Disney Night on American Idol roared back to life on May 12 with all the magic, music, and emotion fans could ask for. With a coveted spot in the Top 3 on the line, the remaining five contestants — Slater Nalley, John Foster, Thunderstorm Artis, Breanna Nix, and Jamal Roberts — returned to the stage at Disneyland Resort to deliver one more round of performances. Themed around heroes and villains, the night featured appearances from Disney royalty, including a special cameo by Hamilton mastermind Lin-Manuel Miranda. As America voted live, the tension mounted. Who would rise to the occasion, and who would fall just short of the finale?
Slater Nalley
Slater Nalley opened the show with “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story. Without his guitar this time, the 18-year-old from Atlanta looked relaxed and ready to play. Carrie Underwood called it a “fun way to kick things off,” while Lionel Richie praised his growth, telling him, “Son, you’ve come a long way.” Luke Bryan noted how Nalley is learning how to play the Idol game and said it was one of his favorite versions of the Disney staple.
John Foster
John Foster was up next with a playful and crowd-pleasing take on “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book. The Louisiana native, who has made a habit of blending charm with consistency, had all three judges smiling. Carrie said the performance was just “a good time,” while Lionel emphasized the importance of likability. Luke complimented Foster’s full package, saying, “You’ve got a thing, you’ve got a look, you’ve got a sound.”
Thunderstorm Artis
Then came Thunderstorm Artis, who brought his signature heart and vulnerability to “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella. Carrie told him the song fit perfectly, saying, “You don’t do too much or too little.” Lionel was quick to say he “knocked it out of the park,” while Luke was nearly speechless, calling it one of those perfect moments that define the show.
Breanna Nix
Breanna Nix followed with the Natalie Cole classic “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” featured in The Parent Trap. Carrie noted a slight hesitation in the first half of the performance and encouraged her to relax and enjoy her next one. Lionel said the pressure of this stage is real and part of her future, while Luke appreciated the challenge of the song’s quick notes and praised her unique vibe.
Finally, Jamal Roberts took everyone to church with a soaring, soulful rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” channeling the Remember the Titans spirit. Carrie reminded him that while his voice is undeniable, she wanted to see more stage movement and engagement. Lionel, ever the poet, said, “You have the ability to Jamal-orize everything — you could take ‘Three Blind Mice’ and make it soulful.” Luke reflected on Roberts’ journey, saying he watched the original audition that morning and was blown away by how far he’s come.
With the performances wrapped, it was time for the most nerve-wracking moment of the night. Ryan Seacrest, as always, dimmed the lights as America’s votes determined who would make it to the Season 23 finale. After two powerful Disney-themed nights, only three would advance. The stakes have never been higher — and the magic of Idol has never felt more real.
