'American Idol' Season 24: Social media pick with viral audition crowned 2026 winner

The singer won during the ABC broadcast after emerging as one of the season’s most popular contestants

Hannah Harper has been crowned the winner of American Idol 2026 following a live three-hour finale that concluded the programme’s 24th season.

The 25-year-old singer defeated finalists Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson during the ABC broadcast after emerging as one of the season’s most popular contestants.

Harper, a stay-at-home mother of three from Willow Springs, Missouri, first attracted national attention with her audition performance of “String Cheese”, an original bluegrass gospel song inspired by postpartum depression.

The audition became one of the most-watched clips in the show’s history, reportedly gaining more than 120 million views across platforms.

Judge Carrie Underwood described the song as “the most relatable song I think I've heard” during the audition stage earlier in the season.

Before appearing on the programme, Harper balanced family life with music, serving as a worship leader for seven years while raising her children.

She initially planned to pursue a career in physical therapy before social media users encouraged her to focus more seriously on singing after she began posting videos on TikTok.

Harper reprised “String Cheese” during the finale and also performed another original track titled “Married Into This Town”.

Judge Luke Bryan praised her artistic consistency throughout the competition, telling the singer, “You're a true artist. You've been a true artist this whole year, from the day that you sang your original song that connected with so many people.”

Speaking after her victory, Harper admitted she became emotional as confetti filled the stage.

“Listen, I didn't know the confetti was falling because I was weeping,” she said.

The finale also featured performances from Alicia Keys, British singer Raye, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Other guest performers included Mötley Crüe, Jason Mraz, Brad Paisley, Nelly and former contestant Clay Aiken.

The latest season also introduced social media voting, which reportedly contributed to Harper’s strong support throughout the competition.