Have you ever wondered how someone stays calm while the whole world is watching? For Hannah Harper, the newest winner of American Idol, the answer wasn’t just her amazing voice; it was her best friend! Even though they were competing to win, Hannah and the runner-up, Jordan McCullough, showed everyone that friendship is more important than a trophy. Before she was even crowned the Season 24 champion on Monday night, Hannah said she was already winning because she had a friend like Jordan by her side.
Behind the bright lights and the loud cheers, Hannah and Jordan shared a bond that was truly special. Hannah even joked that Jordan was like her “therapist!” Whenever the pressure of being on TV felt like too much, Jordan was there to listen and help her breathe. She said that Jordan prayed with her every single week and coached her through the most nervous moments. It shows that even when you are trying to be number one, being kind and supportive is the best way to succeed.
“American Idol” winner Hannah Harper attributes her win to the runner-up!
While their friendship grew, the rest of the country was busy falling in love with Hannah’s story. Before she was a superstar, she was a busy mom of three who grew up singing bluegrass music with her family. She loved music, but she put her big dreams on hold for a long time to take care of her children. When she finally stepped onto the stage, she sang a song she wrote herself called “String Cheese.” It was a sweet song about her life as a mom, and it made her a star almost overnight.
Top 2! Hannah Harper Reprises “String Cheese” Original Audition Song – American Idol Grand Finale
Jordan McCullough had a beautiful story, too. He is a church singer from Tennessee with an angelic voice. He and Hannah became the final two contestants left on the show. Usually, the final two people are very competitive, but Jordan and Hannah chose to be the best of friends instead. They proved that you can work hard for your dreams while still cheering for the person standing right next to you.
When the host, Ryan Seacrest, finally said Hannah’s name, she was overcome with joy. She knew she didn’t get there alone. She had her family, her fans, and her dear friend Jordan by her side. Hannah’s journey from her couch at home to the American Idol stage teaches us that no dream is too big, especially when you have a great friend to help you reach for the stars!