American Idol 2025 Finale Winner Revealed: Either Breanna Nix, Jamal Roberts or John Foster will win it all!
American Idol 2025 crowns a season 23 winner tonight (May 19). The Top 3–Breanna Nix, Jamal Roberts and John Foster–sing one last time for America’s vote!
American Idol 2025 Finale Top 3 Contestant Song Spoilers
American Idol 2025 Top 3 Drop New Singles Ahead of Season 23 Finale
American Idol 2025 Winner Prediction, Final Rankings, Facebook Views
VOTE!
American Idol will broadcast LIVE COAST TO COAST. Fans can vote for their favorites in REAL TIME. But act fast. After the Top 3 perform TWICE, a contestant will be eliminated. About midway through the show it may be too late to save your favorite. Vote 10 times each on the phone app, americanidol.com website or text the contestant number to 21523. TEN TIMES PER METHOD FOR A TOTAL OF 30 VOTES. Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan serve as judges. Ryan Seacrest hosts.
Guest stars
A slew of celebrities will sing duets and more with members of the Top 14. Performing on the three hour finale, and alongside the contestants will be Patti LaBelle, Good Charlotte, Goo Goo Dolls, Josh Groban, Brandon Lake, Jessica Simpson, Salt N Pepa, Myles Smith, Kirk Franklin, The War and Treaty, PJ Morton and Jennifer Holliday. Plus, Artist in Residence Jelly Roll, and judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie will take the stage.
The Top 3 open the show sing Queen’s We Are the Champions
John Foster takes the stage first, followed by Jamal Roberts and then Breanna Nix. The trio manage to meld their disparate styles reasonably well. John’s range is lower than Jamal’s, it appears. Host Ryan Seacrest greets them on the stage afterward. THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL.
For the first round of two, Artist in Residence Jelly Roll chose songs for the Top 3 based on a list they submitted to him.
John Foster – Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American) by Toby Keith
Yeah. Jelly Roll purposely picked this song for John. “These are my people,” John tells Jelly, referring to the types of folks motivated by this highly political song choice. OK then. The late Toby Keith wrote this ra-ra “patriotic” song shortly after the 9/11 attacks in 2001. Started typing something….and then I stopped. I’ll leave it with a choice quote from the song: “We’ll put a boot in your a– it’s the American Way.” Hm. He finishes the song with a “God Bless America!” Pander much.
Lionel says, “That’s the way you run for off…” He jokes but gets it. Carrie is so proud of him. Luke nods to his growth and disposition. John dedicates the song to his grandfathers and other veterans. Text 13 to 21523
Jamal Roberts – First TIme by Teeks
Jelly picked the song for Jamal after watching the singer’s version on TikTok. He compares Jamal to Carrie Underwood, Ruben Studdard and Fantasia. PALATE CLEANSER. Jamal’s rendition of “First Time” is sweet and smooth and so soulful. His runs are well place and UNEXPECTED. He does his own thing, always.
Carrie says, “You are so talented. You look so comfortable and at ease. It sounds so good.” Luke says, “Will you teach me how to be that smooth?” He loves Jamal’s look. “Everything about you is a star.” Lionel jokes, “This brother is not thinking about it.” He loves the way Jamal “navigates the story.” Text 12 to 21523
Breanna Nix – In Jesus Name (God of Possible) by Katy Nichols
The singer shares about the dark moments in her life. Jelly admires her vulnerability and considers it her superpower. Breanna keeps pushing ahead for her husband and son. Quite possibly, Breanna has a successful CCM/Gospel career ahead of her. It’s when she sings about God that she brings the most feeling and heart to the stage. Couple that with her incredible pipes and massive range. She’s got all the ingredients for a solid music career. Aw. Her son is sleeping on a stool in front of the audience. Not sure I love the boy being used as a prop, though (feel the same way about the other kids too).
Luke calls her “amazingly solid.” He adds, “You have such a special heart…you’re amazing.” Lionel says, “This has turned into a slugfest.” He believes all three have a career ahead in their own lane. “Stay on your path,” he advises. Carrie loves that the singer is honest about her faith. Jokey Ryan asks questions, laying on a hammock next to the boy.
Next, the Top 3 pick songs to represent their hometowns, which they visited earlier last week. A video package edited with clips from their special day back home runs before the singers take the stage to sing.
John Foster – Take Me Home Country Roads by John Denver
John headed back home to Louisiana. First, he stopped by his little sister’s elementary school followed by a visit to his high school. His favorite teacher spoke to the crowd. Next, he visits a cemetery. His friends died in a tragic car accident. John confesses to being homesick. His parade float is a crazy giant crawfish. Hilarious. John calls it the greatest day of his life. He ends the night singing “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” written in honor of his late friends. He breaks down and cries.
I have a huge soft spot for John Denver songs. “Country Roads” is one of my favorites, and a perfect song choice for John’s style and to celebrate a beloved hometown. He gets the audience clapping along with him. Easy breezy.
Lionel says, “Vote Vote Vote.” Carrie calls his hometown “amazing.” adding “great song choice.” Luke calls his hometown piece “beautifully done.” He adds, “I’ve never seen a crawfish that big.” Ryan calls John a “fine man.”
Jamal Roberts – Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me) by The Temptations
During his hometown visit to Meridian, Mississippi, Jamal states that he wants his THREE daughters to look up to him. He visits his hometown elementary school. It’s a huge surprise for the kids. He teaches Phys Ed at the school, and says no matter what happens he’ll always be their coach. Next is a parade. The singer wants to bring peace, love and unity to the town. Lots of folks from Meridian struggle. Jamal performs in front of a huge crowd at the end of the day.
This classic song is a Temptations classic. While he stays to the spirit of the original arrangement, he manages to add his own sauce. It’s slightly less melancholy. It’s like he believes that although the object of his affection loves another, he may STILL be able to get her. The runs and adlibs are one of a kind.
Carrie believes he can sing anything. “You make things your own.” Luke says, “This show is getting me tonight!” Lionel says, “I’m 200 years old. You are divinely guided.” Lionel begs folks to vote. He still had his mama’s kiss on his cheek.
Breanna Nix – The Climb by Miley Cyrus
Back in Denton Texas, Breanna embarks on her big day in a pink limousine. She arrives at an ice cream store where they announce a new flavor “Nix fix.” Next they head to her sister’s house. She chats with sis and her mom. “You’re my American Idol,” Breanna says. There was a time she felt like a nobody, but since then, so much has changed. Next, a mommy makeover for Breanna. After a big parade, she heads to her concert. She receives a key to the city before performing a few songs. “Best day ever,” she declares.
It’s not a religious song, but “The Climb” is the perfect competition song. It could easily be a winners song. Just imagine the confetti flying. The gist of the hit tune is about powering a way through hard things before arriving at a better place. She tosses off a major note near the end. When did she breathe?
Luke calls it a “perfect song choice.” He compares it to a movie. Lionel calls the performance moving and again reminds fans to vote. Carrie calls Breanna an inspiration.
Salt N Pepa perform Push It and sings “Shoop” & Whatta Man” with Top 14 Ladies
“Push It.” This song. Ha ha ha. They move on quickly to “Shoop.” 90s vibes all around. Female Top 14 contestants join them on stage to sing background vocals for “Whatta Man.”
FIRST ELIMINATION! TOP 2 IS REVEALED!
The Top 3 take the stage for the first result. The first person to take a spot in the Top 2, after the nationwide vote, is John Foster. The final person still in the running to be the American Idol is….Jamal Roberts. YASSS. Breanna Nix is eliminated in third place.
Good Charlotte performs Lifestyle of the Rich and Famous with the Top 14 guys
The band has an in. Joel is Lionel’s son-in-law. The band kicks it off with “The Anthem.” Then Desmond Roberts joins them, followed by the rest of the Top 14 boys to sing “Lifestyles of the Rich and the Famous.” Desmond and the rest are game to get down with some pop punk.
Luke Bryan – Country Came On plus John Foster Joins Him
Now, Luke Bryan takes the stage to sing “Country Came On.” Drank, drank drank. He loves country music y’all. Self referential genre songs are always annoying (hate it in rock too). Then John Foster joins Luke to sing a Randy Travis cover “Deeper than the Holler.” Good pairing.
2022 winner Noah Thompson is in the house! He just dropped his new EP. Carrie surprises with news that he is set to make his Grand Ole Opry debut on May 31. Good stuff for a winner who lost his Idol record deal. No, really, he is no longer with 19 Records.
Gospel singer Kirk Franklin takes the stage with Canaan James Hill
He and Canaan James Hill perform a melody of his hits. First, it’s “Melodies from Heaven” and then “Love Theory.” Ha. Kirk grabs Canaan, who seems VERY nervous. He attempts to shake him out of his fear and hesitancy, pulling him around the stage and encouraging him. Kirk is pretty sexy for a Jesus dude. Canaan is a wonderful singer, but he needs to work on his stage presence and confidence.
Goo Goo Dolls sing “Iris” with Mattie Pruitt
Mattie sounds beautiful singing this 90s era pop classic. She’s on her way to be a fine pop singer. All she needs is more life experience where she’ll develop her own style and confidence.
Next, in a video clip, the contestants kinda riff on John Foster with comments and impressions.
Brandon Lake and Breanna Nix sing “Daddy’s DNA”
How hard is it to take the stage again after being eliminated? The show must go on. She sings the song beautifully. Her harmonies with Brandon are lovely. Brandon gives props to Breanna before shouting out to Jesus.
Jennifer Holliday and Gabby Samone join forces
Jennifer Holliday and Gabby Samone come together to sing “I am Changing” from Dreamgirls. Guess JHud was too busy to duet with her gal? Oh well. Jennifer’s voice is very…raspy, to say the least. Her rough tone butts up against Gabby’s sweet tone. But when they sing together, their voices blend.
Jelly Roll and Jamal Roberts perform
Jamal sang “Unpretty” in competition. Now they are singing the song together. The two follow it up with a performance of “Liar.” The two singers are on FIRE. Jamal is RIPPING up the stage.
Myles Smith joines Che Chesterman and Filo
First he sings “Nice to Meet You” as Che and Filo join him on stage. Whoa, Che sounds fantastic! The trio ends the set with Myles huge sync hit “Stargazing.” They look like they’re having a blast up there.
Ryan announces that John and Jamal have won a trip for 4 on a Disney cruise. It’s not a car, but not bad.
Amanda Barise and Pj Morton cover the Bee Gees
Amanda and PJ perform a soulful rendition of the classic Bee Gees hit. The singer could cut out half of those runs and still be great! Having said that, she brought jazz to the competition (So did Desmond Roberts) and that’s a very good thing. These two singers aren’t exactly jelling. Too much divafying to make it work.
Patti Labelle and Kolbi Jordan SANG
Lionel introduced Kolbi to Patti via Facetime back during the singer’s audition. Lionel wished the two would sing together, and here they are on stage singing “Lady Marmalade.” Kolbi is so obviously excited to be performing with her Idol. Her tone is cutting through here as are her big adlibs.
Now, the contestants make fun of Jamal Roberts, particularly how he loves to show off his chest.
Carrie Underwood sings”Im Gonna Love You” with Slater Nalley. Cody Johnson Surprise!
I thought Carrie might sing with Breanna, as they have so much in common. But maybe too much competition. Oops! Instead, she sings “I’m Gonna Love You” with Slater Nalley and it’s really great! Carrie’s original duet partner on the song, Cody Johnson, joins them on stage. SURPRISE. He claims to be a big Slater fan.
The War and Treaty and Thunderstorm Artis sing “Hey Driver”
The performance is a clever combination of raspy voices, full of soul and character. There’s got to be a niche somewhere in the adult contemporary landscape for Thunderstorm. He’s a good songwriter and unique singer. Thunderstorm needs to open for them on tour!
Next, it’s a video about Carrie Underwood and her American Idol journey, that continues!
Jessica Simpson and Josh King WALK ALL OVER YOU
It’s Jessica’s first TV appearance in 15 years! She sings “Blame Me” as a solo. Then Josh King joins her for a duet of “These Boots Are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra. Well it gives Josh an excuse to play harmonica. That was kinda weird!
Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan perform “Stuck on You”
The judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan sing Lionel’s classic tune, “Stuck on You.” La la la….
Now, the Top 2 will perform their official singles.
John Foster – Tell That Angel I Love Her (Original) – Idol single
Remember how Luke said no to John Foster at his audition? It’s one last round for the Top 2. But at this point, the votes are in. No fan will fumble around to change their votes at the last minute. Having said that, bringing an emotional and deeply personal song to a singing competition is always a smart thing to do.
Jamal Roberts – Heal by Tom Odell – Idol single
Easily Jamal’s most surprising and satisfying performance of the entire season. That he can take an indie singer-songwriter tune and completely make it over in his soulful style is a testament to his talent. He’s the guy who should win if the contest is judged on vocal talent, performance ability and unique style.
AND THE WINNER IS….
The voting is closed. Ryan has the results. The two give each other plaudits. Over 26 million votes! Double over last year’s numbers. BIggest in ABC history. TOM DIM THE LIGHTS. The winner of American Idol 2025 is…JAMAL ROBERTS!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!
American Idol Season 23 Results
- Jamal Roberts – WINNER
- John Foster – Runner-up
- Breanna Nix – 2nd Runner-up
OK then. JAMAL ROBERTS WINS AMERICAN IDOL JOHN FOSTER IS THE RUNNER UP
OH NOES. It appears that John saw the card before Ryan announced the winner. John glances over at Ryan and this LOOK spreads across his face. When Ryan finally announces Jamal the winner, that same look returns. After 23 seasons, Ryan should be able to hide the name! Several contestants saw the card before the proper announcement (Clay Aiken, Maddie Poppe and maybe Kris Allen).
My prediction that John Foster would win American Idol was TOTALLY WRONG. And I’m not mad about it. However, I did mention in our Rankings that Jamal had a chance. I never counted him completely out. And based on tonight’s performances alone, he deserved the win. His entire body of work over the season was worthy of winning the crown.
If I believed tonight’s performances made a difference, I’d say that John’s choice to sing a highly divisive Toby Keith cover lost him the competition. But nah, fans minds are typically made up by finale night.
By the end of the night, I felt John still would win. After Breanna was eliminated, her fans could have tossed her votes to another country singer. But sometimes when a fave is gone, fans don’t want to vote for anybody else.
In any case, 19R will sign all three singers who will go on to release records, and now have the opportunity for successful music careers. The real contest happens after the show.
Fun facts: Jamal is the first Black male singer to win American Idol since season 2 champ, Ruben Studdard in 2003. If John had won, he would have been the FOURTH male country singer to win the eight season ABC era (Laine Hardy, Chayce Beckham, Noah Thompson),
