In the small town of Addis, Louisiana, Benoit’s Country Meat Block is known for its hearty plate lunches—meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, and dessert for just $10.99. But lately, it’s also become the home of something extra special: a sense of pride, thanks to John Foster, the rising “American Idol” star. Just half a mile from the Mississippi River, this family-owned Cajun shop is buzzing with excitement as one of their own takes the national stage.
John’s Louisiana roots run deep, with family ties to Church Point and Lawtell. He even brought a taste of home to his Idol audition in Nashville—boudin, jerky, and Benoit’s signature seasoning. According to his grandmother, Verbie Benoit, Luke Bryan was so taken with the seasoning that he couldn’t stop licking it off his fingers backstage. Verbie, who’s 75, never imagined this kind of national attention but says John continues to amaze her. She’s now heading to Hollywood with 31 family members to cheer him on in the Top 10, praying not for him to win, but for God’s presence in his journey.
Despite his growing fame, John stays grounded. He’s a biology student at LSU, studying online while chasing his dreams. A former co-valedictorian, he’s not only smart and talented but, as his grandmother lovingly says, “a good Christian boy.” One teacher even predicted he’d be governor one day, and the family jokes he might just be president.
At Benoit’s, long-time employees like Rick Bourgoyne and Blake Sarradet proudly point out that “Foster” is actually John’s middle name—his full name is John Foster Benoit III. They’ve watched him grow up, working holidays at the shop, and credit his musical start to his uncle, local musician Gaylen Martin. Newer employees like Regina DeBenedetto are just as invested, voting for him 30 times and encouraging others to do the same. “He listens, he learns, and he brings it on stage,” she says.
Whether John becomes a star or a doctor, one thing’s for sure—he’s got the right ingredients for success: talent, humility, and a sprinkle of Cajun spice.
