Abi Carter Reveals Plans After American Idol Win and Reflects on the 'Most Emotional Day of My Life'

Abi Carter is enjoying the moment.

On Sunday, May 19, Carter was announced for the 22nd season American Idol. After the show, PEOPLE spoke with Carter in a group interview to reflect on her emotions and discuss what’s next for the singer-songwriter.

“I can’t even describe how amazing it was,” said Carter, 21, who fell to the ground in tears after her name was announced.

Reflecting on what prompted the genuine reaction, Carter says she’s never been more “in tune” with her emotions than she was on the singing competition show.

“To be honest, you couldn’t have gotten a better reaction,” Carter says. “Usually I just cry, but I hope people know it’s really genuine. I think this has been the most emotional day of my life, and yet I feel so numb. It’s so interesting.”

Ryan Seacrest and Abi Carter on American Idol May 19, 2024

Disney/Eric McCandless

American Idol There is a new champion! Abi Carter wins season 22

Abi Carter and Lionel Richie May 19, 2024

Disney/Eric McCandless

After a tumultuous season, Carter is looking forward to some R&R.

“I’m thinking about going home, taking a shower, maybe watching Friends. It’ll help me sleep, and then I’ll get ready for my flight to New York in the morning,” says Carter, who will appear on LIVE with Kelly and Mark Tuesday.

Abi Carter and Katy Perry on American Idol May 19, 2024

Disney/Eric McCandless

During the show, Carter took the stage for a number of solo and group performances, one of which was to sing her recently released single “This Isn’t Over”.

However, the highlight of the night was when host Ryan Seacrest surprised Carter with a special message from Billie Eilish. (Carter auditioned for the show with a cover of Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?”)

Ryan Seacrest, Will Moseley and Abi Carter May 19, 2024

Disney/Eric McCandless

Katy Perry gets emotional and cries during the finale American Idol Season finale

“I should have been eliminated right then and there. I was like, ‘I’m winning. I’m winning in life. I’m winning.’ That was my favorite,” she says.

Next up, Carter can’t wait to get back into the studio to work on her music career.

Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, Abi Carter and Lionel Richie on American Idol May 19, 2024

Disney/Eric McCandless

“I want to start releasing songs as soon as possible. I’ve been writing for so long and I can’t wait to put something out into the world that I believe in so completely,” she says.

Carter adds, “Not that the others I’ve thrown out haven’t because they have, but I think they’ll be just a little bit different and I’m really excited about that.”

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Source: HIS Education