Countdown to the Finale Begins
The stakes couldn’t be higher as American Idol Season 23 reached its most critical moment yet. On May 12, 2025, the Top 5 contestants performed live, hoping to secure one of only three spots in the finale — and a hometown hero’s welcome filled with parades, concerts, and emotional reunions.
Broadcast live coast-to-coast, the two-hour Disney-themed episode gave each contestant just two chances to win over America’s hearts and votes. The results, based on over 19 million viewer votes, were revealed by Ryan Seacrest in dramatic fashion.
Top 3 Results: Who Made the Cut?
As the tension reached its peak, Seacrest stepped onstage and announced, in no particular order, that the Top 3 contestants moving forward are:
-
John Foster -
Jamal Roberts
-
Breanna Nix
Unfortunately, that meant Thunderstorm Artis and S
Video:
later Nalley were eliminated, ending their inspiring Idol journeys just shy of the finale. The grand finale is set to air May 19, 2025.
How Each Contestant Performed on Disney Night #2
Slater Nalley – “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”
The 17-year-old surprised viewers by performing without his trademark guitar for the first time this season. Dressed in a sleek tux, Nalley channeled classic showmanship while performing the Toy Story favorite.
-
Carrie Underwood said it was a “fun way to kick off the show.”
-
Luke Bryan called it one of his favorite renditions of the song.
-
Lionel Richie reflected on Slater’s growth, saying, “Son, you’ve come a long way.”
Although Nalley later admitted to feeling disappointed about a previous performance, he declared he was there to redeem himself — and he certainly did.
John Foster – “The Bear Necessities”
Taking a trip down memory lane, Foster performed a jazzy version of The Jungle Book’s beloved tune. Starting with a smooth intro, he kicked up the tempo and had the crowd clapping along.
-
Bryan said Foster has nailed his “look and sound.”
-
Richie praised his natural “likability.”
-
Underwood smiled and said, “That was just a good time.”
Foster’s charm and playfulness cemented his place as a crowd favorite.
Thunderstorm Artis – “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes”
Artis delivered a soft, lullaby-style version of the Cinderella classic — a song he often sings to his children.
-
Lionel Richie said he “knocked it out of the park.”
-
Carrie Underwood praised his sweetness and believability.
-
Luke Bryan noted how hard it is to critique such an emotional performance.
The moment was especially touching as his two sons were shown sleeping peacefully in the audience — a real-life effect of the lullaby’s magic.
Breanna Nix – “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)”
The 25-year-old mom brought fierce energy and big vocals to her performance of the Natalie Cole hit. Accompanied by horns and backup singers, she looked every bit the star.
-
Underwood advised her to have fun onstage despite the pressure.
-
Bryan said she handled the performance beautifully.
-
Richie applauded her for learning to thrive under stress.
Breanna admitted that upbeat songs push her outside her comfort zone — but that’s exactly why she chose to embrace the challenge.
Jamal Roberts – “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”
Roberts delivered one of the most powerful performances of the night. With his family cheering from the audience, he brought soul and celebration to the stage.
-
Luke Bryan jumped to his feet, shouting, “Shake it out!”
-
Richie said he “Jamalarized” the song and made it completely his own.
-
Underwood praised his vocal strength, but wished he had moved around the stage more.
Earlier in the episode, viewers saw Roberts at Disneyland with his young daughters, creating special memories. He shared that if his gift could change his life — he didn’t want to stop now.
What’s Next?
The American Idol 2025 finale airs live on May 19, with John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix going head-to-head for the crown. Each will return to their hometowns this week for special celebrations and hometown visits — an Idol tradition that turns aspiring singers into hometown heroes.
This season has delivered powerful vocals, raw emotion, and unforgettable moments — and now it all comes down to one final night.
Stay tuned for exclusive coverage of the Top 3’s hometown visits and performances — and don’t miss the grand finale on May 19.
-
