You could call it “Alabama Night” on American Idol. During Monday’s two-hour episode, five contestants from the Yellowhammer State auditioned—and every single one walked away with a golden ticket to Hollywood Week.
That kind of sweep is rare, especially in the show’s 24th season. While Alabama has a strong Idol legacy, including two winners and two runners-up, seeing five singers from the state featured in one episode—and all advance—is an impressive milestone.
Lionel Richie, a Tuskegee native, proudly celebrated the moment. “Alabama is in the house. My home state is showing up,” he said as “Sweet Home Alabama” played in the background.
Here’s a look at the standout contestants:
Kiera Howell
The 16-year-old high school student from Geneva impressed the judges with her vibrant personality and performance of “Don’t Tread on Me” by We The Kingdom. Carrie Underwood praised the grit and versatility in her voice, noting she could even hear her singing country or something with a Stevie Nicks vibe. Howell was advised to choose songs that match her bubbly energy—and she happily accepted her golden ticket, calling the moment “so unreal.”
Trew the Star (Trevon Williams)
The 24-year-old Montgomery native delivered a heartfelt rendition of Sam Cooke’s “Nothing Can Change This Love.” Sharing his emotional backstory—including the loss of his mother in 2022—Trew moved the judges deeply. Richie gave him a hug, saying Alabama was proud. Underwood applauded his intentional storytelling, while Luke Bryan admitted he had “full-body chills.” Trew summed it up simply: “This is hope.”
Brett Carlisle
The 28-year-old Birmingham rocker and frontman for Great White brought classic rock energy to the stage with “House of Broken Love.” Though his audition aired in a montage, Richie dubbed him a potential “poster child” for rock this season. Carlisle celebrated his golden ticket, promising to bring rock ‘n’ roll to Idol.
Kayla Finch
A 25-year-old substitute teacher from York, Finch performed a ballad version of “One Night Only” from Dreamgirls. She earned three yeses, along with playful advice from Underwood to push herself vocally. Finch enthusiastically declared she’d remember that tip all the way to Hollywood Week.
Kutter Bradley
The 22-year-old fire protection inspector from Florence showcased his Southern rock style with “Here Without You” by 3 Doors Down, accompanying himself on guitar. Richie praised his confidence and signature growl, and Bradley secured his golden ticket.
The Alabama presence didn’t stop there. Additional hopefuls from Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, Birmingham, and Troy were also featured in a montage, with at least one more contestant, Marissa Luna of Birmingham, confirming her golden ticket on social media. Earlier this season, Mobile’s Bryant Thomas also advanced.
With Hollywood Week kicking off February 23 in Nashville, Alabama’s strong showing proves the state remains a powerhouse on the Idol stage.