⁠"Completely different" American Idol contestant Breanna Nix claims she has changed since being on the show 

When Breanna Nix first stepped onto the American Idol stage, she introduced herself simply as "just a stay at home mom." Fast forward to Disney Night, where the Texas native found herself among the top seven contestants, performing Reflection from Mulan.

"When I look at myself in the mirror - the beginning of this journey and who I am now is just completely different," she explained while discussing her song choice.

Elaborating:

"When I tried out, I didn't even think I'd get past the judges, and then here I am in the Top 7."

Season 23 of American Idol has been a transformative journey for many contestants, but perhaps none more visibly than Nix. Sunday's episode featured a Disney-themed round of performances followed by Mother's Day tributes, giving the remaining singers two opportunities to win over the voting audience.

With Broadway sensation Lin-Manuel Miranda serving as guest mentor, the stakes were high as two contestants faced elimination by the end of the night.

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Breanna Nix’s progress on American Idol

The shift in Nix's confidence didn't go unnoticed during her mentoring session with Lin-Manuel Miranda. While preparing for her performance, Nix acknowledged the personal growth she's experienced during the competition:

"I believe in myself now a lot more than I did starting the show," she told Miranda.

Who responded with encouraging words:

"You're in the final seven, this is already a victory."

This newfound self-assurance translated into her rendition of Reflection, where she deliberately began tentatively before showcasing her full vocal range. Rather than overpowering the Christina Aguilera song with constant belting, Nix displayed remarkable restraint and musical maturity.

American Idol judge Carrie Underwood seemed particularly moved by Nix's journey, telling the contestant:

"I honestly was fighting back tears just seeing you guys' journey throughout this whole show, and watching you all — you especially — just grow and evolve. You just look like you belong exactly where you are."

Fellow judge Lionel Richie highlighted her "poise and grace," as well as her emotional connection to the performance. Luke Bryan added:

"You are always in total control. That song was a perfect choice for you."

Nix's selection of Reflection wasn't random. The song's lyrics about discovering one's true self mirrored her own evolution on the show. Miranda suggested she approach the performance by starting as the singer who first auditioned, then finishing as the artist she's become.

Dressed elegantly alongside a string section, Nix took this advice to heart. She began softly, gradually building intensity as the song progressed, demonstrating both vocal control and emotional depth.

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What’s next for Breanna Nix?

As voting opened during Sunday's broadcast, Nix's future on American Idol remained uncertain. Only five contestants would advance, with two being eliminated by the episode's end.

Regardless of the outcome, Nix's transformation from a shy stay-at-home mom to a confident performer with "poise and grace" has become one of the season's most compelling narratives. Her journey reinforces American Idol's enduring appeal – not just as a singing competition, but as a platform where ordinary people discover extraordinary versions of themselves.

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You can watch American Idol Season 23 live on ABC every Sunday at 8 p.m. ET/PT, with new episodes available for streaming the next day on Hulu.