WARNING: This article contains major spoilers regarding American Idol Season 23!
Exciting developments have unfolded in American Idol Season 23, with the unveiling of the Top 24 contestants, their respective songs performed during Hawaii Week, and the celebrity mentors who guided them. As Ryan Seacrest returns as host alongside judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, the season introduces a new face at the judging panel: Carrie Underwood. Having triumphed as the champion of Season 4 in 2005, Carrie brings invaluable insight as a former contestant turned global music icon, making her an inspiring replacement for Katy Perry.
With the audition episodes coming to a close, contestants are gearing up for Hollywood Week after which they will face the Final Judgment. This culminated in a live performance for the Top 24 at Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii on February 11 and 12, 2025, with mentors Ashanti and Josh Groban lending their expertise. Notably, Jelly Roll, a unique artist-in-residence, has been instrumental in guiding contestants since the auditions began. Below is a list of the Top 24 contestants along with their song selections and mentors.
| American Idol Season 23 Top 24 Contestants |
|---|
| Amanda Barise |
| Baylee Littrell |
| Breanna Nix |
| Canaan James Hill |
| Ché |
| Desmond Roberts |
| Drew Ryn |
| Filo |
| Gabby Samone |
| Grayson Torrence |
| Isaiah Misailegalu |
| Jamal Roberts |
| John Foster |
| Josh King |
| Kolbi Jordan |
| Kyana Fanene |
| Mattie Pruitt |
| MKY |
| Olivier Bergeron |
| Penny Samar |
| Slater Nalley |
| Thunderstorm Artis |
| Victor Solomon |
| Zaylie Windsor |
Mentors: Ashanti’s Guidance for Contestants
12 Contestants Under Ashanti’s Wing
According to MJSBIGBLOG, twelve contestants received mentorship from the Grammy winner, Ashanti. Highlights include:
- Baylee Littrell (son of Backstreet Boys’ Brian Littrell) performed “Happy”by Pharrell Williams.
- Breanna Nix delivered “Still Rolling Stones”by Lauren Daigle.
- Ché showcased “Master Blaster (Jammin’)”by Stevie Wonder.
- Additionally, Gabby Samone sang “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now”and the remaining contestants each brought their unique flair to the stage.
Mentors: Josh Groban’s Expertise
12 Contestants Guided by Josh Groban
Like Ashanti, Josh Groban also mentored a group of twelve talented singers. His group included:
- Drew Ryn with “I’m With You”by Avril Lavigne.
- Filo, who earned a platinum ticket, performed “Who’s Lovin’ You?”
- Grayson Torrence sang “Ceilings”by Lizzy McAlpine.
- Other contestants เช่น John Foster, Josh King, and Kyana Fanene displayed remarkable range as well.
Familiar Faces: Where Have You Seen Them?
Several Contestants Have Prior Reality TV Experience
Recognizing names from the Top 24 isn’t uncommon, as many of these contestants have participated in other competitive singing shows. Notably:
- Thunderstorm Artis, who secured third place on Season 18 of The Voice, and Victor Solomon, who placed fifth in the show’s 20th season.
- Drew Ryn ended up sixth on The X Factor USA, while MKY competed on Boy Band.
- Olivier Bergeron showcased his talent in Canada’s Star Académie.
This blend of experience among the contestants may create a competitive edge as they progress in the live performances. With a versatile range of talent, this season promises something captivating for all music fans. Unfortunately, following the Hawaii Week performances, four contestants will face elimination after the initial viewer vote, heightening the thrill as the competition unravels the frontrunners.
Stay tuned for more incredible moments as American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC.