American Idol Season 23 has narrowed its contestants down to its three finalists — Jamal Roberts, Breanna Nix, and John Foster. On Sunday, May 18th, these three amazing talents will sing one last time and America will vote during the two-hour live episode to reveal who will be this season’s winner.

It was extremely tough to see the Top 5 narrowed down to just three. On May 12th, viewers were shocked that fan-favorite, Thunderstorm Artis, did not receive enough votes to move on to the final round. Throughout the competition, Thunderstorm wowed the judges with his stunning vocals. His personal story, which included his wife’s amazing support for him, was also extremely heartfelt to fans.

It doesn’t come as a shock that Thunderstorm’s wife, who watched him sing every week in the audience, had something to say about her husband not making it to the Top 3.

Thunderstorm Artis’ Wife Believed Her Husband “Deserved” To Be In The Top 3 Of American Idol

American Idol’s Thunderstorm Artis was sadly eliminated on the May 12th episode, in which the three finalists were announced. Nineteen million votes were cast during the two-hour episode, and sadly, both Thunderstorm and Slater Nalley did not earn enough votes, which meant that Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix, were America’s three finalists.

After Thunderstorm learned his fate, he took to Instagram to express his gratitude for making it so far in the competition and thanked his fans. He also shared that he “really wanted to make the Top 3,” but promised fans he’d continue making music.

“Well, that was a great run. I had so much fun. I’m filled with so much gratitude that I got to stand on a stage in front of millions of people and sing songs that I’m really passionate about.” He added, ““Yeah, really wanted to make top three, but you know what? It’s totally fine. I feel like we won a lot of things with just making top 5, and not even making top 5. But, I’m excited to put music out. I’m excited for what comes next. I know God has a plan.”

Immediately, fans started commenting on his post with heartfelt messages. Thunderstorm’s wife, Faith Artis, who was regularly seen in the audience with the couple’s children, also posted a commented declaring that he husband “deserved” to be in the top 3.

“Love you SO MUCH honey ❤️ you left it all out on that stage and I couldn’t be more proud 😭 I think you deserved to be in that finale, but top 5 is HUGE. The boys and I are forever grateful for your hard work! We love you so much baby 😘,” she wrote. The comment received over 700 likes by fans.

Thunderstorm Artis Dedicated His Idol Audition To His Wife, Faith

Several Idol hopefuls chose to sing original songs for their auditions, but one that touched fans and the three judges — Lionel Richie, Lue Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, was Thunderstorm’s tune, “Don’t Let Me Let You Go.”

Before singing his original song, Thunderstorm shared the meaning behind it with the judges, “It’s about mine and my wife’s journey and just the hardships of relationships, especially in the times when you feel like you might be pulling away and it’s important for the other person to be that anchor for you,” he said.

Waiting in the lobby was Thunderstorm’s wife, Faith, who shared just how much she supported his musical career. “Music is not the easiest road that people take, but he’s been working at this his whole life. I’m just so proud of him.”

During the May 5th episode in which the Top 8 took on songs selected by the judges, Thunderstorm chose Journey’s “Faithfully” after resonating with the lyrics. When he took the stage, he sang the words directly to his wife, who was holding one of their two children. After his performance, Thunderstorm touchingly shared a few words to Faith for believing in his dreams.

“Faith, you have supported me in so many different ways through these five years of marriage, and through a lot of crazy ups and downs. I just want to thank you for always being there, and always being my rock. The world might have my gift, but you have my heart. I love you,” he told her.

Who Made Season 23’s Top 3?

On Sunday, May 18th, the three finalists will take the Idol stage for the very last time. The three-hour episode will be live with viewers having the chance to vote throughout the night for their favorite performer. The singer who receives the most votes from America will ultimately win Season 23 of American Idol.

All three finalists have proven that they are all worthy of winning the Idol crown. Jamal Roberts, 27, has been consistent throughout the competition with his powerful vocals. Breanna Nix, 25, has a truly remarkable singing voice and has star power. John Foster, 18, has captured hearts across America with his soulful country voice.

Besides the remaining three Idol contestants singing their hearts out for America’s vote, some of the most popular entertainers in the music industry will also take the stage. These artists include the Goo Goo Dolls, Good Charlotte, Jessica Simpson, Kirk Franklin, Salt-N-Pepa, Josh Groban, Patti LaBelle, and Jelly Roll, who were this season’s artist-in-residence. Additionally, Season 23’s Top 14 will also return to the stage, which means fans will get to see Thunderstorm perform for one more time.

The Idol judges will also perform on the finale. It will be a star-studded night with the winner of Season 23 being crowned at the end of the show.

For more American Idol coverage, visit our Reality TV Hub.