Less than two weeks after finishing as the runner-up on American Idol Season 23, John Foster had another reason to celebrate—this time, off stage. On May 28, the rising country star marked one year with his girlfriend, Brooklyn Bourque, and shared a heartfelt tribute to her on Instagram.
“It’s been an amazing year and you’ve been beside me every step of the way,” Foster wrote, adding a sweet photo of the couple from their Memorial Day Weekend getaway. “Happy 1 year anniversary. I love you so much.”
Bourque has been a constant presence in Foster’s Idol journey, appearing in the audience for multiple live shows and cheering him on from backstage. Over the holiday weekend, she continued her support by joining him at Cajun Country Jam—his first official post-Idol gig. She even posted a clip of Foster lighting up the stage, showing just how proud she is of his rising career.
And it’s only the beginning. Foster has a busy June lined up, starting with a collaborative Nashville show on June 4, featuring fellow Season 23 contestants and Idol alumni. But the biggest moment comes just a few days later—on June 7, he’ll make his long-awaited debut at the Grand Ole Opry.
“The first time I went to the Opry, I fought back tears because I was so overwhelmed with joy,” Foster shared with fans. “As an amateur country music historian, there is no more significant place to my passion than the Grand Ole Opry. This has been my #1 dream ever since I started music, and now, because of your support, my dream will come true! I will NEVER be able to express my gratitude! Glory be to God!”
Foster’s deep love for country music, paired with his humble roots and heartfelt performances, have made him one of the most beloved Idol contestants in recent memory. During the competition, his emotional rendition of “I Cross My Heart” dedicated to Bourque melted hearts nationwide, and his honesty about their relationship quickly turned them into a fan-favorite couple.
While Foster gears up for the next chapter in his music career, Idol winner Jamal Roberts is also making waves. His debut single, a soulful rendition of Tom Odell’s “Heal,” has already climbed to No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel chart and No. 2 on the all-genre Digital Sales chart—solidifying both finalists as rising stars with powerful momentum.
From heartfelt tributes and anniversary celebrations to Opry debuts and chart-topping singles, it’s clear: the stars of American Idol Season 23 aren’t just surviving post-show—they’re thriving.Tools
