The wait is over! The biggest night in television is almost here, and we are ready to crown our next superstar. The American Idol 2026 Grand Finale is happening this Monday, May 11, and it’s going to be a massive three-hour party starting at 8 PM ET on ABC.
Our final three—Hannah Harper, Keyla Richardson, and Jordan McCullough—have survived every elimination, and now they face one last night of performances. To help them out, the amazing Alicia Keys is returning as a guest mentor! She will also perform to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her famous album, Songs in A Minor. Plus, original judge Paula Abdul will be there to give her expert advice one more time.
Alicia Keys On Idol
The stage will be packed with famous faces, including:
- Tori Kelly & Jason Mraz: Two pop stars who have both been mentors and friends to Idol singers.
- Blues Traveler & Gin Blossoms: Classic rock bands with hits that everyone loves to sing along to.
- Lee Ann Womack: A country music legend famous for the song “I Hope You Dance.”
- Mötley Crüe & Nelly: Bringing some heavy rock and hip-hop energy to the finale!
The best part of the finale is seeing the finalists sing with their heroes. Here is the real lineup for the big duets:
- Hannah Harper is living her dream by performing a powerhouse duet with country icon Lee Ann Womack.
- Keyla Richardson is bringing the “vibe” to the stage with the incredibly talented Jason Mraz.
- Jordan McCullough is going bigger than anyone else! He is performing a special duet with Tori Kelly, and we hear he is also teaming up with fellow contestant Daniel Stallworth for a performance that will bring the house down.
Top 3
It’s not just the Top 3 performing! Many of the singers we loved earlier this season are coming back for one last bow. You’ll see Rae, Braden Rumfelt, and even Cameron Whitcomb (a high-energy favorite from Season 20) hitting the stage. Also, keep an eye out for Chris Tungseth, the “vibey” singer from Minnesota, who is rumored to be doing a special performance with Daniel Stallworth!
This three-hour event will feature “short films” about the finalists’ journeys, along with plenty of surprises. Make sure to tune in this Monday to see who takes the crown!