The American Idol Season 23 finale kicked off with a bang as finalists John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix teamed up for a goosebump-inducing performance of Queen’s “We Are the Champions.” Their voices soared, their harmonies blended beautifully, and their presence filled the stage—setting the tone for a truly unforgettable night.
Fans watching the live show on May 18, 2025, were treated to a vocal masterclass. From powerhouse notes to emotional delivery, the trio made it clear why they’d made it this far out of over 120,000 hopefuls.
Judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie looked on with admiration, clearly impressed by the finalists’ ability to put their own spin on such a legendary anthem. The performance wasn’t just a tribute to Queen—it was a celebration of their own incredible journeys.
As the three-hour finale unfolded, so did the tension. With live voting underway, fans had a short window to support their favorite contestant before host Ryan Seacrest revealed the first big result of the night.
After a lively group medley with Salt-N-Pepa and the top 14 female contestants, the moment arrived. Seacrest brought the finalists center stage to announce who would be finishing in third place. The room held its breath as he announced Breanna Nix’s name.
While the news was emotional, Nix’s grace and gratitude shone through. With cheers from the audience and love pouring in online, it was clear her Idol story had only just begun.
The rest of the night saw John Foster and Jamal Roberts go head-to-head in one of the most exciting finales the show has seen. Both brought their A-game, keeping fans—and the judges—on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the final result.
No matter the outcome, this trio’s championship-worthy performance reminded everyone why they fell in love with American Idol in the first place—powerful voices, real stories, and magical moments shared on a national stage.
