Fans relish in Noah Thompson’s ‘inspiring’ win on ‘American Idol.’ Read their reactions

Mike Stunson
·3 min read
Eric McCandless/ABC

From the holler of Eastern Kentucky to becoming a champion on “American Idol,” Noah Thompson’s journey on the singing competition has been referred to by fans as “inspiring.”

The 19-year-old country singer from Louisa became the first Kentuckian to win “American Idol” on Sunday, May 22. When his best friend forced him to audition, Thompson told judges he has never had confidence in himself, but he exhibited the newfound belief in himself as he continued to advance on “Idol.”

It culminated Sunday when he defeated HunterGirl and Leah Marlene in the season finale.

Hours after being named the “American Idol,” Thompson said on “Good Morning America” he was still shocked.

“Truthfully I came into this competition not thinking I would even get a Golden Ticket so to hear my name at the end, it was amazing,” he said.

Addiction Recovery Care, where Thompson was employed as a construction worker, said after Sunday’s episode how proud it was of him.

“Way to represent Kentucky and Addiction Recovery Care so well throughout the entire season,” his employer said. “From Louisa to Hollywood, you will forever be our @AmericanIdol.”

More reactions poured in to social media, and many are awaiting what Thompson will do next.

“One of the most inspiring stories ever,” one Twitter user said. “Noah Thompson literally told his friend not to send in a clip of him singing to @AmericanIdol because he didn’t think he had it in him. Months later he goes and wins the whole thing. #KentuckyProud.”

He also received more applause from a couple of the show’s judges, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

Bryan said Thompson has “truly blossomed” and told him to “never lose that authentic spirit.”

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