Luke Bryan’s “Gut Feeling” Shakes Up American Idol Finale: Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix Face Off as Judges Drop Shocking Truths—Inside the Most Unpredictable Showdown in Idol History!

*Los Angeles, CA* — The stage is set, the spotlights are blinding, and the nation’s heart is pounding as American Idol Season 23 careens toward its most unpredictable finale yet. In a season marked by stunning upsets, viral performances, and a new era of star-making, this year’s Top 3—Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix—are not just contestants. They’re the center of a musical storm that’s left even the judges shaken.

And no one is feeling the tremors more than country superstar and Idol judge Luke Bryan, who this week confessed to PEOPLE that he has a “gut feeling” about one finalist in particular. But if you think that means the results are a foregone conclusion, think again. This season’s finale promises to be a rollercoaster of emotion, talent, and perhaps the biggest twist in Idol history.

Luke Bryan’s Bold Prediction

On Monday, May 12, Bryan—now in his seventh season as a judge—sat down for a candid interview, dropping a bombshell that sent shockwaves through Idol fandom.

“My gut has told me Jamal has… [been] a lead all year,” Bryan, 48, admitted, hinting that Roberts, the soulful powerhouse from Atlanta, has been his secret favorite to win it all. “When you look at every time Breanna gets through, we’re like, ‘She keeps showing up and making it happen.’ And then John Foster just seems to be gaining momentum.”

But Bryan, ever the seasoned performer, knows better than to count his chickens before they hatch. “Even if it’s something that Jamal’s kind of had the reins of, it could change with a little bit of not focus[ing] … so they gotta be focused all the way to the end. The music business never is not like that. You’ve gotta focus every day.”

A Finale Like No Other

This year’s finale is set to be a star-studded affair, with guest performances from legends like Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Holliday, and Josh Groban, alongside pop-punk icons Good Charlotte and Salt-N-Pepa. Even the judges themselves—Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie—will take the stage together, a rare treat for viewers.

But it’s not just the music that has tongues wagging. The real drama is unfolding behind the scenes, as America’s votes loom over three contestants with wildly different journeys.

Jamal Roberts, the early frontrunner, has wowed audiences with his gospel-tinged vocals and magnetic stage presence. But as the finale approaches, some insiders wonder if he’s peaking too soon—or if another contestant could steal his thunder at the last minute.

Breanna Nix, the underdog, has survived elimination week after week, defying odds and critics alike. Her resilience and relatability have made her a fan favorite, and some say her “come from behind” narrative could propel her to a shock victory.

John Foster, meanwhile, is the wildcard. Once doubted by fellow contestants and even some judges, Foster’s recent performances have been nothing short of electric. His original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her” broke records and hit No. 1 on the Billboard Top 100—a first in Idol history for a debut single. Even Carrie Underwood was left speechless, whispering “perfect” as Foster brought the house down with nothing but a microphone and his quiet confidence.

Judges Speak Out: “It’s Not About Talent”

If you thought the winner would be the most talented singer, think again. Judge Lionel Richie, the legendary “Hello” crooner, offered a dose of reality that stunned even the most seasoned Idol watchers.

“It’s an even playing field but it comes down to popularity,” Richie, 75, said bluntly. “How many fans do they have that like them as people? Right now, singing cover songs is great but when they have their own hit records, you start building their career. Right now, they’re falling in love with the artist.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by many in the industry: in the age of social media, likability and relatability can often trump raw vocal power. Who America “likes” the most may matter more than who sings the best.

Carrie Underwood’s Candid Advice: “Star Boot Camp”

Carrie Underwood, Idol’s most successful alum and a judge this season, knows exactly what the finalists are going through. In a rare moment of vulnerability, she opened up about the pressures of the competition.

“We’ve had a condensed season. It was a lot longer when I was on the show. So they’re running to catch up the whole time,” Underwood, 42, explained. “I would imagine they feel more frenzied than I felt about the whole situation. It’s a totally different block out. You’re going to be doing a lot, going back to their own towns and everyone’s going to be on them. This is kind of a taste of what the rest of their career is going to be like. We always call this star boot camp because you learn a lot really fast.”

Her advice? Stay focused, stay humble, and don’t let the whirlwind sweep you away.

Backstage Drama and Shocking Twists

As the finale approaches, rumors are swirling about backstage drama, secret alliances, and even last-minute changes to the performance lineup. Sources say one contestant nearly dropped out due to illness, while another is rumored to have landed a surprise duet with a major pop star. Producers remain tight-lipped, but insiders promise “at least one moment that will break the internet.”

There’s also talk of a surprise “Super Save”—a twist that could allow a previously eliminated contestant to return for a final showdown. If true, this would mark the first time in Idol history that a Top 3 finale could become a Top 4, throwing the entire competition into chaos.

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

For Jamal, John, and Breanna, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner will not only take home a recording contract and a six-figure prize, but also the chance to launch a career in an industry that’s more cutthroat—and more rewarding—than ever before.

But for the millions of fans watching at home, the real prize is the journey. In a world that feels increasingly divided, American Idol has once again reminded us of the power of music to unite, inspire, and surprise.

So who will win? Will Luke Bryan’s “gut feeling” prove prophetic, or will America shock the world with an upset victory? One thing is certain: when the final note is sung and the confetti falls, this will be a finale no one will ever forget.

Tune in Sunday for the most explosive, unpredictable, and unforgettable American Idol finale yet. Your vote could change everything.