On May 12, the American Idol journey narrowed dramatically as viewers learned which three contestants would advance to the grand finale on May 19. The revelation came after an enchanting Disney Night that showcased each performer’s versatility and star potential.
The magical evening that determined the final three
The evening began with five hopefuls, each delivering two performances that would determine their fate. The remaining contestants—Slater Nalley, Breanna Nix, John Foster, Jamal Roberts and Thunderstorm Artis—received mentorship from Broadway legend Lin-Manuel Miranda, who guided them through their Disney-themed song selections.
With fewer contestants remaining, each performer enjoyed extended stage time and enthusiastic reception from the studio audience. The night marked Episode 17 of the season, with each artist bringing their unique style to beloved Disney classics.
Distinctive performances that showcased each contestant’s strengths
The five competitors delivered performances that highlighted their individual artistic identities:
- Thunderstorm Artis embraced his signature style, delivering a heartfelt performance while accompanying himself on guitar.
- Slater Nalley ventured outside his comfort zone, setting aside his guitar for the first time this season to channel Randy Newman’s distinctive vocal approach.
- Breanna Nix navigated a challenging performance of Natalie’s “This Will Be” before redeeming herself with an emotional rendition from “Tarzan” that moved her husband to tears.
- John Foster continued to develop his modern cowboy persona with performances that resonated with his growing fanbase.
- Jamal Roberts impressed with his fresh R&B interpretation of a classic “Beauty and the Beast” number.
The episode also featured season 20 winner Iam Tongi, who returned to the Idol stage for a special performance connected to the upcoming live-action “Lilo & Stitch” film.
Two talented guitarists bid farewell
As host Ryan Seacrest revealed the results of America’s votes, the atmosphere grew tense. When the announcements concluded, guitar specialists Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis learned they hadn’t secured enough votes to continue in the competition.
While this moment marked the end of their American Idol journey as contestants, both performers will return for the finale alongside the rest of the Top 14 for a special group performance.
Meet your American Idol Season 23 finalists
The three artists who captured America’s hearts and will compete for the title in the May 19 finale are:
- John Foster, whose modern country approach has earned him consistent praise throughout the competition. His authentic performances and distinctive voice have made him a frontrunner since the early rounds. Foster’s ability to connect emotionally with both the songs and the audience has been his greatest strength.
- Jamal Roberts, whose soulful delivery and impressive vocal range have made him a standout performer. Roberts has consistently demonstrated remarkable versatility, tackling genres from R&B to pop with equal skill. His Disney Night performance showcased his ability to put a personal stamp on well-known classics.
- Breanna Nix, whose vocal prowess and emotional performances have captivated viewers week after week. Despite facing challenges with her first Disney Night selection, Nix rebounded powerfully with her second performance, demonstrating the resilience that has characterized her journey. Her ability to convey heartfelt emotion through her singing has been evident throughout the competition.
The road to the finale
As the competition enters its final week, the pressure intensifies for the remaining three contestants. Each finalist must now prepare for their most important performances yet—ones that could determine the trajectory of their musical careers.
The journey to this point has been arduous. From the initial auditions through Hollywood Week, the Showcase Round, and numerous live performances, each contestant has navigated a gauntlet of challenges. They’ve performed solo, participated in duets, received mentorship from industry legends, and faced the constant pressure of potential elimination.
For John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix, reaching the Top 3 represents not just a personal achievement but validation of their artistic visions. Each has developed significantly since their first auditions, refining their styles while maintaining the authentic qualities that first impressed the judges.
A star-studded finale approaches
The Season 23 finale promises to be a spectacular event featuring not only the final performances from the Top 3 but also appearances from the entire Top 14. Additionally, the show will welcome an impressive lineup of music industry stars.
Viewers can anticipate performances from a diverse array of artists spanning multiple genres: the Goo Goo Dolls, Good Charlotte, Jessica Simpson, Jelly Roll, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, Jennifer Holliday, Josh Groban, Brandon Lake, Myles Smith, and Kirk Franklin.
In keeping with American Idol tradition, judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie will also take to the stage, demonstrating the performance skills that earned them their prestigious judging positions.
The significance of reaching the finale
For the three finalists, reaching this stage of the competition represents an extraordinary opportunity. Regardless of who ultimately wins the title, all three have secured significant exposure and established foundations for successful careers in the music industry.
The American Idol platform has launched numerous successful artists who didn’t necessarily win the competition. From Jennifer Hudson to Adam Lambert to Katharine McPhee, many contestants have leveraged their Idol exposure into thriving entertainment careers.
John, Jamal, and Breanna now stand at a similar threshold. The finale will provide them with unprecedented national exposure, connections with established artists, and the chance to perform original material for millions of viewers.
The evolution of Season 23
This season of American Idol has featured numerous memorable moments and unique challenges for the contestants. From the initial auditions that discovered these talented performers to the Hollywood Week crucible that tested their adaptability, the journey has been filled with emotional highs and lows.
The season has showcased not just vocal talent but also personal growth. Viewers have watched as initially nervous performers developed into confident artists with defined musical identities. The mentorship provided by the judges and guest mentors has played a crucial role in this development.
As the competition reaches its climax, each finalist represents a distinct musical direction. Their contrasting styles provide viewers with a compelling choice between different artistic visions.
What to expect in the finale
The American Idol finale traditionally features each finalist performing multiple songs, including at least one original composition. This format allows contestants to demonstrate not just their vocal abilities but also their artistic vision and potential commercial appeal.
The May 19 finale will likely follow this pattern, with John, Jamal, and Breanna each performing songs that highlight their unique strengths. Viewers can anticipate emotional performances as the contestants pour everything into their final opportunity to win America’s votes.
The finale also typically includes duets between finalists and established artists, creating memorable moments that can launch careers regardless of the final outcome.
As Season 23 approaches its conclusion, the competition remains remarkably open. Each finalist brings different strengths to the table, and all three have demonstrated the potential to claim the title of the next American Idol.
