We’re Heartbroken”: ‘American Idol’ Finalists John Foster & Breanna Nix Break Silence on Shocking Absence That’s Tearing Them Apart

Just two weeks ago, “American Idol” fans crowned Jamal Roberts as the season 23 champion. The Mississippi-based elementary school P.E. teacher edged out popular finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix for the top spot.

Recently, Foster and Nix reunited for the first time since the show wrapped, appearing at CMA Fest’s “19/BMG American Idol Takeover” in Nashville. In a video shared to social media, the duo revealed they were already missing a key figure from their Idol journey—host Ryan Seacrest.

“I really miss Ryan,” Nix confessed as she and Foster visited Seacrest Studios. “He’s just such a great guy,” Foster agreed. Nix added, “I just miss Ryan, like, a lot. It’s really sad,” before spotting a cardboard cutout of Seacrest. Rushing over to it, Foster joked, “He must be cold or something.”

“Nothin’ Like a Ryan Reunion”: Fans React to Seacrest Shoutout

Nix posted the lighthearted reunion to social media on Tuesday (June 3), and it quickly got a reaction from the man himself. “I froze from being starstruck,” Seacrest, 50, responded. “Thanks for coming by Seacrest Studios!” The official American Idol account also chimed in: “Nothin’ like a Ryan Reunion!”

Fans were equally emotional. One Instagram user commented, “You guys are so funny!!! We definitely miss the show—and we love how Ryan always supports and connects with the contestants. The show just wouldn’t be the same without him.”

John Foster’s Star Keeps Rising

Though he finished second to Roberts, 18-year-old John Foster is already seeing his dreams come true. Compared by many to Dwight Yoakam, Foster quickly became a fan favorite—especially winning over judge Carrie Underwood.

Now, the country singer-songwriter is preparing for a major milestone: his debut at the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday (June 7).

“As an amateur country music historian, there’s no place more important to me than the Opry,” he wrote on Instagram. “This has been my number one dream since I started music—and because of your support, it’s finally coming true.”