‘American Idol’ 2026 Top 7 revealed after Disney Night performances and eliminations

The road to the Top 7 on American Idol Season 24 has not been easy, and each remaining contestant brings a story that feels just as interesting as their performances. Daniel Stallworth is a 27-year-old from Moss Point. Before stepping onto the ‘Idol’ stage, he had already built a following online by sharing clips of his singing. He studied at Alcorn State University, where he led the school’s gospel choir. These days, he works as an elementary music teacher near Houston.

Keyla Richardson, a 29-year-old gospel artist from Pensacola, Florida, has earned her place in the Top 7 of American Idol Season 24. Her connection to music goes way back, as she began singing at just five years old and later decided to take it seriously as a teenager. While she continues to chase her dream of becoming a recording artist, Keyla also works as a music teacher at Life Shifting Learning Academy. As a single mother, she draws strength from her young son Drew, who has been her biggest supporter throughout the competition. He has shown up for every performance.

Jordan McCullough, a 27-year-old from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, has been surrounded by music for as long as he can remember. He started singing in church at just four years old. Today, he works as a worship leader, a role that requires both vocal ability and the skill to move a crowd. His audition this season stood out immediately, earning him a Platinum Ticket and a standing ovation. Since then, he has continued to build on that first impression. He has now secured a spot among the Top 7 contestants.

Chris Tungseth has taken an unexpected turn in life, trading construction work for the spotlight on American Idol. A Minnesota native now based in Fergus Falls, Chris was born in Mankato before moving with his family in 2007 due to his father’s ministry work. In 2025, Chris completed his studies at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, earning a degree in exercise science. Just as he was preparing to step into that career, a friend nudged him toward something entirely different by signing him up for ‘Idol’ auditions. That decision changed everything, and he has now claimed a place in the Top 7.

Hannah Harper’s connection to music began early, with her first steps into singing happening around the age of nine. Raised in Missouri, she spent years performing alongside her family band, The Harper Family. By the time she auditioned for American Idol Season 24, she introduced herself as a stay-at-home mom of three who turned to music during a difficult period after childbirth. Hannah has been married to Devon Mendenhall since 2018, and together they are raising their three young sons. Now 25, she has earned a place in the Top 7.

Brooks Rosser has made his way into the Top 7 on American Idol Season 24. At 22, he once had his sights set on soccer, hoping to build a future in the sport, until a serious back injury forced him to step away from that dream. During the Covid-19 lockdown, he began experimenting with singing, first as a way to pass the time and later as something he genuinely wanted to pursue. Over time, music became more than just a distraction; it turned into a new direction for him. Outside the show, Brooks works at a dementia care facility. His personal life also grabbed attention recently when Rae Boyd, a former Idol contestant, confirmed they are dating during the April 20 episode.

Braden Rumfelt rounds out the Top 7. The 22-year-old once had his sights set on baseball, but an injury forced him to change course and lean into music. Growing up in Murphy, North Carolina, he was already familiar with performing, often singing bluegrass gospel at church. In high school, he was diagnosed with a congenital leg condition that required two corrective surgeries after persistent knee pain. The recovery period brought its own challenges, including struggles with his mental health. During that time, he learned to play instruments like piano, bass, and mandolin, while also writing his own songs. Through it all, his twin brother Kellen remained a steady support, even joining him on guitar during his audition.