After a dramatic night of performances and a staggering 19 million votes cast, American Idol has officially revealed its Top 3 finalists: Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix. As they prepare for the biggest performances of their lives, the trio will first be celebrated with hometown parades and concerts on May 14 — a cherished Idol tradition.
With the Season 23 finale just days away, the finalists will momentarily shift their focus from the stage to their communities, where they’ll be honored by friends, family, and hometown fans before returning to Los Angeles for the live two-night finale event on May 18 and 19.
Jamal Roberts: A Hero’s Welcome in Meridian, Mississippi
Jamal Roberts, 27, has captured the hearts of viewers nationwide with his soulful voice and emotional performances. Known by his school district as “America’s Favorite P.E. Teacher,” Roberts is a physical education instructor at Crestwood Elementary in Meridian, Mississippi.
The city is rallying around their hometown hero with a parade beginning at 5:30 p.m., starting at the Lauderdale County Courthouse and concluding at City Hall. Roberts is slated to perform a mini-concert following the procession. Cameras from American Idol are expected to film his return to Crestwood Elementary, adding to what’s sure to be an emotional reunion.
Breanna Nix: Sweet Celebrations in Denton, Texas
Hailing from Denton, Texas, 25-year-old Breanna Nix has consistently impressed judges and fans with her powerful country vocals and down-to-earth charm. The city of Denton is pulling out all the stops to celebrate her success.
Festivities will begin early with a 9 a.m. meet-and-greet at Beth Marie’s Ice Cream Shop, where a new flavor inspired by Nix will be unveiled in her honor. A parade around the city square will begin at 4:30 p.m., with Nix taking the stage for a concert at 7 p.m. as the city cheers her on ahead of the finale.
John Foster: Louisiana Roots Run Deep
At just 18 years old, John Foster has earned widespread acclaim for his heartfelt ballads and distinctive vocal tone. Representing Addis, Louisiana, Foster is expected to receive a warm welcome from his hometown of 7,000.
A parade in his honor will begin at 5 p.m., followed by a 7:30 p.m. mini-concert at Waterfront Park in nearby Plaquemine. Foster’s journey from small-town dreamer to national finalist has resonated deeply with fans across the country, and his hometown is eager to celebrate.
The Road to the Finale
Once the hometown celebrations conclude, the Top 3 will return to Los Angeles to prepare for their final performances on May 18. Each contestant will sing for America’s vote one last time during the live two-hour competition episode, after which the winner will be determined based on real-time voting.
In addition to rehearsals, the finalists will begin recording their debut singles, which will be released through American Idol’s partner label, 19 Entertainment.
A Star-Studded Grand Finale
On Monday, May 19, American Idol will air a three-hour live finale featuring not only the announcement of the winner, but a dazzling lineup of celebrity performers and judge collaborations.
Scheduled performers include:
- Brandon Lake
- Goo Goo Dolls
- Good Charlotte
- Jennifer Holliday
- Jessica Simpson
- Josh Groban (guest mentor)
- Kirk Franklin
- Myles Smith
- Patti LaBelle
- Salt-N-Pepa
The evening will also feature a special performance from judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, as well as a live set from American Idol’s artist-in-residence, Jelly Roll. Additionally, all Top 14 contestants have returned to Los Angeles to take part in ensemble performances throughout the show.
As the journey comes to a close, American Idol Season 23 promises to end on a high note — filled with music, celebration, and the crowning of the next American music star. Will it be Jamal, John, or Breanna? The nation will decide.
