Not just the winner was the topic of conversation during the American Idol finale. A viral video is stoking the belief among fans that runner-up John Foster knew he lost before his name was even called. The Louisiana country music artist is now speaking out for the first time to clarify what actually transpired during that tense moment.

On the finnal stage, John is seen standing composedly beside Jamal Roberts as host Ryan Seacrest gets ready to reveal the winner. John “saw the name on the card” and “peeped” the result early, according to a flurry of comments on the internet. Since the conclusion of the show, social media has been dominated by the fan theory that developed from the rumors.

John Foster Speaks Out as ‘American Idol’ Fans Speculate He Knew Who’d Win

John has now directly addressed the rumors, telling reporters he was in a “total blur” and was not looking at any card. He said he was truly at peace with being runner-up and called Jamal an “incredible performer.” His humble response has only made his fans love and respect him even more.

That gracious attitude is exactly what won over millions of viewers. To see the pure talent that got him to the finale, you have to watch his show-stopping performance of a country classic that had judges and fans saying he was the real deal from the very start.

John Foster Is Pure Country On “I Told You So” – American Idol

This performance proved John was born to sing country. His smooth, vintage voice on the Randy Travis hit had fans saying country producers should be “lining up to sign him.” Comments flooded in praising him for bringing back “true country” and calling him the “whole package” with the talent and personality to be a huge star.

To follow John’s journey after Idol, follow his official pages. He is most active on social media, where he shares his music and thanks his fans for their support. It is the best way to watch his career take off and see what this genuine talent does next.