John Foster, the talented runner-up of American Idol Season 23, is stepping off the TV stage and into one of country music’s most legendary venues — the Grand Ole Opry.
On June 7, Foster will make his official Opry debut, performing alongside Grand Ole Opry member Craig Morgan and other seasoned artists, including Mark Wills from the award-winning group Old Crow Medicine Show.
For Foster, this moment is the realization of a lifelong dream. “The first time I went to the Opry, I fought back tears because I was so overwhelmed with joy,” he shared. “As an amateur country music historian, there is no place more important to my passion for country music than the Grand Ole Opry. This has been my number one dream ever since I started music, and now, because of your support, my dream will come true! I will never be able to express my gratitude. Glory be to God!”
It has been only a few days since John placed second on American Idol, but he’s already making waves beyond the show. He announced an upcoming public appearance at the Cajun Country Jam at Pards North Park in Denham Springs, Louisiana, scheduled for Memorial Day Weekend. Fans are eager to see him live as he brings his traditional country style to the stage.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Foster reflected on his journey: “I can vividly remember feeling like I’d never be good enough during my early days on Idol. But I proved myself wrong. My gratitude will never be fully expressed, but I hope to show it by working hard to bring you new country music and more show dates soon. God has a reason for me being runner-up. This is just the first step into what He has in store for me, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead. I love you all!”
Meanwhile, fellow American Idol alum Breanna Nix, who placed third, is also preparing for a big Opry moment. She announced she will perform there on June 5, 2025, calling it a “surreal” bucket list achievement.
With both Foster and Nix stepping into the Grand Ole Opry spotlight so soon after American Idol, the future looks bright for the new generation of country stars keeping the tradition alive.
