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And the Winner of ‘American Idol’ Season 21 Is…

Last night, the final contestants sang their hearts out on stage, hoping to be crowned the next American Idol. But, there was only one winner chosen.

During the season 21 finale, the final three singers—Megan Danielle, Iam Tongi, and Colin Stough—fought hard for the title on live television. And that title went to…Iam Tongi!

American Idol host Ryan Secrest, 48, read his name aloud for the entire country to hear in the most dramatic moment of the season. During the finale, the 18-year-old blew away the judges (and the rest of us) with his outstanding performance of the song, “I’ll Be Seeing You,” as a tribute to his late father. In addition, he sang a cover of “Monsters” alongside James Blunt in a stellar duet.  

Iam Tongi Singing CAT
Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty Images

Danielle was chosen as the runner-up and Stough claimed third place. 

After winning the competition, Tongi was left nearly speechless. “Honestly, it feels crazy and it feels unreal and I love just everyone,” he said, according to ABC.

As for what’s next? The Hawaiian native is ready for whatever comes his way. “For sure, I'm going to be doing live shows, concerts and stuff because I love live,” he explained. “I’m going to have fun doing it.”

The night was also filled with star-studded performances, including appearances by Pitbull, TLC, Kevin Cronin and many more. The American Idol judges—Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan—also took center stage.

Congrats on your big win, Iam!

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Assistant Editor, News And Entertainment

  • Covers all things news and entertainment
  • Has over 5+ years of reporting on celebrity news and pop culture
  • Studied Journalism at Brooklyn College