American Idol 2025: Top 7 Performances, Live Results, and Emotional Mother’s Day Tributes

The Top 7 contestants of American Idol Season 23 returned to the stage on May 11, 2025, following a heartfelt visit to Disneyland with their families. In a historic twist, ABC aired two back-to-back Disney Nights for the first time in the show’s history, as the race intensifies toward next week’s highly anticipated finale.

During the two-hour live show, each contestant performed a Disney-themed song tied to personal stories, family bonds, and Mother’s Day tributes. Viewers had less than two hours to cast their votes, with host Ryan Seacrest revealing the Top 5 vote-getters at the end of the show.

LIVE RESULTS: Who Advanced to the Top 5 of American Idol 2025?

After a staggering 20 million votes—five million more than the previous week—the following five contestants were announced as safe and moving forward:

• Slater Nalley
• Breanna Nix
• John Foster
• Jamal Roberts
• Thunderstorm Artis

That means Mattie Pruitt and Gabby Samone were eliminated. The Top 5 will now perform again on May 12, 2025, in a crucial live episode.

Lin-Manuel Miranda Mentors the Top 7 for Disney Performances

The contestants worked closely with Disney Night guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda, who guided them through powerful interpretations of iconic Disney songs:

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

Praised by the judges for her confidence and vocal clarity.

Jamal Roberts – “Go the Distance” from Hercules

Received a standing ovation and was compared to Otis Redding by Lionel Richie for his timeless vocal style.

Breanna Nix – “Reflection” from Mulan

Delivered a poised, emotionally resonant performance that brought Carrie Underwood to tears.

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

Captivated the crowd with his Louisiana roots and cowboy charisma—his stage presence earned roaring applause.

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

Despite a lyrical stumble, impressed judges with his storytelling and vocal identity.

Mattie Pruitt – “Remember Me” from Coco

Showcased her youthful purity and growth on the Idol stage.

Thunderstorm Artis – “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas

His powerful, orchestral arrangement earned him the night’s triple standing ovation.

Top 7 Celebrate Mother’s Day With Emotional Dedications

In the second half of the show, contestants honored their mothers and maternal figures with touching performances and personal stories:

• Breanna Nix sang “Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina, bringing the judges and audience to tears.
• Gabby Samone delivered “Home” from The Wiz, celebrating her mother who raised eight children.
• Slater Nalley played “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright” by Bob Dylan, honoring his mom’s life lessons.
• Jamal Roberts performed “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke in tribute to his late stepmother, earning praise for his soulful delivery.
• Mattie Pruitt honored both her mom and stepmom with “Those Kind of Women” by Lauren Alaina.
• Thunderstorm Artis performed his original love song “Out of the Blue” for his wife and mother of his children.
• John Foster closed the show with “Believe” by Brooks & Dunn, a moving dedication to his mother Amanda—earning a standing ovation and emotional response from all three judges.