In Addis, Louisiana, where Monday’s lunch special at Benoit’s Country Meat Block includes meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, and dessert for just $10.99, something extraordinary is cooking — and it’s not just the gumbo. This small Cajun town has become a hub of pride and celebration, thanks to one of their own: American Idol Top 10 finalist, John Foster.

From Local Favorite to National Spotlight

Tucked just a half-mile from the Mississippi River, Benoit’s isn’t just known for its famous boudin and jerky anymore. It’s now the hometown landmark of a rising star. John Foster Benoit III, known to millions as simply John Foster, has taken the national stage by storm, all while keeping his Louisiana roots close to his heart

At his Idol audition in Nashville, John made sure to bring a little taste of home — literally. He arrived with boudin, beef jerky, and a bottle of Benoit’s signature Cajun seasoning. According to his proud grandmother, Verbie Benoit, even judge Luke Bryan couldn’t resist the flavor, licking the seasoning off his fingers backstage.

Verbie, 75, has packed her suitcase — and her rosary — to join 31 family members in Hollywood to watch her grandson perform live. “I don’t pray for him to win,” she says with a warm smile. “I pray that God is with him.”

Brains, Talent, and Heart — The Full Package

While his vocals have captured the nation, John Foster’s ambitions go far beyond music. A current biology student at LSU, he’s taking classes online while competing on American Idol, with hopes of becoming an oncologist. The former co-valedictorian has long been described as humble, faith-driven, and exceptionally bright.

“One teacher once said he’d be governor,” Verbie laughs. “We used to joke that he’d be president.”

But to everyone back home in Addis, he’s still the same John who used to work holiday shifts behind the meat counter. Longtime Benoit’s employees like Rick Bourgoyne and Blake Sarradet proudly point out that “Foster” is actually his middle name, and that they’ve watched him grow up with strong values, a hardworking spirit, and music in his blood — thanks to his uncle, local musician Gaylen Martin.

The Town That Raised a Star

Even new employees like Regina DeBenedetto have caught the Idol fever. “I voted 30 times,” she says with pride. “He listens. He learns. And when he steps on that stage — he delivers.”

In a world where viral fame often fades fast, John Foster stands out for the qualities that truly last — authenticity, faith, humility, and raw talent. Whether he takes home the American Idol crown or continues his journey in medicine, his hometown is already convinced: he’s the real deal.

As they say in Louisiana, he’s got all the right ingredients — and just enough Cajun spice to win America’s heart.