The American Idol season 24 finale aired on May 11.

Fans were shocked to learn that Hannah Harper emerged as the winner over Jordan McCullough.

Hannah first made an impression during her audition, performing her original song, “String Cheese.”

American Idol fans, give it up for the season 24 winner, Hannah Harper!

After more than three months of the ABC series premiering every Monday night, the American Idol season 24 finale had quite a dramatic outcome on May 11. With Hannah, Keyla Richardson, and Jordan McCullough all vying for the top spot, each belted to their hearts’ content with the hopes of winning the entire season. Couple that with judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie all there to give their feedback and global superstars giving iconic performances, it was a night that the contestants will always remember.

As Keyla came in third during the competition, the final moments of the show were all about Hannah and Jordan. In the end, though, it was Hannah who emerged as champion and won the 2026 season.

“And your #americanidol winner Is... 🤩,” the caption read on Instagram moments after Hannah was revealed as the American Idol season 24 winner.

And plenty of viewers were thrilled about Hannah winning American Idol.

“Congratulations to Hannah! Beautiful soul, beautiful songwriter and singer,” one person wrote on Instagram. “So so well deserved,” said another.

While others made it clear how impressed they were with all three singers. “The top 3 were all winners!! Such an amazing season FULL of talented vocalists,” one person said. “All three singers tonight were amazing,” another commented.

Fans remember that Hannah first made an impression on the judges after she sang a memorable original song, “String Cheese.” After quickly advancing to the next rounds of competition, she eventually landed in the top spot overall. As for Jordan, he also made an impact with his audition, quickly gaining approval of the judges and fans week after week.

Given all the success Hannah had on American Idol, how does she feel about the entire journey? Well, she had an emotional response just hours later on Instagram.

“What a wild, beautiful journey this has been. And somehow we’re just getting started,” she wrote.Thank you to every single person who believed in me, prayed over me, voted, and helped carry this dream farther than I ever could’ve imagined. Y’all changed my life.”

“I’m beyond thankful for the doors the Lord has opened and for the opportunity to walk this path,” she added. “I’ll see y’all on the road soon… tour dates coming your way. 🤍.”

Congrats, Hannah—and we'll be keeping an eye out for what's next from both singers!