He may not have taken home the trophy, but American Idol runner-up John Foster is already living out a dream—and fans can’t get enough.
The 18-year-old from Louisiana finished second during Sunday night’s emotional three-hour finale of American Idol Season 23. Though the crown went to Mississippi’s Jamal Roberts, and powerhouse singer Breanna Nix took third, Foster walked away as one of the season’s most talked-about stars.

“I was shook,” Foster admitted after the show. “To be top two? That’s wild. But when Jamal’s name was called, I felt nothing but peace. I was happy for him—and proud of myself, too.”

Now, He’s Hitting the Stage in Nashville

Fresh off the finale, Foster has announced his first big public appearance—joining several American Idol alums for a free concert in downtown Nashville.

“I’m super excited to join some great friends in Nashville for this concert on June 4th,” Foster shared. “This will be my first ‘official’ appearance in Music City, which is quite the milestone!”

 

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The show will take place at 6th and Peabody and kicks off a summer filled with momentum for these rising stars. The lineup features:

• Jamal Roberts (Season 23 winner)
• John Foster (Season 23 runner-up)
• Breanna Nix (Season 23 third place)
• Slater Nalley, Kolbi Jordan, Gabby Simone, Mattie Pruett, Thunderstorm Artis
• Colin Stough (Season 21 second runner-up, from Gattman, MS)
• Will Moseley (Season 22), Wé Ani (Season 21), HunterGirl (Season 20), and Adii (Season 12)

“American Idol May Be Over, But I’m Just Getting Started”

John Foster isn’t wasting a second. With a record deal in the works, new music on the way, and a growing fanbase, he’s stepping into the next chapter of his career.

“American Idol may be done, but I’m not slowing down. Not even a little,” he said.

Foster credits his growth to the judges—especially Carrie Underwood, who returned as a mentor this season. “She was in our shoes once,” he said. “She’s been such an inspiration.”

He also leaned on fellow Louisianan Laine Hardy, who told him to always stay true to himself—advice Foster carried with him all season long.

“I Feel Like I’ve Grown 10 Years”

Reflecting on his journey from auditions to the finale, Foster says the experience changed him completely.

“I was a kid in November. I’ve grown in every way—spiritually, musically, personally. I’m more confident, more grounded, more grateful.”

He especially credits a performance dedicated to his late friend Maggie Dunn as the moment everything shifted.

“She believed in me before I did. That performance… it launched my career.”

Looking Ahead

So what’s next?

“Studio time. New music. More shows. I want to touch lives on a bigger scale,” Foster said. “At the end of the day, it’s not about titles. It’s about using your gifts to make the world better.”

He paused and smiled.

“Little old me made it this far. Just imagine what’s next.”