After months of fierce competition and more than 120,000 hopefuls, American Idol’s Season 23 finale came down to just three remarkable voices: John Foster, Breanna Nix, and Jamal Roberts. The live three-hour broadcast on May 18, 2025, was nothing short of legendary — packed with raw emotion, record-breaking votes, and jaw-dropping performances that captivated millions.

As the finalists took the stage one last time, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Viewers had just three hours to cast their votes and help crown the next American Idol.

First Round Recap: Music, Emotions & Powerful Dedications

The finale opened with all three contestants performing Queen’s iconic anthem “We Are the Champions” alongside the Top 14, setting the tone for a powerful night ahead. Judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie were introduced in full glam — Bryan and Richie in sharp tuxedos, Underwood glowing in a golden gown.

John Foster – “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” by Toby Keith

Chosen by mentor Jelly Roll, 18-year-old John Foster performed Toby Keith’s patriotic classic. Before taking the stage, Foster emotionally shared how much nationwide support has meant to him and his family. His performance earned a full standing ovation from all three judges.

“That was the perfect song,” Richie declared, joking that Foster might be ready to run for office.Underwood beamed, saying, “I’m so proud of you for pulling out all the stops.”

Bryan noted a total transformation: “From your confidence to your voice — you’re a different artist.”

Foster dedicated the performance to military veterans, including his grandfathers seated proudly in the audience. He closed with a heartfelt line:

“It would be the absolute honor of a lifetime if America thinks this little ol’ boy from Louisiana could be the next American Idol.”

Jamal Roberts – “First Time” by Teeks

Jelly Roll remembered discovering Roberts on TikTok singing Teeks’ “First Time” and became visibly emotional hearing him rehearse it again. Dressed in an elegant white suit, the 27-year-old father of three delivered a soulful and magnetic performance that had fans reaching out and judges on their feet.

“You are just so talented,” said Underwood.Bryan playfully asked, “Can you teach me how to be that smooth?”

Richie praised his storytelling ability: “You don’t think it — you feel it. And we feel you.”

Roberts’ joy was contagious, smiling more than ever. “I’m excited!” he told Seacrest after his performance, and viewers felt it too.

Breanna Nix – “In Jesus Name (God of Possible)” by Katy Nichole

For Breanna Nix, the night took a spiritual turn. Jelly Roll chose the emotional ballad, citing how her faith had “anchored” her throughout the season. Nix revealed struggles her family had faced, and during rehearsals, both she and Jelly Roll were brought to tears.

As she sang, cameras caught a tender moment: her four-year-old son, Emerson, fast asleep in Underwood’s lap — just like during her audition months ago. It was a full-circle moment that melted hearts across the country.

“Your vulnerability has inspired so many,” said Jelly Roll.
Underwood added, “You were born for this.”

A Finale That Moved America

As Ryan Seacrest announced live vote results and performances unfolded, fans across the country took to social media, sharing their support, tears, and excitement. With record-breaking votes cast and every contestant delivering career-defining moments, this finale is already being called one of the most emotional and unforgettable in Idol history.

American Idol 2025 Season Finale: Round 2 Highlights Recap

Following a brief intermission, the live finale resumed with heartwarming footage from each of the Top 3 finalists’ hometown visits. From family reunions and fan meet-and-greets to lively parades and emotional concerts, the show captured unforgettable moments before each contestant returned to the Idol stage for their second performance of the night. These final numbers will help determine who finishes in third place before America casts its deciding votes.

JOHN FOSTER

Back in Addis, Louisiana, John Foster revisited his roots, including an emotional stop at his former high school where he reunited with the mother of his late friend, Maggie Dunn. The two shared memories of Maggie, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2022. John revealed that his original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” was written the same day she died — a song he recently released with American Idol ahead of the finale.

Later that evening, during a packed hometown concert, Foster performed the song as hundreds held up lights in tribute to Maggie. Overwhelmed with emotion, he broke down onstage. The broadcast then returned to the studio where Foster delivered a heartfelt rendition of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” The judges rose to their feet in applause. Lionel Richie was amazed by Foster’s maturity and talent, reminding everyone he’s just 18. Carrie Underwood smiled and said, “Leave it to the country boy to have the most epic hometown welcome.” Luke Bryan praised his performance as “beautifully executed” and couldn’t help but laugh about the massive crawfish float Foster rode during his parade.

JAMAL ROBERTS

Jamal Roberts’ return to Meridian, Mississippi, was filled with love and life-changing moments. He met his newborn daughter for the first time and shared time with his older girls. At Crestwood Elementary, where he teaches P.E., Jamal surprised his students and spent the day celebrating with them, promising that he’d still be part of their lives no matter the outcome of the competition.

Roberts also enjoyed a family cookout before being honored at a parade and concert that drew an estimated 20,000 attendees. Reflecting on his journey, he told producers his mission was to “spread love, peace, and unity” in his community.

Back in the Idol studio, he took on The Temptations’ classic “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me),” infusing it with soul and charisma. Carrie Underwood praised his talent for making classics feel new again, while Luke Bryan marveled, “From teaching kids in a classroom to performing like this? You’re truly one of the most incredible people I’ve seen on this show.” Lionel Richie, with a wink, said that despite being “200 years old,” Jamal still managed to surprise him — calling him a once-in-a-lifetime artist with divine purpose.

BREANNA NIX

Returning to Denton, Texas, gave Breanna Nix a moment to reflect on how far she’s come. She called American Idol the greatest experience of her life — second only to becoming a mother. Her visit included a glamorous ride in a pink limousine and stops around town, including an ice cream shop that created a flavor just for her.

At a family reunion hosted by her sister, Nix recalled her struggles and how grateful she felt to now be in a better place. Local moms treated her to a “mommy makeover” as a thank-you for being a role model. Nix admitted that when she first left Denton, she felt like “a nobody,” but now knows in her heart that she is “more than enough.”

Back on the Idol stage, she performed Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb,” earning a standing ovation. Luke Bryan called it a flawless performance that gave him chills, saying, “You just took me on a journey — what an incredible moment!” Lionel Richie echoed the praise, saying the song choice and delivery were both perfect. Carrie Underwood called Nix “a beautiful, powerful inspiration” and said no one could watch that performance and not feel deeply moved.