Just days after capturing America’s heart as the American Idol Season 23 runner-up, John Foster had something even more personal to celebrate—his one-year anniversary with girlfriend Brooklyn Bourque. On Wednesday, May 28, the rising country star took to Instagram to post a touching tribute that had fans swooning.

“It’s been an amazing year and you’ve been beside me every step of the way,” Foster wrote alongside a cozy Memorial Day Weekend snapshot of the couple. “Happy 1 year anniversary. I love you so much.”

The couple has been a visible duo throughout Foster’s journey, with Bourque often cheering from the Idol audience and sharing behind-the-scenes moments on social media. She recently joined him for Cajun Country Jam, where Foster delivered his first major post-Idol performance. Her Instagram stories showed him lighting up the stage—and clearly, her heart, too.

But the celebration doesn’t stop there for Foster. In just a few days, he’s set to perform in Nashville on June 4 alongside fellow Idol contestants and alumni, keeping the momentum going from his unforgettable run on the show. Then, on June 7, he’ll achieve one of the biggest milestones in country music: his Grand Ole Opry debut.

“The first time I went to the Opry, I fought back tears because I was so overwhelmed with joy,” Foster shared. “There is no place more sacred to me as a country music lover than the Grand Ole Opry. This has been my dream from the beginning. Because of your support, it’s finally coming true. Glory be to God!”

Fans and industry insiders alike have taken note of Foster’s steady rise. His combination of humility, southern charm, and raw vocal talent has earned him not only a growing fanbase, but also the admiration of country music veterans—Luke Bryan famously gifted him a cherished acoustic guitar and cowboy hat as a personal tribute following the finale.

While Foster basks in the glow of new love and new stages, Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts is also riding high. His debut single “Heal,” a powerful rendition of Tom Odell’s emotional ballad, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart and No. 2 overall in Digital Song Sales. Both artists, in their own lanes, are proving that American Idol Season 23 wasn’t just packed with talent—it was packed with heart.

As Foster looks ahead to the Opry stage, and continues building his future with Bourque by his side, it’s clear that this country crooner’s story is just getting started.