‘American Idol’ Winner Maddie Poppe Got Her Start in Church

Maddie Poppe took the crown in ABC’s reboot of American Idol in last night’s season finale.

“I watched Maddie at church, sing in Sunday School,” says Mike Ruby, who is organized Poppe’s concert during her homecoming episode. “She was on the backstage setup crew … helping set up concerts for other acts.”

Fellow Christian Cade Foehner made it to the top 10 this season.

Of Maddie, he says: “You are one of the most unapologetically honest people I’ve ever met. You are one of only people who sounds just as angelic in a hotel room for three people as you do on a stage in front of millions.”

The season finale also revealed Poppe is dating runner-up Caleb Lee Hutchinson.

Hutchinson is a believer as well.

I have spent the last 24 hours trying to comprehend my life right now. I just want to thank the Good Lord for allowing me to be doing this and turning my tragedy into triumph. Secondly, thank you to America, for believing in me and putting me in a state of disbelief over the support I’ve been getting from y’all. Not to long ago I had little to no support at all other than my parents. I don’t take any of this for granted y’all. Thank you so much, I will work harder than I ever have and try to make y’all proud. Thank you so much to all my #hutchpuppies for being on this journey with me. God Bless! #americanidol

A post shared by Caleb Lee Hutchinson (@calebleemusic) on May 7, 2018 at 8:19pm PDT

The couple is open about their faith on social media. Here are some examples:

My brother âœï¸ Thankful for our friendship and the privilege of knowing such an amazing person.

A post shared by Caleb Lee Hutchinson (@calebleemusic) on Apr 17, 2018 at 3:37pm PDT

AMERICA! I can’t even put into words the feelings that I feel right now. I’m beyond blessed and so grateful. You’ve honestly made my dreams come true, each and every one of you. Thank you. #americanidol pic.twitter.com/Rp7eUyPH9k

— Maddie Poppe (@MaddiePoppe) April 30, 2018

Exactly two years ago today I thought this was what I really wanted. But sometimes what God doesn’t give you turns out to be the biggest blessing.

A post shared by Maddie Poppe (@maddiepoppe) on Oct 12, 2017 at 8:41am PDT

Happy Birthday to the guy who showed me what it means to be a man. Who taught me how to fish and hunt. To love Jesus and be there for the ones you love. I wouldn’t be the guy I am today without your love and guidance. You are the man. I love you.

A post shared by Caleb Lee Hutchinson (@calebleemusic) on Jul 26, 2015 at 8:42pm PDT