Trending Now - Season 24 of American Idol Names Its Champion

WHO:

Deadline - Hannah Harper has been crowned the winner of American Idol Season 24.

E! News - Competitors Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson finished as runner-up and in third place, respectively.

E! News - Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood celebrated during the finale.

E! News - Alicia Keys served as a guest mentor and performer during the finale.

WHAT:

Deadline - The live three-hour season finale delivered an unforgettable night of music.

E! News - Hannah Harper was announced as the winner of the competition series on May 11.

E! News - Hannah Harper became a standout during Season 24 after her original song "String Cheese" debut.

E! News - Clay Aiken debuted his first new single in 18 years, titled "Rewind," during the finale.

WHERE:

Deadline - The finale took place in a live format, though a specific location was not mentioned.

WHEN:

E! News - The winner was announced on May 11.

WHY:

E! News - Carrie Underwood reflected on the competition show's legacy, stating, "American Idol is the ultimate real-life Cinderella story."

HOW:

Deadline - Audiences voted in favor of Hannah Harper during the finale.

(UPDATED May 12, 2026 06:04 UTC)

Hannah Harper has been crowned the winner of American Idol Season 24, with competitors Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson finishing as runner-up and in third place, respectively. The live finale featured an unforgettable night of music, including a special performance by Alicia Keys and the debut of Clay Aiken's first new single in 18 years, titled "Rewind." Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood celebrated the event, with Underwood reflecting on the show's legacy by saying, "American Idol is the ultimate real-life Cinderella story."