With the American Idol Season 23 finale just days away, excitement and speculation are at an all-time high. After a season packed with memorable performances, the final three contestants have been revealed: Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix.

In a candid behind-the-scenes interview after the May 12 live show, Luke Bryan shared his gut feeling—he believes Jamal is the frontrunner.

“MY INSTINCT TELLS ME JAMAL HAS LED ALL YEAR”

Speaking openly, the country superstar and longtime judge praised Jamal Roberts’ steady presence and magnetic appeal:

“My instinct has been telling me that Jamal has been leading throughout the year,” said Bryan, 48. “He’s consistently strong, commanding the stage… he’s been in control.”

However, Bryan, mindful of the show’s unpredictability, acknowledged the growing strength of the other finalists:

“Breanna keeps coming back stronger each week — she continually surprises us.”

“And John Foster? He’s gaining serious momentum. That kind of energy can change everything.”

IT’S STILL WIDE OPEN

Bryan emphasized that this phase of the competition demands not only vocal talent but also mental toughness and perfect timing:

“You can’t lose focus for a single moment. This is the music industry — every day matters.”

Fellow judge Lionel Richie agreed but pointed out a key factor: likability.

“It’s not always the best singer who wins,” Richie explained. “It’s about who the audience connects with — who they root for, not just as a performer, but as a person.”

Richie added that America votes on values, vulnerability, and authenticity—not just vocal skill.

CARRIE UNDERWOOD SHARES HER THOUGHTS ON THE FINALE

Carrie Underwood, the 2005 Idol winner, shared her perspective and a dose of reality:

“They’ve had a much shorter season than I did,” she said. “Everything moves incredibly fast, and I’m sure they feel like they’re racing just to keep pace.”

She compared the finale week to a “star boot camp”:

“This is just a preview of the real world as an artist. They’ll be running non-stop — traveling home, performing, promoting — and the pressure will only increase.”

THE FINAL THREE COMPETING FOR THE TITLE

Jamal Roberts — Soulful powerhouse and father of three from Meridian, Mississippi

John Foster — Country heartthrob and fan favorite from Addis, Louisiana

Breanna Nix — Inspirational pop vocalist and devoted mom from Denton, Texas

This lineup showcases the diversity of talent that Idol is known for, but only one will claim the crown.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 23 FINALE

The grand finale airs Sunday, May 19 at 8 PM ET on ABC and promises to be one of the most star-studded and emotional finales in Idol history.

SPECIAL MUSICAL GUESTS INCLUDE:

Brandon Lake

Goo Goo Dolls

Good Charlotte

Jennifer Holliday

Jessica Simpson

Josh Groban

Kirk Franklin

Myles Smith

Patti LaBelle

Salt-N-Pepa

Additionally, judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood will perform together for a rare group number, and artist-in-residence Jelly Roll will deliver a powerful set.

DON’T MISS THE MOMENT

From raw auditions to the intense finale, Season 23 has been an emotional journey — culminating this Sunday.

Tune in to find out who will take home the crown and become the next American Idol superstar.