American Idol season 22 champion crowned Abi Carter after breathtaking finale performance

Abi Carter has emerged as the newest American Idol champion after a three-hour finale on Sunday, May 19. The singer from Indio, California, secured the title with her moving performance of an original song, "This Isn't Over," followed by a rendition of Billie Eilish "What Was I Made For?"

Carter's journey to victory began with her audition, where she impressed the judges with her performance of the same Eilish song from the Barbie film. Since then, she has consistently wowed audiences and judges alike, earning high praise for her emotional delivery and powerful vocals.

The season 22 finale saw Carter competing against Will Moseley and Jack Blocker, who ultimately placed second and third, respectively. Carter's final performance of "Hello" by Adele garnered particular acclaim from the judges, with Lionel Richie calling it her best performance yet.

Throughout the season, Carter's talent and potential for greatness were evident to the judges. Katy Perry commended her for singing from the heart, while Luke Bryan remarked that her audition performance may have been worthy of winning the entire competition.

With her victory, Abi Carter has cemented her place as the newest American Idol and is poised for a bright future in the music industry. The show airs on ABC.