The Final Countdown: ‘American Idol’ Reveals Top 3 as Luke Bryan Shares His ‘Gut Feeling’ About Who Might Win
The pressure is on and the spotlight is burning bright as American Idol barrels toward its epic Season Finale — and the Top 3 contestants have officially been crowned. With only days left until one rising star claims the title, judge Luke Bryan is trusting his instincts.
In a candid group interview on Monday, May 12, the country superstar opened up about his front-runner prediction — and he didn’t mince words.
“My gut has told me Jamal [Roberts] has had the lead all year,” said Bryan, 48. “He’s been consistent, he’s been commanding… he’s had the reins.”
But in classic Idol fashion, it’s still anyone’s game.
Bryan added, “Breanne [Nix] just keeps coming back stronger — she surprises us every week. And John Foster? He’s picking up serious steam. Momentum like his can be a game-changer.”
Still, the judges know it’s not just about talent — it’s about timing, tenacity, and the all-important public vote.
“You can’t afford to lose focus for even a second,” Bryan warned. “This is the music business. Every day counts.”
Fellow judge Lionel Richie echoed the sentiment but emphasized the power of likability in a winner’s journey.
“It’s not necessarily the best singer who wins,” said Richie, 75. “It’s who the fans connect with — who they’re rooting for not just as an artist, but as a person.”
Richie emphasized that while covers have gotten them this far, the true test begins after the show: “When they drop their first original single, that’s when their real careers begin. Right now, America is falling in love with who they are.”
The Road to the Finale
Monday’s episode brought heartbreak for Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis, who were eliminated just shy of the Top 3. That leaves Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanne Nix to battle it out for the crown on Sunday.
Carrie Underwood — Idol royalty herself and the 2005 champion — offered her own words of wisdom.
“They’ve had a much shorter season than I did,” the “Before He Cheats” singer said. “Everything’s moving at lightning speed, and I’m sure they feel like they’re sprinting just to keep up.”
Underwood likened the finale experience to “star boot camp.”
“This is just a taste of the real world as an artist,” she said. “They’ll be running nonstop — returning home, performing, promoting — and the pressure only grows from here.”
The Season Finale promises to be nothing short of explosive. Joining the stage will be an all-star lineup of performers, including:
- Brandon Lake
- Goo Goo Dolls
- Good Charlotte
- Jennifer Holliday
- Jessica Simpson
- Josh Groban
- Kirk Franklin
- Myles Smith
- Patti LaBelle
- Salt-N-Pepa
Plus, judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood will share the stage in a rare and unforgettable group performance. Artist-in-residence Jelly Roll will also bring his signature energy for a special set.
Tune in for the grand finale of American Idol on Sunday, May 18 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC — where talent meets tenacity, and America crowns its next superstar.
