American Idol’ Crowns its 2023 Winner : William Tongi is crowned the winner of season 21

On Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 8 pm ET on ABC, a new episode of American Idol, the popular reality competition series, premiered. It captured the final performances and challenges between the three finalists. They gave it their all to win the title and the $250,000 prize money.

At the end of that week’s edition of American Idol, William Tongi was declared the winner. He triumphed over Megan Danielle, his rival. He won the competition, therefore he not only took home the crown but also the cash award and will soon be signing multiple record deals.

The show’s viewers were thrilled by the overwhelming support for William and shared their joy on social media.

Those who have been riding shotgun for this year’s 21st edition know who the winner is; they’ve known for months. The big finish only served to solidify what many people already understood.

ABC aired a special featuring the top three contestants (Iam Tongi, Megan Danielle, and Colin Stough) giving their final performances to fans.

William Tongi is crowned the winner of season 21

Season 21’s champion is William Tongi. The judges and his rivals praised him, and they all gathered on stage to rejoice with him. Megan Danielle won the award for second place.

After the victory, fans took to social media to express their elation.

The top three performed two songs apiece, including one by special guest coach Keith Urban and one honouring their respective home cities. Then, the two remaining contenders were announced by host Ryan Seacrest, and their original songs were pitted against one another. After Tongi performed Urban’s “Making Memories of Us,” the crowd began shouting his name. Next, Danielle sang a Journey classic at the top of her lungs, and Stough sang a Chris Stapleton song with his good ol’ country boy charm.

The judges gave the 21-year-old waitress a standing ovation, with Richie praising her for the distinctive “cry” in her singing voice. “It’s everything,” he exclaimed in awe. I think we have three of the best in the world performing here tonight.

A final comment from Perry read: “Our job here is done, because that’s the gift.”

Bryan claimed that he had not heard Danielle “make one bad vocal decision” throughout the entire competition. “You’ve done it stylistically in your way,” he said. “It’s been so encouraging to see you flourish.”

Tongi sang a cool, chill, and funky cover of Keith Urban’s “Making Memories of Us” while the crowd yelled his name. The vibration from your mouth, Perry added, “goes through the weeds of people’s hearts every time you come on and sing.”