Season 23 of American Idol has officially come to an emotional close — and while Jamal Roberts was crowned the winner, millions of fans are still rallying behind runner-up John Foster, whose heartfelt reaction and fan-favorite status continue to dominate headlines.
In what is now the most-voted finale in recent years, over 26 million votes were cast during the live May 18 broadcast — a staggering number that doubled last season’s total. Despite early predictions favoring 18-year-old John Foster as the likely winner, the Louisiana native ultimately finished second, prompting widespread discussion, support, and even controversy.
John Foster: More Than a Contestant — A True Country Star in the Making
Throughout the competition, Foster carved out his identity as an authentic storyteller with a rich country voice and a gift for songwriting. His original track, performed live on the Idol stage, gained viral traction — a rare feat for any finalist. Fans praised him not just for his vocal ability, but for bringing sincerity and depth back to modern country music.
With his roots in small-town Louisiana, Foster struck a chord with millions across America. Many believed his combination of talent, humility, and star power made him the season’s obvious frontrunner.
A Finale Marked by Passion — and Controversy
Though the finale delivered unforgettable performances, stunning visuals, and appearances by all three judges, not everything went without scrutiny. The massive vote count added to the suspense, but some fans voiced frustration when Foster came in second, especially after a viral moment during the winner reveal where Foster’s facial expression appeared to shift before the name was officially announced.
This, along with earlier behind-the-scenes commentary by former contestants, reignited debates over transparency and fairness — turning Foster’s reaction into one of the night’s most discussed moments.
John Foster Shares Emotional Message with Fans After the Show
In the face of disappointment, Foster showed nothing but gratitude. Shortly after the finale, he took to Facebook to thank his supporters with a heartfelt message that quickly went viral:
“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends. I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart – times a million.” 🙏❤️
Fans flooded the post with encouragement, calling him “the real winner” and pledging lifelong support for his music.
Watch the Final Performances — Who Truly Deserved the Crown?
We’ve included both finale performances below for you to experience again. Watch closely — and decide for yourself who delivered the most unforgettable moment of American Idol Season 23.
John Foster Performance:
Jamal Roberts Performane:
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My family saw me as a liability. They had no idea that I had already made myself a ghost, and the only thing I left behind was a trail of breadcrumbs leading to their downfall.
I never thought a family barbecue, something so ordinary, would end with me gasping for breath, my fingers clawing at…
They called the police, pretending to be worried about a “missing” old woman. They didn’t know the police were already at their door, not to find me, but to find them.
I never thought a family barbecue, something so ordinary, would end with me gasping for breath, my fingers clawing at…
My grandson thought I was a pathetic old woman, easy to push around. He had no idea that the only one losing their mind was him—and that I was about to prove it.
I never thought a family barbecue, something so ordinary, would end with me gasping for breath, my fingers clawing at…
They laughed at me in the water, planning to put me in a home. They had no idea that the “frail” act was all part of a master plan to turn the tables on them.
I never thought a family barbecue, something so ordinary, would end with me gasping for breath, my fingers clawing at…
My grandson pushed me into a lake and laughed while I drowned. “Don’t be so dramatic!” my daughter-in-law sneered. They thought the frail old woman who paid for everything was too weak to fight back. I pretended to be frail and forgetful, letting them believe I was losing my mind. “She’s a liability,” I heard them whisper, planning to put me in a home. They had no idea I was documenting every cruel word. When they finally realized my bank accounts were empty, they called the police to report me missing. But the evidence I left for the officers turned their lives into a nightmare…
I never thought a family barbecue, something so ordinary, would end with me gasping for breath, my fingers clawing at…
The MIL thought she could get away with stealing a priceless heirloom. But the universe had a different plan. And in a single moment at the altar, everyone was reminded that some things are too sacred to be stolen.
I thought the hardest part of wedding planning would be figuring out seating charts, but something far worse happened. My…
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