Season 23 of American Idol has officially wrapped, and Jamal Roberts is your 2025 winner! But while fans erupted with excitement at the announcement, many couldn’t help but focus on a curious moment during the live finale — specifically, the reaction of runner-up John Foster.
On the night of May 18, the final two contestants — Jamal and John — stood side by side as host Ryan Seacrest prepared to reveal the name inside the envelope. The tension was thick. As the camera panned between the two hopefuls, fans caught a subtle moment that’s now fueling some wild speculation online.
When Ryan called out Jamal’s name, the crowd went wild. John, meanwhile, appeared composed — almost too composed, some say.
“@officialjamalroberts WINS #AmericanIdol!!! 🎉,” read the triumphant Instagram caption from American Idol’s official page.
But eagle-eyed viewers noticed something interesting in the lead-up to that moment. As the envelope was held up, it seemed John might have caught a glimpse of the winner’s name before it was officially announced.
“You can see when John Foster looks over and sees that he’s not the winner! Just look at his reaction!” one fan commented.
“John saw the name on the card. That must have been tough 😢,” said another.
Was it a spoiler in real-time, or just nerves and misinterpretation?
John Foster himself cleared the air in an interview with TV Insider, saying he didn’t see a thing.
“I was in a total blur,” he said. “I knew I was at peace with being runner-up. Jamal is such an incredible performer. I was at peace. I really was. It’s a true honor to be runner-up.”
And true to his humble, grounded persona, John later took to Instagram to reflect on his Idol experience with grace and gratitude.
“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends,” he wrote. “I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart – times a million. 🙏❤️.”
A Star in His Own Right — No Label, No Limits
Despite finishing second, John Foster’s star power is undeniable. Each week, he wowed audiences with soulful country performances, including a heartfelt rendition of Randy Travis’ “I Told You So.” And while rumors swirled that he had a record deal lined up — or even a family connection to country legend Dwight Yoakam — John set the record straight.
“I’m not related to Dwight Yoakam, nor am I currently signed under any record label,” he clarified in a Facebook post back in April. “There was some misinformation that Dwight Yoakam signed me under Sugar Hill Records.”
Louisiana’s Favorite Son
Back home, John Foster Benoit III is nothing short of a local legend. During his May 14 hometown visit to Addis, Louisiana, he was greeted like a hero. Billboards, posters, and road signs celebrated his American Idol journey, with support pouring in from neighboring towns like Brusly, Port Allen, and Baton Rouge.
And it’s no wonder — John made sure to represent his roots from day one. When he first auditioned, he showed up with coolers full of Cajun treats from his family’s business, Benoit’s Country Meat Block, for the judges.
According to The Advocate, John had a huge cheering section throughout the competition, with dozens of family members flying out to L.A. for each round. His story isn’t just about music — it’s about faith, family, and staying true to where you come from.
“My hometown visit was proof that even if I were eliminated at number 3, I would forever have a place in the industry somewhere,” he told WBRZ.
“I’ve been saying since I won the golden ticket that I feel like I’ve already won,” he added. “To think that I’ve continued to progress, all the way up to the top three, is amazing.”
The Curtain Falls, but the Journey Continues
While Jamal Roberts rightfully took home the crown, John Foster left the American Idol stage with more than just applause — he left with a legacy. With a voice rooted in country tradition and a heart full of Louisiana pride, his journey is just beginning.
And something tells us… this is far from the last we’ll hear of John Foster.
