American Idol season 20 came down to Noah Thompson and HunterGirl, with Noah being crowned the new champion. HunterGirl had been a frontrunner from the very beginning after receiving the coveted Platinum Ticket. HunterGirl spoke to reporters, including HollywoodLife, about her reaction to the results.
“I’m feeling really good,” HunterGirl said. “This has been a year’s worth of work and learning songs and figuring out music. This has just been the best year of my life. Getting to be on that stage, I never thought I’d make it past Nashville, much less getting to be in the finale, so getting to be here and have this moment… This is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”
When it comes to her future, HunterGirl is as determined as ever. “I think I’m just too crazy to give up on anything,” she admitted. “After this, I’m just going to hit it really hard and go after everything I’ve wanted. This has been the best year of my life. This has changed my life. I’m so grateful, and I’m truly proud of myself right now. It’s been hard, guys. I ain’t going to lie to you.”
The Tennessee native revealed that she “definitely” wants to go on tour after American Idol. “I want to start playing shows, new music. I’m so excited,” HunterGirl told reporters.
During the season 20 finale, HunterGirl performed her new single “Red Bird” for America. She also teamed up for a duet with Idol judge Luke Bryan and performed “I Told You So” by Randy Travis.
Before the grand finale, HunterGirl got the chance to go back to her hometown of Winchester, Tennessee, for a celebration. She revealed that she’s ready to go home and tell her family and fans “thank you” for all of their support “because they’ve changed my life. I wouldn’t be here without these people.”
The search for the next American Idol will continue next year. American Idol will return for season 21 in 2023.