Kirk Franklin and Brandon Lake Deliver Stunning Performances at the American Idol Season 23 Grand Finale

Kirk Franklin and Brandon Lake delivered standout performances during the American Idol Season 23 Grand Finale, which aired on Sunday, May 18, 2025 (Monday, May 19, 10 a.m. AEST). The Season 23 finale featured a diverse lineup of guest performers, including Brandon Lake, Jessica Simpson, Josh Groban, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, and the Goo Goo Dolls. The Top 3 contestants-Jamal Roberts, Breanna Nix, and John Foster-competed for the title, with Roberts ultimately being crowned the winner . 

Franklin took the stage alongside finalist Canaan James Hill to perform two of his iconic gospel hits: "Melodies from Heaven" and "Love Theory" . Their collaboration brought a powerful spiritual energy to the finale and was a highlight of the evening. This isn't the first time Franklin has graced the Idol stage. Back in 2011, he performed his hit "I Smile" with Jacob Lusk and Gladys Knight during the Season 10 finale.

Lake took the stage alongside finalist Breanna Nix to perform "Daddy's DNA," a heartfelt collaboration that showcased their vocal chemistry and emotional depth. Earlier in the season, Lake also performed his hit song "Hard Fought Hallelujah" with Jelly Roll during the show's Easter Sunday "Songs of Faith" special. Their duet was widely praised for its raw emotion and spiritual resonance, blending contemporary Christian and country-rap influences to deliver a soul-stirring performance. 

If you missed these performances, you can watch the full episodes on Hulu or view clips on the official American Idol YouTube channel. 

 

 

 

Tags : American Idol Season 23 Grand Finale American Idol brandon lake Kirk Franklin