After narrowing down from over 120,000 hopefuls, American Idol’s Season 23 finale kicked off on May 18, 2025, with only three contestants left standing: John Foster, Breanna Nix, and Jamal Roberts. The stakes were sky-high as the trio prepared to perform live for millions of viewers and the celebrity judging panel—Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie.
Each finalist had less than three hours to win over the audience before early voting closed. Midway through the live show, host Ryan Seacrest would announce who landed in third place, adding extra urgency to every note sung and every vote cast. With EntertainmentNow providing real-time updates, fans tuned in for a night packed with high-energy performances, emotional tributes, and fierce competition.
Season 23 Finale: First-Hour Highlights
The show kicked off with an epic group performance of Queen’s “We Are the Champions,” featuring the Top 3 finalists joined by the rest of the Top 14. Ryan Seacrest then introduced the judging trio, who were dressed to impress—Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan in sharp tuxedos, and Carrie Underwood dazzling in a golden gown.
John Foster
Mentored by Jelly Roll, 18-year-old John Foster chose Toby Keith’s patriotic anthem “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)”—a bold pick with deep personal meaning. During rehearsals, Foster talked about the overwhelming support he’s received from across the country and shared his desire to honor his military veteran grandfathers, who were seated in the audience.
Foster commanded the stage with confidence and heartfelt intensity, earning a standing ovation from all three judges. Richie called the song choice “perfect,” even joking that Foster looked ready for political office. Underwood told him she was “so proud” of how far he’s come, and Bryan noted how much Foster’s voice and confidence have evolved since his first audition. Wrapping up his performance, Foster looked into the camera and said, “It would be the absolute honor of a lifetime if they think this little ‘ol boy from Louisiana could be the next American Idol.”
Jamal Roberts
Jelly Roll also mentored 27-year-old Jamal Roberts, who was inspired to perform Teeks’ soulful ballad “First Time.” Jelly Roll recounted seeing Roberts perform the song on TikTok in 2024 and admitted to tearing up during rehearsal as the stay-at-home dad brought his full heart to the stage.
Dressed in a sleek white suit, Roberts began his performance by walking past the audience, shaking hands and flashing his signature smile. His smooth, rich vocals filled the studio, and by the end, the crowd was on its feet. All three judges rose to applaud his emotional delivery. The moment was a perfect example of Roberts’ journey—from an unassuming physical education teacher in Mississippi to a confident, captivating performer vying for the Idol crown.
