‘American Idol’ Names Final 2 In Emotional Finale Night Elimination
on May 11, 2026
One American Idol finalist was eliminated halfway through Monday night’s finale episode.
Jordan McCullough, Hannah Harper, and Keyla Richardson made it to the Top 3 after 15 weeks of intense competition. During Monday night’s 3-hour finale episode, each finalist was mentored by Alicia Keys before singing one of her songs.
Then each finalist sang a hometown tribute song in honor of the place where they got their start and the people who have supported their Idol journey. A collaborative performance with Alicia Keys followed as the Top 3 joined her to sing “Lovin’ You.”
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Viewers cast their votes during the first half of the show to determine who would advance to the Top 2. The hopeful sent home in 3rd place is ….
Keyla Richardson.
What’s next for the Top 2?
Jordan McCullough and Hannah Harper will each be tasked with singing their audition song, the song that first introduced them to America and earned them a Golden Ticket. For Hannah Harper, that song is her original tune, “String Cheese.” Jordan McCullough auditioned with “Goodness of God.”
They also sang a duet with one of their own idols. Jordan McCullough will sing with Tori Kelly, and Hannah Harper will perform with Lee Ann Womack.
At the end of tonight’s episode, a new American Idol winner will be crowned. While Hannah Harper is the odds-on favorite to win, Jordan McCullough could pull off a surprise win based on his incredible finale night performances.
One thing is certain – all of the finalists are deserving of the win. They’ve consistently delivered flawless performances week after week, with impressive fan bases backing them. Regardless of who is named the Season 24 American Idol, it won’t be the end of the road for any of the artists who made it to the end.
