Iam Tongi’s journey to the American Idol title (photo gallery)

American Idol

Iam Tongi’s journey to the American Idol title (photo gallery)

May 21, 2023 By Mark Franklin 0

Iam Tongi was named the American Idol champion Sunday night, beating out fellow finalists Colin Stough and Megan Danielle for that honor.

Iam had been the favorite on the show since auditioning with his revered rendition of “Monsters” — 16 million views on YouTube.

Here’s a look back in photos at Iam’s journey to the American Idol crown.

Iam Tongi performs Monsters during his Season 23 audition on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi grabs a golden ticket after his successful audition on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi performs I Can’t Make You Love Me during Hollywood Week on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Oliver Steele and Iam Tongi share an emotional moment after their Hollywood Week duet on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi performs Sound of Silence during the Showstopper round on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Matt Wilson, Iam Tongi and Colin Stough wait to hear their fate on the judges on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi performs Don’t Let Go during Top 26 week at Disney’s Aulani Resort on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi performs The Winner Takes It All during the Top 20 performance show on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi prepares to welcome Lionel Richie to the stage after performing Stuck on You during Top 12 reveal night on American Idol (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi backstage with Nutsa during Top 12 reveal night on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi reacts to the crowd reaction after performing Bring It On Home to Me alongside Ryan Seacrest on Top 12 night on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi with Ryan Seacrest after performing What a Wonderful World on Top 10 night on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Oliver Steele congratulates Iam Tongi on advancing to the Top 8 on American Idol while Zachariah Smith applauds on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Oliver Steele and Iam Tongi share a moment after their Top 8 duet on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi performs Guardian on Top 8 night for American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi with Top 5 mentor Sofia Carson during Disney Night on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi sings for his mother during Disney Week on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Iam Tongi performs Lava on Disney Night on American Idol. (ABC Photo)