As American Idol Season 23 heads toward its grand finale, John Foster made his way back to Brusly, Louisiana—and his hometown made sure he felt every ounce of love and pride they have for him. Now a national finalist and rising country star at just 18, John’s homecoming was a celebration of roots, resilience, and the music that brought him here.
A Heartfelt Welcome in Brusly
John’s day began with a tearful reunion at Brusly Elementary, where his 4-year-old sister, Presley, ran to greet him. Then it was off to Brusly High School, where he graduated as co-valedictorian just last year. The visit turned into a full-blown pep rally, with hundreds of students, teachers, and fans filling the football field.
Cheers of “Geaux John Foster!” rang out as the school band played and posters waved proudly in the Louisiana sunshine. Teachers wiped away tears, grateful for a moment of joy after a tough stretch for the tight-knit community.
“It’s nice to be in the news for something joyful,” said school secretary Aimee Rabalais.
Recognized at the Capitol
John’s next stop was the Louisiana State Capitol, where lawmakers honored him with a House resolution for representing the heart and soul of his home state. He humbly joked, “Sometimes I think people get tired of hearing me talk about Louisiana”—but the standing ovation that followed made it clear: no one’s tired of John Foster.
A Crawfish Float and a Whole Lot of Love
In Addis, fans lined the streets for a one-of-a-kind parade. John rode through town on a crawfish-themed float, tossing beads and waving to crowds holding homemade signs. One standout banner declared:
“If George Strait is the King of Country, John Foster is the PRINCE!”
As the sun set, thousands gathered at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park for a concert they’ll never forget. Families showed up with lawn chairs, boats lined the water, and the town glowed with pride. John arrived by boat just after 8 p.m. and took the stage with a big grin and a full heart.
A Night of Music, Memories, and Maggie
John delivered a mix of country classics—from “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” to “Neon Moon.” But the moment that left everyone speechless was his emotional performance of his original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” The song, dedicated to his late friends Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, left John in tears mid-verse.
“Sorry about that,” he whispered, voice cracking. “So many emotions.”
He closed the night with Garth Brooks’ “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” as the crowd sang along and fireworks lit the bayou sky. Before sailing away, John formed a heart with his hands and gave a thumbs-up—his way of saying thank you to the town that raised him.
The Final Countdown
John Foster will take the American Idol stage one last time during the Season 23 finale on Sunday, May 19, at 8 PM ET on ABC. Fans can vote up to 30 times during the live show.
No matter the outcome, one thing is certain: Louisiana already sees John Foster as a winner.
