The biggest night of the season has finally arrived.
After months of auditions, emotional eliminations, viral performances, and intense live voting, American Idol Season 24 is preparing to officially crown its next winner during a massive live finale event airing Monday night.
With finalists Hannah Harper, Jordan McCullough, and Keyla Richardson all competing for America’s final vote, fans are expecting one of the most emotional and star-packed finales the show has delivered in years.
And beyond the competition itself, the night is also loaded with celebrity performances, surprise collaborations, and special duet moments viewers have been waiting weeks to see.
When and Where To Watch the Finale
The live three-hour finale airs Monday, May 11, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on ABC.
The event will broadcast live coast-to-coast, allowing viewers across the country to vote in real time as the performances unfold. Fans can also stream the finale through Disney+ and other live television streaming platforms carrying ABC.
Because voting remains open during the live broadcast, every performance could directly influence the final outcome before the winner is revealed at the end of the night.
Meet the Final Three Contestants
After one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory, three finalists remain standing.
Hannah Harper
Harper emerged as one of the breakout stars of the season after her emotional original audition song “String Cheese” went viral online. Her combination of country storytelling, emotional vulnerability, and growing social media support has made her one of the strongest contenders heading into the finale.
Jordan McCullough
McCullough steadily built momentum throughout the season with soulful performances and emotionally powerful vocals. His consistency and stage presence helped him become one of the most respected performers among both fans and judges.
Keyla Richardson
Known for her powerhouse vocals and gospel background, Richardson repeatedly delivered some of the season’s most technically impressive performances. Many viewers believe she still has the ability to surprise everyone during the final live vote.
Celebrity Performances and Finale Duets
This year’s finale is expected to feature a huge lineup of celebrity guests and returning Idol favorites.
Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood will all perform during the broadcast, including a special group performance of Lionel Richie’s “Deep River Woman.”
Luke Bryan is also set to debut his new song “Fish Hunt Golf Drink” before later joining finalist Julián Kalel for a performance of “A Thousand Miles From Nowhere.”
Meanwhile, Carrie Underwood’s collaboration with legendary rock band Mötley Crüe has already become one of the most talked-about moments leading into the finale.
Alicia Keys Joins as Guest Mentor
Seventeen-time Grammy winner Alicia Keys will serve as a guest mentor throughout the finale and is also expected to perform live during the show.
Her involvement has added even more excitement to the event, especially after fans began speculating online about her opinions regarding the finalists heading into the final vote.
Additional Guest Stars Taking the Stage
The finale lineup also includes performances from:
- Brad Paisley
- Blues Traveler
- Gin Blossoms
- Clay Aiken
- En Vogue
- Jason Mraz
- Lee Ann Womack
- Nelly
- Shinedown
- Tori Kelly
Several of these artists will also perform special duets alongside contestants and eliminated finalists during the show.
One Final Vote Decides Everything
By the end of the night, America will officially choose who wins American Idol Season 24.
Whether it becomes a predictable victory or another shocking Idol upset, fans agree this finale feels far bigger than a normal season ending. Between emotional contestant journeys, celebrity appearances, and live voting drama, the stage is now set for one final unforgettable night.
