The highly anticipated “Disney Nights” are finally here on American Idol! This season, the show is doubling the Disney magic with two back-to-back episodes, promising extra doses of excitement for viewers and intense challenges for the contestants.
During Disney Night #1, airing Sunday, May 11 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, the Top 7 will perform beloved Disney classics, with a second episode on Monday, May 12 at the same time featuring the Top 5 finalists. The contestants will work with special guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda, the award-winning songwriter and actor known for his work on Encanto, Moana, and Hamilton.
Monday’s episode will also feature a special performance by American Idol Season 21 winner Iam Tongi, who will sing “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” from Disney’s upcoming Lilo & Stitch remake, set to hit theaters on May 23. Before taking the stage, contestants enjoyed a visit to Disneyland Resort, soaking in the magic of “The Happiest Place on Earth” alongside their families.
The song selections for Disney Night #1 are as magical as ever. Breanna Nix will sing “Reflection” from Mulan, Gabby Samone is taking on “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana, Jamal Roberts will perform “Go the Distance” from Hercules, John Foster is singing “Almost There” from The Princess and the Frog, Mattie Pruitt will perform “Remember Me” from Coco, Slater Nalley is singing “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King, and Thunderstorm Artis will deliver “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas. With such beloved songs in the mix, expectations are sky-high for all performers.
However, as much as the Disney theme brings joy and nostalgia, it also comes with intense pressure. Many contestants have shared candidly about the emotional and physical toll of preparing for back-to-back shows while juggling multiple responsibilities. Several members of the Top 7, especially those who are parents, have opened up on social media about the sheer exhaustion they’re experiencing as they head into one of the most demanding weeks of the season.
Breanna Nix, in particular, shared during an Instagram Live that she’s operating on just three hours of sleep per night as she rehearses for the live shows. “I feel a little bit stressed, just to be honest with you guys,” she said, reflecting on her time at Disneyland with her family. “Even though Disneyland was so fun, it took a couple days off from rehearsals, and now we have four songs to sing Sunday and Monday. \
Then we have the finale right after that. It’s like seven songs that we have to learn.” The challenges don’t stop there. Nix also revealed that a song she had originally prepared was chosen by two other contestants. A drawing was held to resolve the conflict, and after losing, she had to quickly pivot to a completely new track, which she described as “very hard.”
Despite the mounting pressure, each contestant continues to push forward, fueled by passion, perseverance, and the dream of making it to the finale. These Disney Nights will deliver more than just musical magic — they will highlight the dedication, resilience, and heart of every finalist vying for a spot in the Top 5.
