American Idol has once again wrapped up its highly anticipated season with a new champion emerging.

On Monday, May 11, the acclaimed singing competition series recognised the vocal abilities of 25-year-old Hannah Harper and crowned her the winner of Season 24.

After gaining attention for her original song String Cheese, Harper was crowned champion by Ryan Seacrest following a tight race against finalists Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson.

The electrifying finale episode also featured guest mentor Alicia Keys.

Taking to her Instagram handle shortly after her big win, Harper expressed her heartfelt gratitude to fans for their unwavering support.

“What a wild, beautiful journey this has been. And somehow we’re just getting started,” she said.

The champion added, “Thank you to every single person who believed in me, prayed over me, voted, and helped carry this dream farther than I ever could’ve imagined. Y’all changed my life.”

“I’m beyond thankful for the doors the Lord has opened and for the opportunity to walk this path. I’ll see y’all on the road soon… tour dates coming your way,” she noted, ending the message with a Bible verse.

Who is Hannah Harper?

Harper lived a much more private life before becoming the champion of American Idol 2026.

Raised in Missouri, she started performing gospel and bluegrass music alongside her family band in local churches from a young age and has previously credited Dolly Parton and Shania Twain as her biggest musical inspirations.

Hannah Harper’s journey on American Idol Season 24 quickly resonated with viewers after she spoke honestly about balancing motherhood with her dreams of becoming a professional musician. She tied the knot with Devon Mendenhall in 2018 and is now a proud mother of three boys.