“American Idol” Season 22 Crowns Abi Carter: What’s Next for Her and Runner-Up Will Moseley?

Key Takeaways:
– Abi Carter wins “American Idol” Season 22, with Will Moseley as the runner-up.
– Both are set to make national media appearances and begin planning their musical careers.
– Abi Carter bagged a substantial cash reward and a contract with 19 Entertainment.
– Show’s runner-ups might also get signed by 19 Entertainment given its previous trends.

The Climax of Season 22

“American Idol” came to a sensational conclusion on May 19, 2024, with 21-year-old Abi Carter from Indio, California, lifting the crown. The three-hour-long grand finale saw Carter beat out 23-year-old Will Moseley of Hazlehurst, Georgia, after 25-year-old Jack Blocker from Dallas faced early elimination.

Next Big Steps: Media Appearances and Career Planning

Following the exciting finale, both Carter and Moseley will embark on a flurry of media engagements and career preparations, starting with a string of appearances on ABC’s “Good Morning America” on May 21. On the same day, according to TV Lineups, Carter is slated to perform live on “Live With Kelly & Mark.” Moseley’s performance is scheduled for May 24, likely pre-taped earlier in the week.

Reward for the Champions

As the reigning “American Idol” champion, Carter is set to receive a handsome cash enticing and is secured a record deal with 19 Entertainment, the show’s record label collaborator. ABC has been discreet about the exact figures involved, but according to Newsweek, past winners have received $125,000 upon contract signing, with another $125,000 following their first album completion.

The Future of Runner-ups

Moseley may also have a chance of landing a deal with 19 Entertainment. The label has a reputation for signing other contestants from the show. For instance, Colin Stough, the third-place finisher, and top 8 finalist Haven Madison, signed with the label and have had successful releases.

Emotional Reflections

Overwhelmed by her victory, Carter took to social media to express her gratitude. The first female winner in four years, she wrote, “I’m just a girl from Indio, who used to sing on street corners, and now I’ve had the pleasure and privilege to work with some of the most talented people in the industry and be heard by millions.”

Moseley echoed her gratitude, posting photos from the finale and writing, “Feeling incredibly blessed to have been apart of this amazing journey. Finishing this journey on a high note and this is just the beginning! Get ready America, because this is just the launch pad of my music career.”

On a lighter note, the two will also enjoy an ABC-sponsored Disney cruise for themselves and several family members.

As the curtain draws on season 22, the focus shifts to the significant steps Carter and Moseley are poised to take in shaping their blossoming music careers. It remains to be seen if they can match or even surpass the success of previous “American Idol” alumni in the cutthroat music industry.