Hannah Harper Takes the Crown: ‘American Idol’ Season 24 Finale Shines Bright

Hannah Harper snagged the title of champion on “American Idol” Season 24, leaving the competition in her dust.

The 25-year-old stay-at-home mom triumphed over Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson, who took second and third place, respectively, during a live three-hour finale that had fans buzzing.

With this victory, Harper becomes the first female country artist to win since Carrie Underwood, who claimed her own crown back in 2005. Talk about a comeback!

After her big win, Harper gushed to USA Today, “I’m a puddle right now. All the sacrifices have been made [by my family] to make this happen. Had it not been for my husband… that poor man has sacrificed his entire life.”

She continued, “Every part of normalcy he had – to uproot life and bring our whole family here and live out of a hotel for two months – just so I could do this meant everything to me. I don’t know how I’ll ever repay him for that,” referring to her husband, Devon Mendenhall, who left his law enforcement career to support her dream.

“He’s not the only one; my parents also. I just feel like my village is growing now,” she added, clearly overwhelmed with gratitude.

The finale was a spectacle of star power, featuring electrifying performances from guest mentor Alicia Keys and judges Luke Bryan, Underwood, and Lionel Richie, who belted out a trio rendition of Richie’s classic “Deep River Woman.”

Mötley Crüe rocked the stage alongside Underwood for a two-song set that included “Home Sweet Home” and “Kickstart My Heart.”

Other musical heavyweights like Brad Paisley, Cameron Whitcomb, Clay Aiken (who was the runner-up in Season 2), En Vogue, Jason Mraz, Lee Ann Womack, Nelly, Shinedown, and Tori Kelly (a Season 9 contestant) also graced the stage throughout the night. Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms added to the lineup, making it a night to remember.

Harper captured hearts from her very first performance on “American Idol,” where she delivered an original song about postpartum depression titled “String Cheese.”

Underwood was particularly taken with Harper, telling her, “You might be my favorite person that’s walked through those doors in the past three days. You’re gorgeous. You look famous already.”

The “Before He Cheats” singer even drew parallels between herself and Harper during episode 8, saying, “You remind me of myself when I was on the show.”

Catch all the drama and talent of “American Idol” Season 24 now streaming on Hulu.