In a moment that tugged at the heartstrings of country music fans everywhere, Reba McEntire did more than just cheer on American Idol runner-up John Foster—she gave him a piece of her story.
Shortly after the Season 23 finale, John received an unexpected package that left him completely speechless: Reba’s personal, custom-worn cowboy hat and a well-loved vintage acoustic guitar from the 1970s—one she played in the early days of her career, long before she became a household name.
Tucked inside was a handwritten note from the country legend herself:
“Play with heart. Wear it with pride. And let both remind you that greatness comes from staying true to who you are.”
John, only 18, shared his emotional reaction on Instagram with a photo of the gifts, writing:
“To be seen by someone like Reba—someone I grew up listening to and look up to so much—is something I’ll never forget. Thank you for believing in me.”
A True Passing of the Torch
Throughout the season, John won over millions with his honest, soul-baring performances. Though he didn’t take home the Idol crown, his ability to connect through music made him a standout—and clearly, Reba felt the same.
“She reminds me of myself when I was just getting started,” Reba said in a statement. “He’s got heart, grit, and a gift that can’t be taught. This was my way of saying: keep going.”
The moment has since gone viral, drawing praise from fellow country stars.
Kelsea Ballerini posted, “Reba passing the torch like that? CHILLS.”
Luke Bryan added, “This kid’s the real deal—and Reba knows it.”
More Than a Gift—It’s Country Music History
Reba’s guitar, worn with time and love, has been part of her journey for decades. Her iconic cowboy hat, sweat-stained and sun-creased, has seen barroom stages and big-time arenas. Now, both are with John Foster—a rising artist whose journey is just beginning.
“This isn’t just memorabilia,” said music journalist Dana Kingsley. “This is Reba saying, I believe in you. It’s a powerful moment in country music.”
A Bright Future Ahead
From the very beginning, John Foster’s Idol journey stood out—not for flash, but for feeling. He made audiences cry, reflect, and cheer with performances that felt deeply personal. And now, with Reba’s blessing and support from fans and artists alike, the path ahead looks promising.
“I just want to make music that means something,” John recently said. “That’s what Reba’s always done. If I can do even a fraction of that, I’ll be proud.”
With his debut EP already in the works and the hashtag #FosterRising taking off, fans are rallying behind him—and so is a country music legend.
As John strums Reba’s old guitar and wears her iconic hat, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a gift. It’s the start of something special.
And country music? It just found its next great storyteller.
