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


Published: May 13, 2025 05:09 PM EDT

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." 

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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.