American Idol 2023: Who won American Idol season 21? (And who made the Top 2)

The American Idol journey takes hard work, perseverance, and strength to get through. But whether the final contestants are crowned the ultimate winner or not, the last three are all winners in my book. Tonight, we finally found out took home the American Idol season 21 winning title!

Last week, we had to say goodbye to Wé Ani and Zachariah Smith who were a part of the Top 5 on the ABC series. With them heading home, that left the Top 3 in this evening’s season finale – Colin Stough, Iam Tongi, and Megan Danielle.

During the three-hour live event, we had some star-studded performances by Ellie Goulding, Pitbull, Kevin Cronin from REO Speedwagon, and many more. Mentor Keith Urban also took the stage, and made a return to the show. The artist previously served as a judge for seasons 12 to 15 (2012 to 2016). Current judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie also showed off their vocals, with the Top 12 making a return as well.

But of course, all eyes were on the remaining trio who performed on the Idol stage one more time for our live votes at home during the season finale. So who is this year’s winner? We’ve got the answer for you below!

American Idol 2023: Who won American Idol season 21 on ABC?

And the 2023 American Idol winner is… Iam Tongi! Since Iam began his Idol journey, we knew he was a star. The season had so many talents, and the Hawaii native definitely deserves the win. Congratulations Iam!

At the halfway point of the episode, Colin Stough was eliminated as the third-place finisher of the season. This left Iam Tongi and Megan Danielle to battle it out for the title of American Idol.

With Iam winning, that means the runner-ups are Colin Stough and Megan Danielle. Honestly, it could have gone to anyone this year. The competition was so difficult and there were so many who deserved to move forward, and even win. It’s a shame only one person can be crowned the champ. But, we’re so happy Iam is the winner!

Top 2 on American Idol 2023

With the trio of Colin Stough, Iam Tongi, and Megan Danielle making it into the Top 3, America really had no bad options as all three have shined across the season. That’s what made things so interesting as each had been favorites among the audience all season long. So when the time came for the Top 2 to be named, there was no telling who America would vote through.

First, it was revealed that Iam Tongi had secured the first spot in the Top 2, and then that Megan Danielle would be joining him as the second member of the Top 2. This meant, Colin Stough was sent home and finished in third place.

Who are the American Idol 2023 runner-ups?

The first elimination of the American Idol season 21 finale came about halfway through the episode with the elimination of Colin Stough. During the first results of the night, Ryan revealed that Iam Tongi and Megan Danielle had secured enough votes to become the Top 2 for the season.

At the end of the episode, Iam was announced as the winner which means Megan ended the season as runner-up.

• Second place: Megan Danielle
• Third place: Colin Stough

Is American Idol renewed on ABC? (Is season 22 happening in 2024?)

Next year, we get to see another young talent take home the title. American Idol has been renewed by ABC! The singing competition series will be back sometime between January and March during the broadcast television midseason schedule. The return of the judges as well as host Ryan Seacrest hasn’t been confirmed for the 2024 season yet. But, there’s no need to worry! The group usually negotiates their contracts in the summer.

American Idol returns for season 22 in 2024! Stay tuned to Hidden Remote as we bring you updates about the new season.