The grand finale of American Idol featured a star-studded line-up of artists and past contestants taking the stage to celebrate the singing competition reality series’ twentieth season.
Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Ritchie and Katy Perry performed during the three-hour spectacular, as did James Arthur, Sara Bareilles, Gabby Barrett, Michael Bublé, Deana Carter, Earth, Wind & Fire, Melissa Ethridge, Flo Rida, Ben Platt, Thomas Rhett, Tai Verdes and others.
Originally set to return, Carrie Underwood was unable to perform due to a COVID exposure.
Host Ryan Seacrest made the announcement at the beginning of the episode. He said, “There was a COVID exposure within Carrie Underwood’s group so following protocol, she is unable to perform tonight.”
Luke Bryan joined contestant HunterGirl for a special duet of the Randy Travis hit, I Told You So.
Following Barrett’s performance of her latest single Pick Me Up, eliminated contestant Emyrson Flora joined her for a performance of her chart-topping single The Good Ones.
and Thomas Rhett and Katy Perry debuted the title track off his latest album Where We Started.
Watch the other performances below!
The grand finale took place on Sunday, May 22, where former construction worker Noah Thompson was crowned the 2022 winner.
That’s a wrap on one of the best seasons I’ve been a part of. We’re all very proud of each contestant and excited to see what’s next with our winner @noahthompsonmu1. Love y’all #AmericanIdol
— Luke Bryan (@lukebryan) May 23, 2022
