American Idol 2025 Disney Night Recap: Top 7 Shine With Emotion, Heart, and Star Power

With family tributes, Disney magic, and jaw-dropping vocals, the American Idol Season 23 Top 7 brought unforgettable performances on May 11, 2025.

After an emotional trip to Disneyland with their families, the Top 7 contestants of American Idol 2025 returned to the stage for a two-hour live Disney Night special on May 11, 2025. For the first time in show history, ABC aired two back-to-back Disney-themed episodes, heightening the stakes as contestants vied for a coveted spot in the Top 5.

The broadcast aired live coast-to-coast, with voting open for under two hours, and host Ryan Seacrest revealing the Top 5 at the end of the night. Contestants worked with guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda, performing iconic Disney songs inspired by the women who raised them. The result? An evening filled with emotional storytelling, flawless vocals, and unforgettable moments.

Top 7 Disney Night Highlights – American Idol 2025

Gabby Samone – “How Far I’ll Go” (Moana)

Baltimore’s Gabby Samone delivered a stunning vocal performance of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “How Far I’ll Go”. Miranda shared the inspiration behind the song—pursuing an artistic dream far from home—something Gabby deeply connected with. The 23-year-old turned to face the crowd mid-song, delivering crystal-clear vocals that had Carrie Underwood saying, “Your voice was made for songs like that.” Luke Bryan praised the clarity of her delivery, and Lionel Richie simply said he loved every second.

Jamal Roberts – “Go the Distance” (Hercules)

Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old father of three, performed “Go the Distance” in an iridescent suit that matched the emotional weight of the moment. Drawing strength from the lyrics, Roberts embodied vulnerability and resilience. All three judges gave him a standing ovation, with Richie saying, “You remind me of Otis Redding.” Carrie Underwood added, “You always find a way to fit yourself into every song.”

Breanna Nix – “Reflection” (Mulan)

Breanna Nix, the 25-year-old mom from Texas, brought elegance and power to “Reflection”. Wearing a flowing gold-and-cream gown, she moved from soft vulnerability to a booming chorus with ease. Luke Bryan called it a “perfect choice,” while Richie noted her “poise and grace.” Underwood, holding back tears, said, “You are exactly where you belong.”

John Foster – “Almost There” (The Princess and the Frog)

In a gold suit jacket and cowboy hat, 18-year-old John Foster brought Louisiana pride to life with his rendition of “Almost There.” From the first finger snap to the final note, he lit up the stage with charisma. The audience erupted in cheers, prompting Lionel Richie to laugh: “The crowd said it all for me.” Underwood praised his authenticity, and Bryan said simply: “Charisma, charisma, charisma.”

Slater Nalley – “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” (The Lion King)

After admitting he was starstruck by Lin-Manuel Miranda, 17-year-old Slater Nalley put a country-rock spin on the classic “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Despite forgetting some lyrics at the start, he recovered gracefully. Luke Bryan applauded his resilience, and Richie called him a “storyteller.” Underwood praised the joy he showed working with Miranda.

Mattie Pruitt – “Remember Me” (Coco)

Mattie Pruitt, the youngest contestant at 16, performed “Remember Me” as a tribute to her loved ones back in Tennessee. Dressed in a magenta gown and seated at center stage, her purity of tone brought Luke Bryan to his feet. Richie said he’s amazed by her growth, and Underwood added, “That was a reminder of why you’re here.”

Thunderstorm Artis – “Colors of the Wind” (Pocahontas)

Thunderstorm Artis closed the night with a powerful version of “Colors of the Wind” backed by an orchestral quartet. His storytelling, vocal artistry, and heartfelt delivery earned a triple standing ovation. Miranda was visibly moved, calling his voice “incredible.” Carrie Underwood named it her “favorite arrangement of the night.”

What’s Next on American Idol 2025?

With the Top 5 revealed at the end of the episode, the competition now heads toward the grand finale. Fans were asked to vote quickly, with less than two hours during the live show to cast their ballots. As excitement builds for the final showdown, Foster, Roberts, Samone, Nix, and others continue to make compelling cases for why they belong in the finale.