The Shocking Final Eliminations: Who Went Home On American Idol Last Night And Who Was Crowned The Winner?
The most recent season of *American Idol* has concluded, delivering one of the most emotional finales in the show's history. As of today, December 22, 2025, the question of "who went home on *American Idol* last night" refers to the final, nail-biting eliminations of the Season 23 Grand Finale, which saw three incredible talents compete for the coveted title. The final episode was packed with celebrity performances, tearful judge farewells, and a historic crowning that left two phenomenal singers going home just short of the win.
The finale night, which aired on Sunday, May 18, 2025, saw the Top 3—Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix—take the stage one last time. Ultimately, the contestant who went home as the third-place finisher was Breanna Nix, followed by John Foster as the runner-up. The new champion, and the one who did *not* go home, was the powerful gospel-rooted singer, Jamal Roberts.
American Idol Season 23 Winner & Finalists: The Complete Biography Profile
The final three contestants of *American Idol* Season 23 represented a diverse and immensely talented group, each with a unique background and musical style. Here is a look at the champion and the two finalists who were the last to be eliminated, providing the definitive answer to who went home on *American Idol* last night.
Jamal Roberts: The Season 23 Champion
- Hometown: Meridian, Mississippi
- Age: 27
- Occupation: Physical Education Teacher
- Musical Style: Gospel, R&B, Soul
- Audition Song: "Mary Jane" by Rick James
- Historical Note: Roberts became the first Black man to win *American Idol* since Ruben Studdard in Season 2.
- Journey Highlight: His profound talent was rooted in his faith and community service, which shone through in his powerful, emotional performances throughout the competition.
John Foster: The Runner-Up (2nd Place)
- Hometown: Addis, Louisiana
- Age: 18
- Musical Style: Country Crooner, Patriotic
- Journey Highlight: Foster captivated audiences with his traditional country sound and demonstrated songwriting skill, notably performing his original song "Tell" during a key episode.
- Final Standing: He was the last contestant eliminated, finishing as the Season 23 runner-up.
Breanna Nix: The 3rd Place Finalist
- Hometown: Denton, Texas
- Occupation: Stay-at-Home Mom
- Musical Style: Contemporary Christian, Pop
- Journey Highlight: Nix was an outspoken Christian singer whose powerful voice and emotional delivery resonated deeply with faith-based audiences, securing her a spot in the Top 3.
- Final Standing: Breanna Nix finished in third place, the first to be eliminated in the Grand Finale.
The Shocking Finale: How the Final Eliminations Unfolded
The Season 23 finale was a high-stakes, two-hour event that determined the ultimate champion. The episode featured the Top 3—Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix—performing multiple songs, including selections from the legendary singer Prince, and their potential new singles. The final eliminations were based entirely on real-time viewer votes, emphasizing the power of the audience's choice in the final round.
The first contestant to "go home" during the evening was Breanna Nix. Her third-place finish came after a season of consistently strong, faith-driven performances that the judges, including the new panel member Carrie Underwood, praised for their sincerity. Nix's elimination narrowed the race down to a head-to-head battle between the soulful voice of Jamal Roberts and the country charm of John Foster.
The final moments saw host Ryan Seacrest announce the results of the nationwide vote. John Foster was named the runner-up, meaning he was the final contestant to go home on *American Idol* for the season. Foster’s journey, marked by his youth and ability to connect with an authentic country sound, earned him a massive following, and his second-place finish sets him up for a promising career in country music.
The New Judging Panel and the Season's Biggest Change
A significant factor contributing to the fresh feel of Season 23 was the major shake-up at the judges' table. While Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie returned to their familiar seats, the panel saw the departure of pop superstar Katy Perry.
Replacing Perry was *American Idol* Season 4 winner, the country music icon Carrie Underwood. Underwood’s addition brought a unique perspective to the judging process. As a former contestant who successfully navigated the pressures of the show and achieved global stardom, her critiques were grounded in real-world experience, offering the contestants invaluable, specific advice.
The chemistry between Underwood, Bryan, and Richie created a dynamic that was both supportive and challenging for the contestants. This change in the judging lineup became a major talking point and a key entity of the season, constantly fueling discussion among the *American Idol* fanbase and influencing the journey of contestants like country singer John Foster and gospel artist Jamal Roberts.
The Journey of the Champion: Jamal Roberts' Historic Win
Jamal Roberts' victory was a monumental moment for *American Idol*. His journey from a physical education teacher in Meridian, Mississippi, to a national singing sensation highlighted the show’s ability to discover raw, authentic talent.
Roberts consistently impressed the judges with his powerful vocal control and his ability to infuse every performance with genuine soul and gospel fervor. His musical roots, often showcased in his song choices, allowed him to stand out in a field of diverse genres.
His win was particularly significant as he broke a long-standing streak, becoming the first Black male winner in over two decades, a historical fact that added weight and emotion to his crowning moment. Roberts’ final performances, including his original single, cemented his status as a deserving champion, proving that authentic artistry and a compelling personal story are still the keys to winning the hearts of the American voting public.
What’s Next for the Finalists and American Idol?
Even though John Foster and Breanna Nix went home without the title, their careers are just beginning. Both have secured a national platform and a dedicated fanbase, which is often the true prize of the competition. John Foster has already begun setting up post-*Idol* gigs, capitalizing on his runner-up status in the country music scene. Breanna Nix is widely expected to pursue a career in the Contemporary Christian industry, where her vocal style and message are a perfect fit.
As for the show, *American Idol* continues to be a television powerhouse. While the Season 23 results are finalized, the anticipation for the next season is already building, with fans eagerly awaiting news on the returning judges, new guest mentors, and the next wave of aspiring stars hoping to avoid the elimination that sends them home.
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