LIVINGSTON – Former American Idol winner and Livingston Parish native Laine Hardy is showing heartfelt support for fellow Bayou State singer John Foster, whose impressive run on the show has landed him in the Top 3.
Hardy, who took home the Idol title in 2019, says he connected with Foster before the 18-year-old from Addis ever stepped foot on the Idol stage. His advice? Be real.
“He wanted advice,” Hardy recalled. “I told him to be honest and true to himself on the inside — and whatever came out his mouth.”
Foster followed that guidance throughout the American Idol competition, winning over fans across the country with his authenticity, humble spirit, and touching performances — including the original song he wrote for his late best friend, Maggie Dunn.
MORE FROM UWK: John Foster returns home with hero’s welcome & visits Brusly High: “I am here because of them”
American Idol | “He’s a Louisiana boy. I got to support him.”
Hardy said seeing another Louisiana artist rise through the American Idol ranks brought back memories of his own whirlwind experience.
“When I was in the Top 3, it was just a variety of emotions, really,” Hardy shared. “The main one for me was a feeling of happiness and joy. The atmosphere of, ‘If I don’t win, that’s okay — this is amazing.’”
He reflected on the bonds contestants form behind the scenes: “By that time, we’d gotten to know everyone working on the show. It was a goodbye, but also a hello — to starting our own careers in music.”
Hardy called Foster’s Idol journey “incredible” and emphasized the importance of staying grounded.
“He’s a Louisiana boy. I got to support him. I’m behind him,” Hardy said. “And what I would say is: winners never quit, and quitters never win.”
“I’ll keep making music. I love it.”
Since winning Idol, Hardy’s life has been a series of new beginnings — personally and professionally.
“I’m a father now. I have a little boy, and I’m getting married in June,” Hardy shared. “The last six years have been growth. I’m thankful for all the ups and downs — they’ve shaped me.”
Musically, Hardy is far from finished. He’s preparing to head back to the studio in Nashville next month to record two new songs.
“It’s a lot going on, but I’m excited,” he said. “I’ll keep making music. I love it — and I’m not stopping.”
As John Foster’s American Idol chapter closes, Hardy is confident this is just the beginning for the young Louisiana singer.
“This show gives you a stage — but what you do next is where the real work begins,” Hardy said. “And John has what it takes to make it last.”
From one Louisiana Idol to another, it’s clear — the music, and the heart behind it, keeps going.
The season finale of American Idol airs Sunday on ABC at 7:00 p.m.
MORE FROM UWK: “You go to LSU? I go there, too!” | Baylee Littrell reflects on American Idol journey
Download the Unfiltered with Kiran app from the Apple App Store and Google Play to stay updated on the latest news across the Capital area.
Support UWK and its mission to deliver The News You Deserve. Unfiltered. Become a monthly patron on Patreon today!
