Congratulations, Hannah Harper! At the end of an exciting grand finale of American Idol last night, Hannah was crowned the winner. Hannah’s incredible voice won the hearts of America and the voters this season. She becomes the first female country singer to win American Idol in 20 years. The last woman to do so was country music star and current American Idol judge, Carrie Underwood!
Harper, 25, began her American Idol journey in Nashville, auditioning with her original song “String Cheese.” Hannah and her talents immediately went viral. The sweet song detailing the joys and struggles of motherhood resonated with moms everywhere, sending the song all over social media. During the American Idol finale on Monday, May 11, she performed “String Cheese” and another original song titled “Married Into This Town.”
The Missouri native also performed “I Hope You Dance” with Lee Ann Womack, one of her biggest musical inspirations.
Before being surprised with the news that Lee Ann would sing with her, Hannah had nothing but praise for the country star. “Lee Ann Womack is at the top. I love her songs, I love singing them. It’s my style of music. That’s the music I want to create now in 2026.”
Lee Ann Womack returned the kind words, celebrating Hannah’s win. “From the first time I saw Hannah’s videos, I was a fan,” says Womack. “Her voice has that rare quality that just stopped me right in my tracks the first time I heard her sing one of my songs. Beyond her incredible talent, I’ve really been moved by her heart. It’s been so exciting to watch America fall in love with her, and I was honored to be able to join her for the American Idol finale. This is just the beginning for Hannah Harper!”
Hannah closed out her victory with an emotional performance of Chris Tomlin’s “At The Cross (Love Ran Red).” No other song could be a more perfect celebration for Hannah! Her Christian faith plays a major role in her life.
After the finale, Harper posted on social media, saying, “What a wild, beautiful journey this has been. And somehow we’re just getting started. 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. “For I know the plans I have for you” — this is the Lord’s declaration — “plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
— Jeremiah 29:11 (CSB).”
Congratulations, Hannah! We can’t wait to see where this next step in your career takes you.