American Idol Season 23 had no shortage of surprises, but one unforgettable moment lit up the finale when semi-finalist Slater Nalley joined Carrie Underwood for a show-stopping performance—only to be blindsided (in the best way) by a surprise guest: Cody Johnson himself.
The trio performed “I’m Gonna Love You,” Underwood’s powerful 2024 duet with Johnson, originally released as the lead single from the deluxe edition of Leather, Johnson’s acclaimed studio album. Though Carrie and Cody have performed the track live before, Sunday night marked a twist: Slater Nalley had no idea Cody was about to walk onstage.
A Moment of Pure Shock and Joy
The performance began with just Carrie and Slater, already a dream duet for the young artist. But as they built toward the final chorus, Carrie paused to casually introduce Cody Johnson, sending the audience—and Slater—into an emotional tailspin.
Slater’s stunned expression said it all. Genuine shock, followed by joy, disbelief, and pure admiration flooded his face as Johnson strode on stage. Trying to keep his composure and finish the song, Slater’s smile gave him away—he was having a once-in-a-lifetime moment, live on national TV.
After the final note, Ryan Seacrest confirmed that Slater had been completely unaware of the surprise. Carrie gracefully stepped aside to let her duet partner and the country star share a heartfelt moment—a handshake and a fan-to-idol exchange that capped off the performance beautifully.
Fans Go Wild Online
Social media lit up instantly.
“The scream I just let out for Cody Johnson 😭 #AmericanIdol,” one fan posted.
“Slater got to sing with Carrie Underwood AND Cody Johnson? Are you kidding me?! That’s a country music jackpot,” another wrote.
Others praised Slater for holding his own onstage with two of country’s most commanding voices:
“Slater was so SHOCKED to see Cody Johnson. Carrie. Cody. Slater. A trio I didn’t know I needed.”
“He kept his cool, delivered the vocals, and lived out every young country singer’s dream in real-time.”
A Career-Making Moment?
For Slater Nalley, the finale performance could become a turning point in his rising career. Sharing the stage with Carrie Underwood is already a major endorsement. Add in a surprise cameo from Cody Johnson—and the grace with which Slater handled the moment—and it’s clear: this Idol semi-finalist is one to watch.
