Brandon Lake & Kirk Franklin Set To Appear In ‘American Idol’ Finale Episode Airing May 18

Brandon Lake and Kirk Franklin are set to appear as musical guests on the American Idol Season 23 finale, airing this Sunday, May 18, 2025. They'll be joining a star-studded lineup that includes the Goo Goo Dolls, Good Charlotte, Jessica Simpson, Jelly Roll, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, Jennifer Holliday, and Josh Groban. Additionally, judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie are expected to perform during the finale. 

Brandon Lake has previously made a significant impact on the show. He delivered a powerful duet of "Hard Fought Hallelujah" with Jelly Roll during the Easter special, which resonated deeply with audiences. He also made a surprise virtual appearance to encourage contestants Breanna Nix and Rylie O'Neill after their heartfelt rendition of his song "Gratitude." 

The finale will feature the Top 3 contestants-John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix-competing for the title. The Top 14 contestants will also return for a group performance, making it a night filled with music and celebration. 

The finale airs live on ABC on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET (Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. AEST). You can watch it live on ABC through various live TV streaming services such as DIRECTV Stream, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV. 

 

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