American Idol: Hannah Harper wins season 24

“American Idol” shocks judges and contestants with “truly unprecedented” cliffhanger

Another American Idol season has come to an end after a remarkable finale.

host Ryan Seacrest announced Hannah Harper as winners of the competition series on May 11th, as jurors Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie And Carrie Underwood celebrated. Hannah, who became a standout actress in season 24 after debuting with the original song “String Cheese,” secured the top spot ahead of the finalist Jordan McCulloughas well as Keyla Richardsonwho had been eliminated earlier in the night.

Of course, in true Idol fashion, it was a star-studded finale Alicia Keys Joins Luke, Lionel and Carrie as guest mentor and cast member. (Brad Paisley, In fashion, Nelly And Tori Kelly In addition to the former Idol contestant, they were also among the artists who took the stage during the episode Clay Aikenwho debuted the song “Rewind,” his first new single in 18 years.)

Ahead of the finale, many Idol legends — including Carrie and Ryan — reflected on the competition show’s decades-long legacy.

“American Idol is the ultimate real-life Cinderella story,” Idol season 4 winner Carrie shared in an interview with Good Morning America published May 8. “I learned so much on the show that I prepared myself for everything that would follow.”