Carrie Underwood Surprises Noah Thompson with Grand Ole Opry Debut Invitation During ‘American Idol’ Season 23 Finale

Noah Thompson Returns to ‘American Idol’ and Receives Career-Defining Moment from Carrie Underwood

The American Idol Season 23 finale, which aired on Sunday, May 18, delivered an unforgettable night packed with music, memories, and emotional surprises. Among the evening’s standout moments was the return of Season 20 winner Noah Thompson, who took the stage once again—this time not as a contestant, but as a guest artist.

Thompson, a Kentucky native, captured America’s heart in 2022 when he unexpectedly auditioned for American Idol after a friend secretly signed him up. His soulful country voice and humble charm earned him the title of champion and launched his career in country music.

Now, three years later, Noah Thompson is making waves with his new EP, Kids Like Me. He appeared on the finale episode to discuss his musical journey and promote the record—at least, that’s what he believed. What he didn’t know was that a life-changing surprise was waiting for him.

As Noah chatted onstage with host Ryan Seacrest and the judges, Carrie Underwood, who previously mentored him during his Idol run, appeared on screen with a heartfelt message.

“You are a very beloved member of our Idol family,” Carrie said. “And now, you’re going to be part of another amazing family—the Grand Ole Opry.”

With that, Underwood personally invited Noah Thompson to make his Grand Ole Opry debut, a milestone moment for any country artist. The crowd erupted in applause as a visibly stunned Noah tried to process the honor.

The 23-year-old singer, clearly emotional, later joked, “I knew my manager had been hiding something from me these past couple of months.”

Noah Thompson’s official Grand Ole Opry debut is scheduled for May 31, marking another major step forward in his rising career.