The American Idol 2025 finale is here, and fans across the world are eager to see who will take home the crown in Season 23. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or tuning in for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about how to watch the finale, cast your vote, and relive the biggest moments of the season.
How to Watch the American Idol Finale Live
The grand finale aired live in the U.S. on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT on ABC.
If you missed the live broadcast, don’t worry. You can still catch all the performances and results on the following platforms:
- Hulu – Episodes are available the day after broadcast.
- fuboTV & DIRECTV Stream – Both offer live viewing options with free trials.
- ABC.com – Watch with a valid cable login.
For international viewers, especially in India, the episode aired on May 19 at 5:30 a.m. IST.
How to Vote for Your Favorite Contestant
Voting was open during the live broadcast and ended at the close of the show. Fans had three easy ways to vote (up to 10 votes per method per contestant):
- Online: Visit AmericanIdol.com/vote
- App: Download the American Idol app (iOS & Android)
- Text: Send the contestant’s unique number to 21523 (announced during the show)
Note: Voting is limited to residents of the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Voters must be at least 16 years old.
Who Were the Finalists?
The top three battling for the crown were:
- Breanna Nix – A country-pop powerhouse
- Jamal Roberts – The soulful crooner with emotional depth
- Slater Nalley – A rock-inspired underdog with a cult fanbase
Each performed multiple times during the finale, including special duets with music legends.
Season Highlights
- New Judge Alert: Carrie Underwood joined as a new judge, replacing Katy Perry. Her return to Idol stirred buzz and boosted ratings.
- Memorable Moments: From Disney Night to heartfelt tributes, Season 23 had it all.
- Ratings Rise: Despite some fan backlash over judge critiques, the show gained traction with over 5 million viewers for key episodes.
What’s Next for American Idol?
With Season 23 wrapped up, auditions are now open for Season 24! If you’ve got the voice and the dream, this could be your time to shine.