This week on American Idol, The Top 3 were revealed ahead of next week’s season 20 Grand Finale set for Sunday May 22. (Read our Recap). At the end of the broadcast, Ryan Seacrest touched on which celebrity guests to expect on the big night. Additionally, a press release announced the finale themes: The Top 3–Noah Thompson, HunterGirl and Leah Marlene will perform songs by Bruce Springsteen, in addition to the original songs they recorded last week.
American Idol: Leah Marlene Wrote “Flowers” After Depression Bout
American Idol: HunterGirl’s Emotional “Redbird” Hits No. 9 on iTunes
American Idol: Noah Thompson ‘One Day Tonight’ Hits No. 4 on iTunes
Each of the Top 3 will hit the Idol stage in hopes of securing America’s vote, including one round dedicated to “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen. In the end, one winner will be crowned the next American Idol.
In addition to the finalists, there will be showstopping performances by judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, as well as season 4 winner and Idol legend Carrie Underwood
Celebrity guest stars to appear on the finale!
Also, look for performances from singer-songwriter, X Factor UK alum James Arthur, Sara Bareilles, country star and season 16 alum Gabby Barrett, Michael Bublé, country legend Deana Carter, 70’s funk icons Earth, Wind & Fire, Melissa Etheridge, Flo Rida, Ben Platt, Thomas Rhett, Tai Verdes and more.
Gabby Barrett returns after mentoring the Top 14, and Carrie Underwood will appear on Idol two weeks in a row. This week as mentor, and next week to perform a song from her upcoming album, Denim & Rhinestones. The singer also announced a major tour coming up.
Michael Buble asked Top 7 contestant Christian Guardino to duet with him on the finale. Which celebrity performers do you think will pair up with contestants? I have a few theories (James Arthur with Fitz Hager, Deana Carter with HunterGirl. JUST Guesses!)
Also, it’s worth noting that over the years, Springsteen didn’t willy-nilly approve his songs for just any singing show contestant. However, last year the rocker sold the rights to his entire song catalog to Sony Music Entertainment for $550 million, and does not control the rights to his music any longer. So, hello Bruce Springsteen week!
Ryan Seacrest hosts American Idol, LIVE, coast to coast, SUNDAY, MAY 22 (8:00-11:00 p.m. EDT/6:00-9:00 p.m. MDT/5:00-8:00 p.m. PDT), on ABC. (TV-PG, L) Watch episodes on demand and on Hulu the day following their premieres.
