina and a longtime family friend, remembers that first performance like it was yesterday. He’s watched John grow up, right next door. And if you ask Jeremy, the real MVP behind John’s musical spark was his uncle, Gaylen Martin.

He’s not the only one who thinks so. Rick Bourgoyne and Blake Sarradet, both longtime workers at John’s family business—Benoit’s Country Meat Block in Addis—say Martin played a huge role in helping John find his footing as a performer. Even John’s grandmother, Verbie Benoit, agrees.

Though Martin doesn’t seek the spotlight or the credit, he admits he saw something special in John early on.

“I’d show him a few chords on the guitar, give him something to practice, and the next day, he had it down,” Martin said. “He just picked it up so fast.”

Martin didn’t hesitate to take time off work to travel with John to his American Idol audition in Nashville—and then again to Hawaii. Now, he’s headed to Hollywood for a second time, supporting his nephew every step of the way.

Despite not being related by blood—Martin married John’s aunt—there’s no doubt about the deep bond they share. And when John returned home to perform in his Idol hometown concert, Martin stood proudly by his side on stage, guitar in hand, playing for the biggest crowd of his life.

“That was the largest audience I’ve ever played for,” Martin said with a smile.

Seeing him up there struck a chord with many in the tight-knit West Bank community. People like Aimee Rabalais, secretary at Brusly High School, felt proud just watching him.

“I was so happy Gaylen got to be up there with John,” she said. “I just know his heart was overflowing.”

That shared moment almost didn’t happen. Martin had taken a break from music after the sudden loss of his brother and longtime bandmate. It was John who helped bring music back into his life.

“John Foster brought me back,” Martin said. “I’ll always be grateful.”

Gratitude is something the Addis and Brusly communities know a lot about—especially after the heartbreak they’ve endured. From the tragic 2011 loss of beloved Brusly High teacher Sylviane Lozada, to the deaths of three high school students in under a year, including Maggie Dunn, who was one of John’s close friends.

@qtmandyyy

This is the best Valedictorian speech I have ever heard. Yes, it is my son, but this just shows you just what kind of old soul and great person he actually is. His music isnt his only gift from God but his intelligence is as well! I cant wait to see exactly where God leads you. I know you are going to do great things! #johnfostermusic #Classof2024 #valedictorianspeech #godsgift #maggiewashere #ourangelmaggiewillalwaysbewithus #BHS #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fypage #fypシ゚viral

♬ original sound – Amanda

John even wrote a song for Maggie, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” which he performed on American Idol earlier this season. The two went to homecoming together. He honored her in his valedictorian speech, a moment that went viral on social media—well before anyone knew his name across the country.

Brusly High principal Walt Lemoine remembers that speech vividly.

“Reading it on paper, it seemed like any other valedictorian speech,” he said. “But the way he delivered it—man, that kid just has it. He’s always had it.”

This past week in Brusly has felt like a whirlwind of pride and emotion. The school’s track team won state. The softball team made it to the finals. The community packed into downtown for John’s pep rally and concert. And by Saturday, they were in Sulphur, cheering on the high school baseball team in the state championship.

Even though the baseball team fell short in the end, losing 7-3 to North DeSoto, the spirit of the town hasn’t dimmed. They’ve weathered harder storms—and they always lift each other up.

John Foster isn’t just singing for a title. He’s singing for his people—for every loss, every celebration, every hug on a front porch, every small-town cheer from both sides of the Mississippi River.

And if you listen closely on Sunday night, you just might hear all of Back Brusly and Front Brusly singing right along with him.

The moment we’ve all been waiting for is almost here! After weeks of unforgettable performances, emotional highs, and fan-favorite moments, American Idol Season 23 is down to its final three: John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix. One of them is about to become the next American Idol—and it all goes down Sunday, May 18 at 8 PM ET on ABC and streaming on Hulu.

Meet the Finalists: What Makes Each One Shine
Breanna Nix – The Heartfelt Songbird

Breanna has moved viewers with every performance, bringing powerful vocals and raw emotion to the stage. A stay-at-home mom with a background in gospel music, she’s bravely shared her journey with self-confidence, connecting deeply with fans.

Although she may not lead in online engagement, Breanna has delivered standout moments like “You’ll Be in My Heart” and “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” which earned over 150K views each. Her future in Contemporary Christian Music looks bright, no matter the finale outcome.

Jamal Roberts – The Born Entertainer

Jamal, a P.E. teacher from Mississippi, has proven he’s more than just a voice—he’s a full-on performer. From soulful ballads to high-energy showstoppers, he’s kept both judges and fans on their toes.

With performances like “Beauty and the Beast” (1.1M views) and “A Change is Gonna Come” (1.3M), Jamal has racked up a loyal following. Lionel Richie called him one of the season’s most versatile voices, and Luke Bryan hinted he could go all the way.

John Foster – The Country Favorite

At just 18, John Foster has become the frontrunner with his smooth tone, charming personality, and classic country style. While he doesn’t have the widest range, his song choices and delivery consistently resonate with the Idol fanbase.

His version of “Believe” pulled in a whopping 2.2 million views—more than any other contestant this season. With past country winners like Laine Hardy and Noah Thompson paving the way, John could very well be next in line.

The Fan Forecast: Who Will Win vs. Who Should Win?
Who Fans Think Will Win:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by American Idol (@americanidol)

John Foster – 53.64%

Jamal Roberts – 34.38%

Breanna Nix – 11.98%

Who Fans Want to Win:

Jamal Roberts – 44.96%

John Foster – 39.71%

Breanna Nix – 15.32%

The numbers suggest a close battle between John and Jamal—one driven by heart, the other by hype. Breanna trails in both polls but has certainly made a lasting impression.

Social Media Buzz: A Glimpse at the Momentum
Over the past two weeks, Facebook performance views tell a compelling story:

John Foster – Over 4.2 million views

Jamal Roberts – Around 2.8 million views

Breanna Nix – Just under 800K views

While John leads in the numbers game, Jamal’s recent single “Heal” has sparked an emotional reaction from fans and could give him a powerful last-minute push.

What to Expect on Finale Night
The grand finale isn’t just about crowning a winner—it’s also a full-blown celebration of music! The three-hour event will feature performances from music icons and special guests, including:

Patti LaBelle

Goo Goo Dolls

Good Charlotte

Josh Groban

Jessica Simpson

Salt-N-Pepa

Kirk Franklin

Brandon Lake

The War and Treaty

PJ Morton

Jennifer Holliday

Jelly Roll (Artist in Residence)

Plus, the judges—Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie—will take the stage too. Look out for epic duets like:

Gabby Samone with Jennifer Holliday

Thunderstorm Artis with The War and Treaty

Kolbi Jordan with Patti LaBelle

Final Prediction
While anything can happen live, the momentum points toward John Foster as the likely winner of American Idol 2025. His country charm and massive digital reach make him a fan favorite. Still, Jamal Roberts has the kind of emotional depth and star power that could spark an upset.

Don’t Miss It!
American Idol 2025 Finale
Sunday, May 18
8 PM ET / 5 PM PT
Live on ABC and streaming next day on Hulu

It’s been a season full of talent, growth, and unforgettable moments—now it’s time to crown the next American Idol.