Exciting News! American Idol Star John Foster Gets Shocking Offer: To Make His Grand Ole Opry Debut at the CMA Festival Next Week—The Country Music World Reacts to Rising Star Taking the Legends Stage; Fans and Industry Insiders Wonder If Foster’s Big Break

“American Idol” runner-up John Foster is making his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday, June 7. (Photo Credit: John Foster / Facebook)

18-Year-Old John Foster Came In Second Place On Season 23 Of American Idol

Not long after he came in second place on Season 23 of American Idol, John Foster is heading to the Grand Ole Opry!

John was often called the “dark horse” contestant of the season. Judge Luke Bryan initially hesitated to give him a “yes” during the auditions. But after Carrie Underwood asked the 18-year-old country singer to try another song (he chose Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time), Luke flipped his vote from a “no” to a “yes.”

John advanced through Hollywood Week and Idol‘s time in Hawaii before advancing into the Top 20. Then, that’s when he delivered what ended up being his game-changing performance.

During Idol‘s Easter special, John performed his emotional original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” He wrote the song in memory of two of his friends who were killed in a car accident.

John thoroughly endeared himself to American Idol viewers after that. As the weeks progressed, he continued to prove himself with covers of country classics such as “I Told You So,” “Believe,” and “I Cross My Heart.”

When it came down to the end, John, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix were the three artists who advanced to the finale. Breanna ultimately came in third place, John was named the runner-up, and Jamal was crowned the season’s winner.

After the finale aired, John reflected on his Idol journey and expressed his love for his fans. He said:

“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends. I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart – times a million.”

John Foster To Make Debut Opry Appearance During CMA Fest In Nashville

A few days after the finale, John shared that he booked his first post-Idol appearance. He was a surprise addition to the lineup at the Cajun Country Jam, which was held in his home state of Louisiana over Memorial Day weekend.

During the festival, John got the opportunity to sing with Grand Ole Opry member Craig Morgan. After that performance, John took to social media to share some exciting news with his fans. He’s making his Opry debut on June 7!

“The first time I went to the Opry, I fought back tears because I was so overwhelmed with joy,” John said. “As an amateur country music historian, there is no more significant place to my passion (country music) than the Grand Ole Opry. This has been my #1 dream ever since I started music, and now, because of your support, my dream will come true! I will NEVER be able to express my gratitude! Glory be to God!”

Other artists performing at the Opry the same night as John include Bill Anderson, Craig Morgan, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Mark Wills. Tickets to the show can be purchased through the Opry’s official website.

John’s fellow Idol finalist, Breanna Nix, will make her Opry debut just two days before, on June 5. John, Breanna, Jamal, and other Idol standouts will also be in Nashville for a pre-CMA Fest show on June 4. The full festival will kick off on June 5 and last through June 8.

So if you already happen to be in town for CMA Fest, stop by the Opry House to see Breanna and John perform. In the meantime, enjoy their Idol finale performance of “We Are The Champions” with Jamal in the video below.

Congratulations to John Foster and Breanna Nix on their upcoming Opry debuts!