Hannah Harper Crowned Winner of American Idol 2026 in Thrilling Finale
AOL.com • • general
Key Points:
- Hannah Harper was crowned the winner of American Idol 2026 after competing against finalists Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson in the season finale.
- The Top 3 performed a group opening of “Champion” by Carrie Underwood, followed by individual songs mentored by Alicia Keys and hometown tribute performances.
- Keyla Richardson was eliminated after the hometown songs round, leaving Hannah Harper and Jordan McCullough as the final two contestants.
- The finale featured performances by guest musicians including Brad Paisley, Blues Traveler, and Tori Kelly, as well as judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood.
- Hannah Harper closed the show with a reprise of her original song “String Cheese,” securing her victory as the new American Idol for 2026.