American Idol Results Tonight 2023, Who Won American Idol?
by Aishwarya R
Updated May 22, 2023
American Idol 2023
The twenty-first season of the beloved reality show singing competition, American Idol, premiered on February 19, 2023, filling hearts with anticipation and joy. Returning once again to grace the stage were the familiar faces of Ryan Seacrest as the charismatic host and the incredible judging panel consisting of the talented Katy Perry, the country music sensation Luke Bryan, and the legendary Lionel Richie.
The journey began with auditions, and this season brought back the much-loved Idol Across America virtual auditions program, which had captured hearts in the previous two seasons. From August 3 to September 14, 2022, aspiring contestants had the opportunity to showcase their talents remotely. Additionally, open-call auditions were held, allowing passionate individuals to pursue their dreams of becoming the next American Idol. From this vast pool of talent, the producers carefully handpicked the deserving contestants who were then granted the opportunity to audition before the esteemed panel of judges.
A special highlight of this season was the return of the coveted "platinum ticket" introduced in the previous season. During the auditions, three exceptional contestants were awarded this prestigious ticket, which granted them direct advancement to the second round of Hollywood Week. They were also given the privilege to choose their partners for the exhilarating Duet Challenge, a unique opportunity to showcase their chemistry and musical prowess.
Meanwhile, during the American Music Awards, three more contestants who were set to embark on their Hollywood Week journey were presented with a chance to win a fourth platinum ticket. The deserving recipients of these remarkable opportunities were Tyson Venegas, Kaylin Hedges, Cam Amen, and Elijah McCormick. The thrilling Hollywood Week took place from December 4 to 7, 2022, at the renowned Los Angeles Theatre in the heart of the entertainment capital. This season introduced the captivating Performance Challenge, replacing the traditional Genre Challenge.
The contestants were divided into three categories: "Confidence," "Songwriting," and "Stage Presence." Each category was mentored by two former Idol alumni, who generously shared their wisdom and guidance. Clay Aiken and David Archuleta mentored the Confidence group, Catie Turner and Phillip Phillips coached the Songwriting category, and Jordin Sparks and Justin Guarini imparted their expertise in Stage Presence. After each group performed, the judges carefully deliberated and made their decisions, shaping the future of these talented individuals. Those who progressed to the next round were then tasked with the electrifying Duet Challenge.
In the spirit of collaboration, the Duet Challenge saw the platinum ticket holders selecting their partners, while the judges thoughtfully paired the remaining contestants. With only twelve hours to prepare, including vocal coaching, stage rehearsals, and valuable advice from the judges, the duets poured their hearts and souls into their performances. The ones who rose above the challenge and delivered awe-inspiring duets advanced to the highly anticipated Showstopper Round.
Filmed on December 11, 2022, the Showstopper round was a magical evening filled with mesmerizing performances. The top fifty-five contestants (thirty-five of which were aired) graced the stage, captivating the judges and a live audience at the prestigious Los Angeles Theatre. The following day, the judges faced the arduous task of narrowing down the talented pool of contestants to a remarkable twenty-six in the emotional Final Judgment. Each performer showcased their unique style and artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed their extraordinary talent.
American Idol Results Tonight 2023
Here we share everything about American Idol Finale 2023:-
Megan Danielle – Embracing Faith and Overcoming Doubt
Song Choice: "God Whispered Your Name"
In a heartwarming moment with her mentor Keith, Megan opens up about her struggles with confidence and shares the importance of her faith. Keith acknowledges her beautiful heart and encourages her resilience, reminding her that strength can arise even from brokenness. Megan takes the stage with a pleasant mid-tempo song, but unfortunately, it doesn't fully showcase her soaring vocals.
The judges, however, are moved to their feet, offering a standing ovation. It seems they will be on their feet frequently throughout the night. Lionel praises Megan's innate ability to infuse her voice with emotion, loving the heartfelt cry in her delivery. Katy applauds the "new" version of Megan, feeling their job as mentors is fulfilled. Luke notes her flawless execution while staying true to her unique style.
Iam Tongi – Cherishing Precious Memories
Song Choice: "Making Memories of Us"
Honoring his late father, who adored Keith Urban, Iam selects one of his parents' wedding songs. The anticipation builds as Iam delivers a sweet and genuine rendition, effortlessly making the song his own.
The judges rise in unison, and the crowd chants Iam's name. Katy confesses that she had to reach for a tissue, expressing how deeply Iam's performance moved her. Luke acknowledges Iam's natural God-given gift, declaring it one of his favorite moments of the entire season. Lionel hails Iam as an incredible storyteller with exceptional delivery.
Colin Stough – Nerves, Growth, and Solid Performance
Song Choice: "Stupid Boy"
Facing nerves while performing in front of Keith, Colin impresses his mentor with subtle changes to the song's melody. Though starting slowly, Colin gains momentum in the second chorus. However, his performance falls slightly short of his personal best, displaying some pitchiness.
Luke commends Colin's growth throughout the competition, celebrating the distance he has traveled on this journey. Lionel appreciates Colin's newfound attitude and reminds him to savor the ride, emphasizing their immense pride. Katy playfully quips, "That was tenderoni pepperoni."
The Top 3 Dedicate Songs to Their Hometowns
Megan Danielle – Embracing Home and Belonging
Song Choice: "Faithfully" by Journey
Megan's hometown dedication showcases her family diner where her mom "fires" her, a visit to her old high school in Douglasville, Georgia, memories of her late paw paw, and a thrilling car race—a shared family passion. The day concludes with a heartfelt concert at her high school's sports field.
Megan truly shines with her song choice, delivering a powerful ballad that allows her to connect deeply and express profound emotion. The arrangement retains its grandeur without being overly influenced by country elements. Megan showcases her versatility and range, culminating in impressive, pop-inspired power notes.
Lionel reflects on the concept of divine plans, Katy continues shedding tears while clutching her little paper triangle, and assures Megan that she is exactly where she is meant to be. Luke, overcome with emotion, declares the ending of the song as one of the most remarkable moments of the entire season.
Iam Tongi – Embracing His Island Roots
Song Choice: "Cool Down" by Kolohe Kai
Amidst a traditional Hawaiian welcome, Iam finds solace on the island he considers home, despite his family relocating to Seattle. He visits the high school he would have graduated from, receiving an honorary diploma and expressing his desire to never have left. Performing to a crowd of 14,000 at the Turtle Bay resort, Iam astounds fans as Jack Johnson joins him on stage. Season 3 alum Jasmine Trias also graces the event, reminding Lionel that Hawaiian finalists have graced the show before.
Iam captivates the audience with a breezy island-flavored song, "Cool Down," perfectly honoring his cultural roots. The reggae beat resonates harmoniously with his homegrown spirit, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Katy commends Iam for representing his culture and bringing it to the forefront of American Idol. Luke praises his ability to enter the zone of island music and delivers a stellar performance. Lionel acknowledges Iam's natural gift and predicts he will spread his talent across the globe.
Colin Stough – Embracing His Hometown and Delivering Powerful Vocals
Song Choice: "Either Way" by Chris Stapleton
Returning to Amory, Mississippi, Colin is welcomed by his eagerly awaiting family. Colin and his grandfather embark on exhilarating motorcycle rides and reunite with his beloved horses. The heartfelt visit to his high school is followed by a vibrant parade and the presentation of the key to the city. The night culminates with a memorable performance at Hatley High School, where a surviving member of Lynyrd Skynyrd joins him on stage for a rendition of "Simple Man."
Unleashing his raspy vocals, Colin embraces a mournful ballad, "Either Way," perfectly suited to his musical style. The stripped-down arrangement allows him to delve deep into the song, captivating listeners. Luke expresses his amazement, recognizing Colin's immense growth and surpassing his initial expectations. Lionel applauds Colin's exceptional performance, affirming his stellar delivery. Katy wholeheartedly embraces the musical gift Colin shared, acknowledging that the song resides perfectly within his "sweet spot."
Lucy Love and TLC – Nostalgic Performances
The iconic 90s girl group TLC takes the stage with Lucy Love, exuding pure admiration for the legendary trio. They grace the audience with unforgettable renditions, including their massive hit "Waterfalls," delighting fans with a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Zachariah Smith and REO Speedwagon's Kevin Cronin – Timeless Collaboration
Joined by REO Speedwagon's Kevin Cronin, Zachariah performs the classic hit "Take it on the Run." The song choice perfectly aligns with Zachariah's style and showcases his undeniable talent. As Ryan announces REO Speedwagon's upcoming nationwide tour, the performance leaves the audience craving more.
A Hilarious Glimpse into Colin's World and Memorable Collaboration with Zachariah
A humorous video segment playfully teases Colin's occasionally unintelligible mumbling, highlighting the fact that his singing talent is a stroke of luck. The lighthearted banter adds a touch of fun to the evening. Following the clip, Zachariah and REO Speedwagon's Kevin Cronin share the stage, treating the audience to a remarkable collaboration of the classic hit "Take it on the Run." The performance epitomizes the type of song that perfectly suits Zachariah's style and leaves the crowd yearning for more.
The Final Showdown: Iam Tongi vs. Megan Danielle
Colin Stough's Unexpected Elimination
As Iam Tongi, Megan Danielle, and Colin Stough stand together on the stage, the tension builds. The moment of truth has arrived. With over 13 million votes cast, the first contestant to secure a spot in the Top 2 is announced: Iam Tongi. The suspense continues as the final person voted through is revealed to be Megan Danielle, leaving Colin Stough shocked and eliminated from the competition.
The unexpected turn of events surprises many, as Colin's original single, "I Still Talk to Jesus," impresses with its quality, co-written by season 18 alum Francisco Martin, who also penned Iam's song. The audience anticipated a Francisco Faceoff, but fate had a different plan in store.
The Final Two: Iam Tongi and Megan Danielle
The stage is now set with Iam Tongi and Megan Danielle as the ultimate contenders for the American Idol crown. They stand side by side, ready to embark on the last leg of their journey.
Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson's Duet
Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson, both signed to the BMG label, which releases Idol music, share a powerful duet titled "Save Me." After the electrifying performance, Lainey gracefully exits the stage, making room for Oliver Steele, who joins Jelly Roll for a stunning rendition of "Need a Favor." Oliver's fierce delivery captivates the audience, showcasing a side of him that could have shone brighter during the competition.
Kylie Minogue's Mesmerizing Performance with Nutsa
International superstar Kylie Minogue graces the stage, captivating the crowd with her new song, "Padum Padum." Following her mesmerizing solo, she is joined by Nutsa for a dynamic collaboration. Nutsa, embracing her inner diva, unleashes an incredible performance of "Can't Get You Out of My Head," leaving the audience in awe of her talent and charisma. While Kylie's worldwide stardom may not have fully translated to the US, her immense talent is undeniable.
Lionel Richie and the Top 12 Take the Stage
Accompanied by a video recap of memorable moments, Lionel Richie sits at the piano and serenades the audience with his timeless hit, "Sail On." As the performance progresses, he rises from the piano, and the entire Top 12 join him on stage to deliver an unforgettable rendition, celebrating their collective journey on American Idol.
Keith Urban's Triumphant Return
Keith Urban returns to the American Idol stage, captivating the audience with his new single, "Wild Hearts." Although his mentorship sessions with the Top 3 were relatively brief, his musical prowess shines through in his performance. Some may even welcome the idea of Keith taking a permanent seat on the judging panel if Luke were to depart.
Iam Tongi's Emotional Duet with James Blunt
Joined by James Blunt, Iam Tongi delivers a heartfelt rendition of "Monster," the song that garnered him millions of streams and marked the beginning of his remarkable American Idol journey. The emotionally charged performance leaves Katy wiping away tears with her triangle. Overwhelmed by the intense emotions, Iam breaks down, and even James is visibly moved. The power of the song resonates deeply, evoking memories for anyone who has held a parent's hand during their final moments. The profound impact of the performance leaves everyone in the room moved to their core.
Ellie Goulding and Tyson Venegas Bring the Energy
Ellie Goulding takes the stage, delivering a captivating performance of "Miracle" accompanied by an infectious dance beat. Joining her is the talented Tyson Venegas, who showcases his skills in a thrilling rendition of Ellie's chart-topping hit, "Burn." Ellie's latest album, "Higher than Heaven," is now available for fans to enjoy.
Heartwarming Family Moments with Ryan
Ryan Seacrest takes a moment to connect with the families seated in the audience, engaging in heartwarming conversations and sharing touching moments.
Megan Danielle and Lauren Daigle's Soulful Collaboration
Lauren Daigle surprises Megan Danielle once again, this time with a joint performance on the Idol stage. Lauren begins by captivating the audience with her Christian song, "These are the Days." Megan then joins her, and together, they deliver a soul-stirring rendition of "Thank God I Do," leaving the audience in awe of their powerful voices and undeniable chemistry.
Luke Bryan and Colin Stough's Country Connection
American Idol judge Luke Bryan takes center stage to perform his latest single, "But I Got a Beer in My Hand." While Luke's songs may not resonate with everyone, he captivates the audience with his undeniable charm. In a special moment, Luke and Colin Stough join forces for a live duet of "Slow Hand" by Conway Twitty (And the Pointer Sisters), showcasing their shared love for country music.
Fun Clip and Jazmine Sullivan's Dynamic Duet with Wé Ani
The Top 12 contestants come together in a light-hearted clip, playfully mocking Iam's memorable encounter with a fly during one of his performances. Following the clip, Jazmine Sullivan takes the stage, delivering a powerful rendition of "Bust the Windows out Your Car." Joined by Wé Ani, the talented duo delivers an electrifying performance, with Wé confidently holding her own alongside the R&B queen.
Lainey Wilson, Marybeth Byrd, and Warren Peay's Solid Performance
Lainey Wilson returns to the stage, bringing her hit song "Heart Like a Truck" to life. Joining her are Marybeth Byrd and Warren Peay, creating a dynamic trio that captivates the audience with their stellar performance. Despite Katy Perry's absence from her seat, she is likely preparing for her own upcoming performance.
Haven Madison and Katy Perry's Memorable Duet
Haven Madison has the honor of joining Katy Perry for a duet, where they perform Haven's original song, "I Still Need You." Katy's contestant duets are known for their incredible moments, and this performance is no exception. Seated atop a piano, the two deliver a lovely and heartfelt rendition, with Katy ensuring Haven shines in her own right.
Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken's 20th Anniversary Celebration
Marking 20 years since their memorable American Idol season 2 finale, Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken return to the Idol stage. The two talented singers, who have maintained a strong friendship over the years, deliver a captivating rendition of "The Impossible Dream" from Man of La Mancha. As the song progresses, the current Top 2, Iam and Megan, join them on stage, creating a powerful full-circle moment.
Surprise Disney Cruise for Megan and Iam
In a surprise twist, Megan and Iam are both awarded a Disney Cruise, adding an extra element of excitement to their American Idol journey. Though it may not be a Ford car, the unexpected prize brings joy to the deserving finalists.
The Top 2's Final Performances and Voting Closure
After a clip showcasing the Top 3 recording their winners' singles, the Top 2 contestants take the stage for their last performances before voting closes. Megan Danielle delivers "Dream Girl," a song co-written by Season 17 alum Laci Kaye Booth, creating a face-off between American Idol alums from different seasons. Meanwhile, Iam Tongi presents "I'll Be Seeing You," a powerful and moving song penned solely by Season 18 alum Francisco Martin. With this performance, Iam solidifies his journey of grief and triumph, making him a strong contender for the title. If he doesn't win, it would be the biggest upset in American Idol history, surpassing even the iconic Clay and Ruben finale.
Who won American Idol?
In a heart-stopping finale that left viewers on the edge of their seats, American Idol 2023 reached its thrilling conclusion. Lionel Richie, the seasoned judge, affectionately referred to the panel as the "parents" of the Top 2, brimming with pride. Amidst the electric atmosphere, Katy Perry's imagination soared as she envisioned Megan's paw paw and Iam's late father, united in celestial harmony, beaming down on their children's resounding success.
As the anticipation mounted, the moment arrived, and with a commanding presence, Tom, the show's host, dramatically dimmed the lights, setting the stage for the grand announcement. The nation had spoken through their votes, and the climactic revelation was imminent. With bated breath, the crowd held their collective breaths.
And then, the proclamation echoed through the airwaves, sending shockwaves of excitement throughout the venue. The winner of American Idol 2023, capturing the hearts of millions, emerged triumphant: Iam Tongi! The audience erupted in a thunderous roar, their adulation raining down upon the deserving victor. But the surprises did not end there.
In a twist that left fans astounded, Megan Danielle, the exceptional talent, secured the runner-up position. The outcome defied expectations, as speculation had swirled around Colin, who some believed had a real chance at claiming the ultimate prize. Yet, destiny had other plans, favoring Megan as she clinched second place in a nail-biting finish.
Iam Tongi, the newly crowned American Idol, seized the stage, exuding an aura of undeniable star power. His captivating voice soared through the air, resonating with the hearts of his ardent supporters. The entire Top 12, brimming with joy and camaraderie, joined him in a jubilant celebration, infusing the finale with an electrifying energy that left no doubt about the immense talent assembled before them.
While Iam's ascent to victory may have seemed inevitable since his awe-inspiring audition, the night was an exhilarating rollercoaster ride, filled with twists and turns. Even the most devoted fans found themselves caught off guard by the unpredictable nature of American Idol. It was a night of dreams realized, hopes shattered, and the indomitable spirit of music that keeps us all captivated.
With each step of the journey, American Idol continued to touch the lives of countless individuals, igniting dreams and inspiring hope. As the competition progressed, it became clear that this season was not just about finding the next singing sensation, but about celebrating the human spirit and the power of music to unite us all.
American Idol Results Tonight 2023 - FAQs
The twenty-first season of American Idol premiered on February 19, 2023.
Ryan Seacrest returned as the host, while Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie returned as the judges.
The auditions were held through the Idol Across America virtual auditions program, which allowed contestants to audition remotely. There were also open-call auditions for aspiring singers.
The "platinum ticket" was a special opportunity given to deserving contestants. It allowed them to bypass certain rounds and directly advance to the second round of Hollywood Week. They also had the privilege of choosing their duet partners for the Duet Challenge.
In this season, the Genre Challenge was replaced with the Performance Challenge, consisting of three categories: "Confidence," "Songwriting," and "Stage Presence." Each category had former Idol alumni as mentors, guiding the contestants. The judges made their decisions based on the performances in these categories, shaping the next stages of the competition.