‘American Idol’ Crowns Winner
Hannah Harper has been crowned the winner of American Idol Season 24.
Tonight’s live three-hour season finale delivered an unforgettable night of music as audiences voted in favor of Harper. Meanwhile, competitors Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson finished runner-up and in third place, respectively.
The star-studded evening featured Alicia Keys as guest mentor, as well as special performer. Her addition was announced back in late April, as the 17-time Grammy-winning artist coached the Top 3 finalists for the stage and a final chance to earn America’s vote.
Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood also took the stage tonight in a special group performance. The lattermost country singer also performed alongside Mötley Crüe. There were additional performances by Brad Paisley, Cameron Whitcomb, Clay Aiken, En Vogue, Jason Mraz, Lee Ann Womack, Nelly, Shinedown, and Tori Kelly, as well as bands Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms.
Earlier in the season, former Idol finalist Jennifer Hudson returned to the reality singing competition show as a guest judge and mentor, guiding the Top 9 in the Disney Night themed competition.
American Idol saw its biggest season debut this January since Season 20 four years ago. The Ryan Seacrest-hosted talent show previously aired on Sunday nights but moved to Mondays this year.
The ABC show is produced by Fremantle and 19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television. Executive producers include Megan Wolflick, also serving as showrunner, with Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman serving as executive producers for 19 Entertainment. Fremantle distributes the series worldwide.
