With just two weeks left before the American Idol Season 23 finale, the competition has hit its most intense phase yet. The Top 7 contestants are facing high-pressure performances, lightning-fast turnarounds, and emotional goodbyes—all while experiencing a historic first: Disney Week at Disneyland Resort.
What Happened on May 5: A Shocking Elimination and the Top 7 Reveal
During the live broadcast on Sunday, May 5, host Ryan Seacrest announced the six contestants who secured America’s votes (listed in no particular order):
- Slater Nalley
- Gabby Samone
- Breanna Nix
- Thunderstorm Artis
- Jamal Roberts
- John Foster
That left Mattie Pruitt and Josh King in the bottom two. After a tense deliberation, judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie used their one save of the season to keep 16-year-old Pruitt in the competition, bringing a heartfelt end to Josh King’s run.
Disney Week Begins: A Historic Idol First
Immediately after Sunday’s episode, the Top 7 were flown directly to Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, as revealed during Jamal Roberts’s late-night Facebook Live stream. The iconic setting will host a special two-night Disney-themed event, marking the first time American Idol has staged back-to-back shows from the resort.
The shows will air on:
- Sunday, May 11
- Monday, May 12
Serving as the guest mentor for the Disney event is none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda, the award-winning creator behind Hamilton, Moana, and Encanto. He will coach contestants through their performances and appear live on the May 12 episode.
“I know my way around a Disney song,” Miranda said in a sneak peek. “And I’m here to help.”
Special Performance from Iam Tongi
Season 21 winner Iam Tongi will return to the Idol stage on May 12 for a special performance of “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride,” featured in the upcoming live-action Lilo & Stitch film, set to release on May 23.
How and When to Vote
Fan voting will be crucial in the next two episodes:
Sunday, May 11:
- All 7 contestants will perform Disney classics
- Voting opens during the live show and remains open for under two hours
- Two contestants will be eliminated, narrowing the field to the Top 5
Monday, May 12:
- The Top 5 perform two songs each, one likely from the Disney catalog and one personal choice
- Based on the votes from this night, the Top 3 finalists will be revealed
Fans can vote through:
- The American Idol app
- Text messaging
- The official American Idol website
Finalists Will Head Home Before the Grand Finale
As is tradition, the Top 3 will each return to their hometowns for emotional celebrations, complete with family reunions, local parades, and special homecoming performances.
The Season 23 Finale: What to Expect
- The grand finale airs Sunday, May 18 at 8 PM ET/PT on ABC
- The winner will be crowned Monday, May 19 during a live, star-studded event featuring surprise performances and major announcements
Why This Season Stands Out
From powerhouse vocals and unexpected twists to Disney magic and mentorship from one of the most respected creators in entertainment, Season 23 is shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable in American Idol history.
Whether you’ve been following all season or are just tuning in, now is the time to cast your vote and support your favorites. The journey to crown the next American Idol is nearly over—and the final chapter promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
