American Idol Season 23 Finale Recap: After a series of star-studded performances, one artist took home the trophy

American Idol Season 23 Finale premiered on May 18, 2025. The highly anticipated finale of ABC's iconic singing competition featured many renowned artists. The finale saw performances from the guests, judges, the three finalists, and more.

Everyone has been eagerly waiting to know who would take home the iconic title and the trophy. More than anyone else, the three finalists, John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix, have been waiting.

The finale saw performances from various guest artists who performed with the Top 14 finalists. Breanna Nix grabbed third place. Jamal Roberts was announced as the American Idol Season 23 winner while John Foster became the runner-up.

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American Idol Season 23 Finale Recap: Audience enjoyed many incredible performances before the winner was announced

American Idol Season 23 Finale featured artists including Brandon Lake, Jennifer Holliday, Jessica Simpson, Josh Groban, Kirk Franklin, Myles Smith, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, Goo Goo Dolls, and Good Charlotte. Along with the Top 14 finalists were also there to deliver the performances.

The first performance of the night was by John Foster, 18. He performed Toby Keith's Courtesy of The Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American). Luke Bryan said John's confidence and voice have gotten better. Carrie stated it was "pulling out" all the stops.

Jamal Roberts performed Teeks' First Time, which Carrie said he looked "comfortable" and "at ease."

"What I love about you is the way you just navigate the story, and it happens to come out of your mouth in brilliant form," said Lionel Richie.

Third finalist, Breanna Nix, was up next, who performed Katy Nichole's In Jesus Name (God of Possible). Carrie mentioned she reminded everyone why they love her and that her performance was "warm" and believable. Luke stated that Breanna had been "amazingly solid" all year and that she has a "special heart."

John Foster's second performance was John Denver's Take Me Home, Country Roads. Luke said it was "beautiful", while Carrie mentioned it was a "great song choice." Jamal Roberts' second performance was The Temptations' Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me).

"You are divinely guided, my friend," said Lionel Richie.

Breanna Nix's second performance was Miley Cyrus's The Climb. Carrie stated Breanna was a "wonderful inspiration" to so many people and Lionel mentioned it was a "perfect" song with "perfect" voice.

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American Idol Season 23 Finale Recap: More performances from various artists

Following up the American Idol Season 23 finalists' performances, there were various additional performances for the finale ceremony. The three finalists performed Queen's We are the Champions.

More performances featured on American Idol Season 23 Finale:

• Salt-N-Pepa: Shoop, Push It, Whatta Man, along with the Top 14 female finalists,
• Good Charlotte: The Anthem, Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous, with the Top 14 male finalists,
• Luke Bryan: Country Song Came On, Deeper Than the Holler with John Foster,
• Kirk Franklin: Melodies from Heaven, Love Theory with Canaan James,
• Goo Goo Dolls: Iris with Mattie Pruitt,
• Brandon Lake: Daddy's DNA with Breanna Nix,
• Jennifer Holliday: I Am Changing with Gabby Samone,
• Jelly Roll: Liar and Unpretty with Jamal Roberts,
• Myles Smith: Nice to Meet You, Stargazing with Ché and Filo,

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American Idol Season 23 Finale Recap: Who took home the epic win?

After many amazing performances throughout the night, it was time for the big moment that everyone had been waiting for. Breanna Nix was placed third, meaning she was not the Top 2.

At last, the winner was announced. Jamal Roberts took home the title, trophy, and the big win.

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Fans can now stream the American Idol Season 23 Finale on ABC.