There were performances from the season’s past contestants, the talented judges, and famous alumni like Carrie Underwood, Adam Lambert, and last season’s winner Maddie Poppe.
Beyond the winner’s announcement, the Season 17 finale appeared to be a celebration of everything American Idol.
There was some question whether the latter would be involved, after voicing her displeasure she was not invited to perform despite her album’s release days before the finale.