When Abi Carter was announced as the winner, tears flowed from both her and Perry, who had called her “angelic” throughout the season.
“American Idol” has crowned a new champion.
A 21-year-old musician Abi Carter from Indio, California, won the popular vote to become the winner of “American Idol” Season 22 during Sunday night’s finale.
A 23-year-old musician Will Moseley from Hazelhurst, and Georgia, and Jack Blocker, a 25-year-old graphic designer from Dallas, Texas, were the runners-up.
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The star-studded three-hour finale featured performances by Jon Bon Jovi, 2004 “Idol” winner Fantasia Barrino, Jason Mraz, Wynonna Judd, Seal, and New Kids on the Block. Judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan, along with host Ryan Seacrest, also appeared, marking Perry’s final episode after seven seasons.
Abi’s victory seemed likely early on when her first performance received prolonged applause, reducing her to tears. Bryan struggled to speak over the cheering crowd. A pre-recorded video message from Billie Eilish further boosted her confidence. “I wish you nothing but the best,” said Eilish. “I’m here to support you, and I love ya.”
Abi had captivated judges and viewers since her audition with Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” earning her a platinum ticket. Bryan even predicted, “That may be the winner of ‘American Idol.’”
When Abi Carter was announced as the winner, tears flowed from both her and Perry, who had called her “angelic” throughout the season. Abi then performed the Eilish song that had started her “Idol” journey.
The finale also featured a tribute to Perry, with the Top 12 female contestants performing a medley of her hits. Abi, Kaibrienne Richins, and Emmy Russell started with “Teenage Dream,” followed by McKenna Breinholt and Jayna Elise with “Dark Horse.” Mia Matthews and Julia Gagnon joined for “California Gurls.”
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Perry, enjoying a slice of pizza, showed her appreciation by climbing onto the judges’ table, with Bryan and Richie helping her down. She wore a dress incorporating faces of contestants from her seven seasons as a judge, including a dramatic duet with Jack Blocker of “What Makes A Woman,” performed while being elevated above the stage.
After the show, Perry explained that the faces on her dress were from the Top 24 of each season she judged. “It was just to show how much these kids have really lifted me up,” she said.