John Foster is one of the most talked-about contestants on this season of American Idol. The 18-year-old country singer from Addis, Louisiana, has made it into the top 5, and fans are rallying hard to push him into the final three. But Foster’s climb to this point isn’t just about the performances — it’s about how he’s managed fame, faith, and a future he still wants control over.

John Foster is keeping his signature cowboy hat — and staying grounded

Foster rarely steps on stage without his cowboy hat, and fans won’t be surprised if it stays put through the finale. He’s worn it for nearly every performance since his first gig. It’s become part of his brand — but also part of how he stays himself in a space that’s constantly trying to mold contestants.

“There’s no way I can go on that stage without it,” Foster said in a recent interview from Hollywood. He also made it clear that while his social media presence is growing fast, he’s focused on staying centered. His faith, he says, is what keeps him from getting lost in the hype.

Behind the fame: a day in John Foster’s life on American Idol

With multiple performances each week, vocal coaching, and wardrobe changes, Foster’s schedule is packed. He usually starts around 8 a.m. at Red Studios in Los Angeles and doesn’t wrap up until 5 or 6 p.m. Each show requires four different outfits and rehearsals for every song. That’s a lot of work behind the glitter of prime-time TV.

Foster saves his evenings for social media. It’s when he connects with fans, replies to comments, and sorts through requests — including a lot of autograph asks. But even there, he’s thoughtful. Instead of just sending signed photos, he turned it into a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, raising over $5,300 so far.

Not signed to a label — and setting the record straight on Billboard myths

Rumors have swirled online that Foster has already signed with multiple record labels or that his song “Tell That Angel I Love Her” hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts. He says neither is true. While he did sign a tentative contract with 19 Entertainment (a standard move for finalists), he’s not officially attached to any label.

And though the song made waves on iTunes country charts, it never reached the top spot. “As much as I wish that was true, I did not hit No. 1,” he admitted. Still, the momentum behind his music is real — and so is the support. Even country legend Randy Travis followed him on Instagram and sent a personal message of encouragement.

Mentored by Lin-Manuel Miranda and inspired by Josh Groban

Foster’s recent Disney-themed week was a highlight — not just for the songs, but for the mentors. Working with Lin-Manuel Miranda at Disneyland, Foster performed “Almost There” from The Princess and the Frog with a Louisiana twist. Miranda’s presence in the studio added energy, and Foster even got a moment to speak with him off-camera.

He also learned from Groban, who gave him advice on handling stage anxiety. It’s something Foster has struggled with, and hearing that even established stars deal with it helped him — a lot. “To know that they struggle with that too … that was really comforting,” he said.

Love on the show: fans are meeting John Foster’s girlfriend Brooklyn

In recent episodes, viewers have gotten a glimpse of Brooklyn Bourque, Foster’s girlfriend. She’s been a fan of Idol her whole life, and now she’s watching her boyfriend compete live. Foster says she’s handling the attention well, and her family is excited — just like his.

For Foster, having Brooklyn in the audience makes a difference. It’s another way he stays grounded, especially when the crowd chants and the lights flare a little too bright.

How to vote for John Foster and help him reach the finale

If you want to see Foster in the top 3, voting is the way to make it happen. Fans can cast up to 10 votes per platform, for a total of 30 votes per person. Here’s how:

  • Vote on ABC’s American Idol website
  • Use the American Idol app on iOS or Android
  • Text Foster’s contestant number “13” to 21523

Voting windows are tight, usually closing during the last commercial break. You don’t have to wait for Foster to perform to cast your vote — and you can change your mind as the show goes on, as long as you save your choice before the deadline.

John Foster’s hope: a career like George Strait’s — and a future in medicine

Foster idolizes George Strait. He models his singing and stage presence after the country legend. But he isn’t chasing fame just for fame’s sake. He’s still a second-semester LSU student with a goal to become an oncologist. Music may be his path now, but medicine is still on his horizon.

“I have a purpose here, and that’s why I’m here,” Foster said. Whether that purpose leads him to a record deal or a lab coat, he’s not rushing. For now, he’s enjoying the ride — cowboy hat firmly in place.