The climactic finale of American Idol 2024 unveiled the much-awaited victor, with the spotlight shining down on Abi Carter, alongside fellow Top 3 contenders Jack Blocker and Will Moseley.
The thrilling last performances on the American Idol platform had each finalist giving it their all with a pair of tunes—one lively and the other a tender ballad. Guiding them through this final challenge was the night’s mentor, the legendary Jon Bon Jovi, who not only mentored but also shared the stage with the finalists.
The journey included a sentimental chapter where the Top 3 visited their hometowns: Abi to Indio, California, Jack to Dallas, Texas, and Will to Hazelhurst, Georgia.
Beyond their solo acts, the finale experienced magic as the Top 3 and alums from Season 7 on ABC (season 22 overall) joined musical forces with renowned artists like Hootie and the Blowfish, New Kids on the Block, and so many more. These special duo performances, however, weren’t critiqued by the show’s judges—Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan—who also graced the stage with their own musical talents during the three-hour grand finale.
With America’s votes in, the new American Idol was crowned.
Related: American Idol Top 3—Abi Carter, Jack Blocker, and Will Moseley Discuss Their Winning Approaches
‘American Idol’ 2024 Finale: The Departures
Jack Blocker
Will Moseley
And the 2024 American Idol Is…
Abi Carter
The evening unfolded as follows:
The show opened with Abi, Jack, and Will electrifying the audience with a rendition of Jon Bon Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer”, with the rockstar himself performing alongside them.
Will Moseley:
Song: “It’s My Life” by Jon Bon Jovi
Lionel Richie gave his accolades saying, “Way to go Will Moseley. You’re there. Let it go. From now on for the rest of your career, let it go and enjoy yourself.”
Jack Blocker:
Song: “I’ll Be There For You” by Jon Bon Jovi
Katy Perry expressed, “It’s pretty surreal that we’re all here considering the complicated relationship we started with. You are still pushing yourself. You sound good. You look good. No one is blocking Jack Blocker. Even me.”
Abi Carter:
Song: “Bed of Roses” by Jon Bon Jovi
Luke Bryan was moved, noting, “That was tremendous. I think the room is saying what they feel. That was incredible.”
Related: American Idol Spotlight: Abi Carter Discusses the Intense Pressure of Holding a Platinum Ticket
As the evening progressed, the finalists paid homage to their roots.
Will Moseley:
Song: “My Town” by Montgomery Gentry
Lionel Richie commended, “You can make that song your staple because coming home and having a sell out in your hometown is like no other sell out. I loved it, man.”
Jack Blocker:
Song: “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” by George Strait
Katy Perry declared, “That’s what we talked about. That footloose and fancy-free, that is your bread and butter. It doesn’t matter what happens tonight, that’s going to make you a star.”
Related: Jack Blocker: The American Idol Sensation Who Gained an Apology from Katy Perry
Abi Carter:
Song: “Somewhere” from West Side Story
Lionel Richie praised, “That was a showstopping moment. It doesn’t get any better than that when you can take it down to silence and kill the show.”
Following these performances, Fantasia Barrino returned to mark the 20th anniversary of her own American Idol victory.
After showcasing some non-competitive performances, host Ryan Seacrest disclosed the first results of the night. Advancing to the final two were Will and Abi.
The night concluded with the announcement of the final results. After a season filled with talent, passion, and show-stopping performances, Abi Carter was declared the new American Idol.
FAQs About ‘American Idol’ Finale 2024
When did the ‘American Idol’ 2024 finale air?
The ‘American Idol’ 2024 finale aired during the same year’s TV season, though the exact date is not specified in the post. Typically, ‘American Idol’ finales occur in May.
Did the judges perform in the finale?
Yes, judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan also performed during the three-hour finale event.
Who were some of the musical guests on the finale?
Guest performers included Hootie and the Blowfish, New Kids on the Block, Jason Mraz, Wynonna Judd, CeCe Winans, Cody Johnson, Seal, James Bey, Bishop Briggs, and season 14 winner Nick Fradiani, among others.
How are the voting results typically announced?
Voting results are usually announced live by the show’s host, Ryan Seacrest, towards the end of the finale episode.
What happens after the winner is announced?
After the winner is announced, they typically release their debut single and may go on to record an album, participate in the ‘American Idol’ tour, and pursue a career in music with the platform and exposure the show has provided.
Conclusion
The conclusion of ‘American Idol’ 2024 marked yet another remarkable moment in the show’s storied history. Audiences around the nation watched as Abi Carter not only captured the title of ‘American Idol’ but also the hearts of many with her awe-inspiring performances. Behind her now is a journey paved with hard work, mentorship from music icons, and the love from hometown roots that has brought her to this pinnacle of success. The finale was a testament to the power of dreams, music, and the impulse to reach for the stars—themes that encapsulate the enduring appeal of ‘American Idol’ itself.