John Foster and Jamal Roberts have never hit rock bottom — now they’re dominating social media like never before.

Fan favorites John Foster and Jamal Roberts have officially advanced to the Top 7 of American Idol Season 23, solidifying their place among this year’s most talented and compelling contestants. They join Slater Nalley, Thunderstorm Artis, Gabby Samone, Breanna Nix, and Mattie Pruitt, forming a lineup that many fans and critics are calling “one of the strongest in the show’s 23-season history.”

On Monday night, viewers tuned in for the highly anticipated “Judge’s Song Contest” episode, where celebrity judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie selected the songs for each contestant. After the performances, host Ryan Seacrest revealed America’s Top 6: John, Jamal, Slater, Thunderstorm, Gabby, and Breanna. That left Josh King and Mattie Pruitt in the Bottom 2.

In a dramatic twist, the judges chose to save Mattie Pruitt, making Josh King the most recent contestant to be eliminated. His farewell song, “Home” by Michael Bublé, ironically echoed his own departure.

Standout Performances That Stole the Show

John Foster (Age 18, Addis, LA)

Song: “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait
Chosen by: Carrie Underwood
Carrie praised the performance as “absolutely perfect”, adding, “Hearing you sing that song felt comfortable. That was one of your best performances.” Luke Bryan, who had previously doubted John, admitted, “You’re singing better and better every week.”

Jamal Roberts (Age 27, Meridian, MS)

Song: “I Believe” by Fantasia
Chosen by: Lionel Richie
Lionel was visibly moved, declaring, “Your execution of that song had me crying. You’re a phenomenon.” Luke added, “You made tears well up in our eyes. That is God-given.”

Fan Momentum & Online Popularity

Neither John nor Jamal has ever landed in the bottom of the voting results. Their performances consistently top social media charts, and they’re leading fan polls on platforms like Gold Derby, where viewers predict that either John, Jamal, or Slater will win Season 23.

During “Ladies’ Night,” John wowed with “Something to Talk About,” earning 23.64% of the vote, while Jamal impressed with “Undo It,” capturing 18.42%.

Memorable Performances Throughout the Season

John Foster: “In Color,” “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” “Neon Moon,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “I Told You So”

Jamal Roberts: “Tennessee Whiskey,” “Liar,” “Forever,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” “Shout,” “Heal”

What’s Next: Disney Week & Top 5 Reveal

Next week brings a double-dose of Disney magic. The Top 7 contestants will head to Disney World, where they’ll be mentored by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The competition heats up as the Top 5 will be revealed on Sunday, followed by another elimination on Monday, cutting the field down to the Top 3.

Tune In

American Idol airs Sunday and Monday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, with episodes available to stream the next day on Hulu. Stay tuned for more updates and join the conversation in our Reality TV Forum to share who you’re rooting for in this electrifying season!