‘Idol’ Champ Hannah Harper To Make Her Grand Ole Opry Debut
on May 19, 2026
Hannah Harper Wins American Idol
Hannah Harper will soon take on one of country music’s most revered stages.
On May 11, the Missouri native was crowned the 24th season winner of the fan-favorite singing competition, American Idol! Hannah first caught the attention of judges and viewers with her original song, “String Cheese,” which she sang for her audition.
The ballad reflects on her own struggles with motherhood and postpartum depression. In a recent interview, Hannah revealed that the show’s producers actually discouraged her from auditioning with the song. She told TV Insider:
“They told me to prepare [a] backup because the judges don’t love to hear originals. They want to hear something that they’re familiar with, that they’ve heard before. So I had a backup planned and never had to use it. I was really thankful.”
Ultimately, it was “String Cheese” that earned her three “yes” votes and set her on a path towards the crown.
Hannah Harper Invited To Perform At The Grand Ole Opry
Now, Hannah Harper will celebrate an exciting new milestone in her career when she makes her Grand Ole Opry debut on June 2nd! She joins the lineup alongside Idol judge Carrie Underwood and ACM New Female Artist of the Year, Avery Anna.
For many artists, an invitation to perform at the Opry represents acceptance into the country music community and a connection to generations of legends who graced the stage before them.
Hannah and the other artists will deliver two performances that evening, at 7:00 and 9:30 pm. More performers will be announced at a later date. Tickets can be purchased here.
What’s next for Hannah Harper?
The 25-year-old plans to hit the road soon, now that Idol has wrapped. She shared:
“I knew that I was gonna hit the ground running as soon as I left here. So we’re gonna take two weeks to just chill for a little bit. And then almost every weekend until like September, October, we’re gonna be touring…the String Cheese tour!”
Additionally, Hannah will perform a special set of performances at Dollywood during the theme park’s Harvest Festival on September 30 and October 1.
