New ‘American Idol' Winner Joins Carrie Underwood for Major Country Music Debut
The newest American Idol winner is already heading for one of country music's biggest stages.
Fresh off her victory on ABC's hit singing competition, Hannah Harper will make her official debut at the Grand Ole Opry on June 2 as part of the venue's massive "Summer of the Century" celebration during CMA Fest week.
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Harper is scheduled to appear alongside Carrie Underwood, who famously launched her own superstar career after winning American Idol in 2005 and is now a judge on the long-running singing competition show. The June 2 lineup will also include Opry NextStage alum Avery Anna during two performances scheduled for 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
The announcement arrives just days after Harper was crowned the newest winner of American Idol, giving the rising country singer an immediate milestone moment at one of the genre's most iconic institutions.
The Opry's "Summer of the Century" celebration is part of the venue's ongoing 100th anniversary festivities and will feature a packed lineup of concerts and special events throughout the summer.
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Additional CMA Fest week performances are scheduled to include artists such as Flatland Cavalry, Jordan Davis, Deana Carter, Old Crow Medicine Show, Maddox Batson, Pam Tillis and more.
The celebration will also include the upcoming Opry 100 Honors: Don Williams tribute concert on June 10 featuring performers including Keith Urban, Trisha Yearwood and Rodney Crowell. Later in the month, the venue will spotlight its "Opry Celebrates '90s Country" event on June 28.
Beyond the concerts, the Opry's summer programming will feature backstage tours and a free Outdoor Concert Series running on Fridays and Saturdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Tickets for all 2026 Opry shows through December are on sale now through the venue's official website.
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This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 8:57 AM.