American Idol top 3 revealed: Hannah Harper, Keyla Richardson, Jordan McCullough advance to finale

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• 🔥 Quick Facts
• Hannah Harper’s Inspiring Journey from Gospel Singer to Idol Frontrunner
• Keyla Richardson Brings Pensacola Fire to Top 3 Showdown
• Jordan McCullough’s Last-Second Drama and Path to the Finale
• The Class of 2006 Reunion That Changed Everything
• What Happens Next, When the Winner Is Crowned on May 11?
  • Sources

American Idol’s top 3 just stunned the competition. Hannah Harper, Keyla Richardson, and Jordan McCullough advanced to the finale tonight in a 2006 reunion episode that brought back legends Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson. Two singers, Chris Tungseth and Braden Rumfelt, said goodbye to their dreams on Sunday night.

Hannah Harper’s Inspiring Journey from Gospel Singer to Idol Frontrunner

Hannah Harper leads the competition with 67.5 percent of viewer votes heading into the finale. The 25-year-old mom of three grew up in rural Missouri, traveling on a tour bus for seven years singing gospel music with her family band. Her roots in bluegrass gospel and church performances gave her the powerful vocal foundation fans love today.

Harper’s story resonates deeply with audiences who see her juggling motherhood with stardom. She became a viral sensation earlier in the competition, proving that being a devoted parent doesn’t diminish artistic ambition. Her performances have consistently received praise from judges and viewers alike.

Keyla Richardson Brings Pensacola Fire to Top 3 Showdown

Keyla Richardson, from Pensacola, Florida, earned her spot with 15 percent of the vote and brings explosive energy to every stage. During the reunion episode, she delivered a fiery rendition of River Deep Mountain High by Ike and Tina Turner, proving she can handle iconic covers with conviction and soul.

Richardson has become a local hero, with Pensacola rallying behind her throughout the competition. Her powerful voice and passionate delivery have earned respect from Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, original judges returning to celebrate the show’s legacy this season.

Jordan McCullough’s Last-Second Drama and Path to the Finale

Finalist	Vote Share	Eliminated
Hannah Harper	67.5%	No
Keyla Richardson	15.0%	No
Jordan McCullough	10.0%	No
Braden Rumfelt	5.0%	Yes

Jordan McCullough made it through with 10 percent of viewer votes in a nail-biting final verdict. Standing center stage with eliminated competitors Chris Tungseth and Braden Rumfelt, McCullough learned he would advance to perform for the ultimate prize. His duet with Elliott Yamin on A Song for You showcased the vocal depth that impressed America.

“The three artists with the most votes were Hannah Harper, Keyla Richardson, and Jordan McCullough. That means these three singers will be competing to win the title of American Idol Season 24.”

— Ryan Seacrest, American Idol Host

The Class of 2006 Reunion That Changed Everything

Tonight’s episode transported the Top 5 back in time with Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson, original judges from Season 5 twenty years ago. The nostalgia factor intensified emotions as legends like Taylor Hicks, Kellie Pickler, and Bucky Covington performed alongside 2026 hopefuls for the first time in decades.

Jamal Roberts, last year’s Season 23 winner, also graced the stage to mentor the final five. This star-studded reunion brought the legacy and prestige of American Idol’s historic run into sharp focus, making the stakes feel heavier for remaining contestants battling for glory.

What Happens Next, When the Winner Is Crowned on May 11?

The three-hour grand finale airs Monday, May 11 on ABC, with all three finalists performing multiple songs for America. Millions of viewers will cast votes determining who lifts the microphone as the next American Idol champion and recording artist.

Can Hannah Harper convert her commanding vote lead into victory, or will Richardson or McCullough mount a stunning comeback on finale night? The competition has been brutally tight in previous years, with unexpected upsets changing outcomes in hours. Season 24’s conclusion promises drama, stunning performances, and emotional closure for one triumphant finalist.

Sources

• USA Today – American Idol Top 3 revealed with Hannah Harper, Keyla Richardson, and Jordan McCullough advancing on May 4, 2026.
• Deseret News – Meet the three finalists and their performances during the Class of 2006 reunion episode.
• TVLine – American Idol Season 24 finale results with vote percentages and elimination details.