18-year-old Hawaiian artist Iam Tongi was today crowned the winner of American Idol.
Tongi beat out finalist Megan Danielle from Georgia for the coveted spot, becoming the first contestant with Hawaii ties crowned winner of the show after 21 seasons.
Finalist Colin Stough from Mississippi was eliminated midway through today’s show.
Iam Tongi is originally from Kahuka, Hawaii, which is located on the island of Oahu.
He moved to Seattle 3 years ago after getting priced out of paradise and was able to return to Hawaii for the top 26 performances and a hometown visit ahead of the finale.
The youngster is currently a senior in high school. He attends Decatur High School, which is located in Federal Way, Washington.
The season finale also included star-studded performances from judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, along with former American Idol stars Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard.
Ellie Goulding, James Blunt, Jazmine Sullivan, Jelly Roll, Kevin Cronin from REO Speedwagon, Kylie Minogue, Lainey Wilson, Lauren Daigle, Pitbull and TLC also took the stage to perform during the finale, along with former Idol judge Keith Urban, who also mentored the three finalists.
