I think Breanna Nix deserved to be in the American Idol Top 2

Breanna Nix - Finalist of American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @breannanixmusic
Breanna Nix - Finalist of American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @breannanixmusic

I'll be honest, when American Idol Season 23 premiered, Breanna Nix was not on my radar. But somewhere along the way, her voice began to break through the noise. Slowly, quietly, and without any dazzling gimmicks, she earned her place among the elite. That's why I was so upset when she didn't make the Top 2. It was as if we had watched someone bloom only to be stopped just before full bloom.

Her final performances were mesmerizing to the core. "In Jesus Name (God of Possible)" was hauntingly strong, and when she sang "The Climb," I felt as if she was singing directly from her own experience, each word seemed lived in. I believe Breanna had the uncommon capacity to cause you to pause, feel, and contemplate. That, in my opinion, is not only talent, but also artistry. She did not fade into the background during the duets or group performances. She held her ground with quiet strength.

While the final Top 2 may have earned their spots, I believe Breanna deserved to be standing with them. Her experience on the program was one of development, grace, and raw talent. For me, she was the complete deal, and I'll always believe she should have advanced to the final showdown.


Breanna Nix fails to make it to American Idol Season 23 Top 2

Finale Performances: Solos, duets, and group

Breanna Nix may not have made it to the Top 2 on American Idol Season 23, but her closing performances were a great tribute to her talent. For her solo round, she selected a pair of emotional powerhouses in “In Jesus Name (God of Possible)” by Katy Nichole and “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. On both parts, the songs are spiritually and emotionally intricate, but Breanna offers a quiet tenderness in both performances. Hers didn’t require the adornments of feigned sincerity and unquestionable conviction.

Breanna Nix was paired with Brandon Lake in the duet round in the American Idol finale, where their harmonies melded seamlessly, bringing emotional depth to their rendition of "Daddy's DNA". While some performances relied on vocal fireworks, Breanna and Lake chose a more intimate approach, which felt refreshing.

During Queen's group performance of "We Are the Champions," she held her own among the finalists, providing a calm and poised stage presence that didn't scream for attention, but commanded it nonetheless.


Her journey from underdog to fan favorite

Breanna's journey through American Idol Season 23 has been one of the show's most captivating narratives. Early on, she was not a front-runner. Many people did not expect her to make it past the early Hollywood rounds. But, week after week, she gradually earned her place, not through viral moments or shock value, but by raw, steady vocal delivery and meaningful song selection.

Breanna stood out because of her authenticity. She didn't fit into the usual Idol model; instead, she embraced her vulnerability and allowed it to become her strength. By the time she reached the Top 3, it was apparent that her journey was not based on hype but on heart. While she did not make it to the final two, her subtle ascension reminded many viewers that the most memorable performances are often those that whisper rather than shout.


Watch all the episodes of American Idol Season 23 on ABC.

Edited by Zainab Shaikh