REDLANDS talent Harlan Goode has delivered a show-stopping performance in the Australian Idol Grand Finale, earning a standing ovation from judges and cementing his place as one of the competition’s breakout stars.
Performing Fame by Irene Cara, Harlan took to the stage with confidence and belief, declaring beforehand the magnitude of the moment.
“Harlan ‘Fame (the song) a lot of pressure’,” he said.
“My ambition has gotten so much bigger. Winning is so close. Being the next Australian Idol, my dream is right in front of me.”
“It’s up to Australia, so I need to deliver a show-stopping performance.”
He did exactly that — with judges on their feet and Kyle Sandilands even dancing on the spot.
Judge Marcia Hines was full of praise for the young performer’s growth across the series.
“Harlan, I don’t think anybody’s ever going to forget your name.. That was fantastic, it’s so wonderful to see how you’ve grown and metamorphosed.
“You’ve been ambitious since the day we saw you, and you keep stepping in up and stepping it up.”
In a lighter moment, Sandilands turned to Harlan’s mother in the crowd, asking if her son had always been driven.
“This kid is something else, honestly,” she replied.
Fellow judge Amy Shark also highlighted Harlan’s transformation throughout the competition.
“You have busted out of your shell in every way, your personality… I love how you know exactly what you want. I loved it I love watching you.”
Sandilands added: “Wonderful young man with a huge, impressive voice. You twisted it into your delivery, and I loved every second of it. You are such a surprise every week.”
Host Ricki-Lee Coulter reminded viewers just how far Harlan has come in a short time.
“You are such a superstar but only a couple of months ago, you were working in Skippy’s the fruit and veggie shops in Brissy.
“The Harlan shake has sold out, but they delivered on to judge Kyle, that is very, very good taste, like a strawberry fruit explosion of wonderfulness.”
The emotional night continued with video messages from Sheldon College and former teachers, as well as heartfelt support from his parents, including his father Rohan.
“This is going to be epic,” his dad said ahead of Harlan’s duet performance.
Taking the stage alongside Anthony Callea for The Prayer, Harlan again impressed.
“Harlan nailed it again,” Sandilands said.
Marcia Hines added: “I’m looking at a tour here, I’m just saying. The two of you together are outstanding so beautiful.”
Callea described the moment as special.
“So good to be back, it feels surreal to share it with Harlan, it’s a privilege to sing (The Prayer) it’s been an absolute honour to share the stage with him.”
He also joked he wasn’t even born when he first performed the song on Australian Idol.
With the winner set to be announced live at 7.30pm Tuesday on Seven and 7plus, Harlan’s performance has put him firmly in contention — and captured the attention of audiences across the country.
