On the season finale of American Idol, gospel legend Kirk Franklin joined former contestant Canaan James Hill for a powerful performance of “Melodies” and “Love Theory.”
Hill, a content creator and aspiring preacher, told the judges during his audition that he graduated high school early to pursue what he believes is a calling from God.
“I’m so ready to spread the Gospel,” he said after receiving one of the coveted platinum tickets.
Throughout the season, Hill delivered energetic renditions of gospel hits like “I Need Your Glory” and “Never Would Have Made It” before being eliminated in week 10. But he wasn’t the only contestant bringing praise and worship to the Idol stage this year.
This season featured several faith-driven performances, including a special Easter Sunday episode titled “Songs of Faith.” Contestants performed worship songs, while guest artists CeCe Winans and Brandon Lake took the stage to share their own hits. Even the judges—Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan—joined in, making it one of the most spiritually charged seasons in Idol history.
