LOS ANGELES, CA — With just three contestants left vying for the American Idol crown, John Foster, the 18-year-old Louisiana native, brought heart, charm, and a touch of home to the Disney-themed episode on May 12, delivering two standout performances that earned rave reviews from the judges and delighted fans across the country.
Foster, who had the chance to visit Disneyland with his fellow finalists, shared how walking through the park’s French Quarter transported him back to his roots in Louisiana. The sentiment set the tone for his first performance of the night, a playful and soulful rendition of “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book.
Starting slow and smooth, Foster smiled mid-performance and turned up the tempo, giving the beloved Disney classic a burst of energy and personality that made the audience clap along. The judges were clearly impressed. Luke Bryan praised him for discovering a style and image that resonates with viewers, calling it a winning combination. Lionel Richie said Foster’s “likability is off the charts,” while Carrie Underwood, this week’s guest judge, said the performance was “just a good time” and praised how Foster refreshed a childhood favorite with his own flair.
For his second performance, Foster chose “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppet Movie, a gentle ballad known for its emotional depth and dreamlike lyrics. Working with guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda, Foster initially leaned toward Willie Nelson’s version of the song. However, Miranda encouraged him to make it his own, urging him to dig into the lyrics and reflect on his personal journey — one where dreams that once seemed distant are now within reach.
With just his acoustic guitar, Foster took center stage, seated on a stool in a stripped-down, heartfelt moment that stood out in the evening’s lineup. Bryan acknowledged the fierce competition but told Foster that his performance was “authentically you,” applauding him for stepping away from imitation and fully embracing his own sound.
Richie was equally complimentary, saying he’s “totally in love with the timber” of Foster’s voice and called him a “true stylist,” pointing out how distinct and recognizable his vocal tone has become. Underwood reflected on her own experience as a young contestant and said that, early on, she saw in Foster a “diamond in the rough.” She shared that she had to convince her fellow judges of his potential, and now, with only one week to go, she offered a bold prediction: “If you’re not careful, you could win this whole thing.”
As Foster now heads into the American Idol finale, his Disney night performances have solidified his place as a front-runner — not just for his vocal talent, but for his authenticity, charm, and emotional connection with the audience. With his hometown rallying behind him and judges singing his praises, the stage is set for a storybook ending.
