American Idol Top 10 finalist John Foster may have stunned the nation with his incredible voice—but it’s the astonishing revelations from his grandparents that are now capturing headlines

On any given Monday in Addis, Louisiana, the scent of comfort food wafts through the air at Benoit’s Country Meat Block, where locals line up for plates of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, and dessert—all for just $10.99. But lately, there’s something more stirring the community than just the hearty meals. A wave of pride has swept through the family-run Cajun store, thanks to the national rise of “American Idol” contestant John Foster, a familiar face and hometown treasure.

Nestled less than a mile from the Mississippi River, Benoit’s is now buzzing not only with the sizzle of boudin and the spice of gumbo but with conversation about John’s journey on the Idol stage. His roots run deep in Louisiana, with family ties stretching back to Church Point and Lawtell. When he traveled to Nashville for his audition, he didn’t arrive empty-handed—he brought along beloved Cajun flavors like boudin, jerky, and the store’s signature seasoning blend.

According to his 75-year-old grandmother, Verbie Benoit, one of the judges, country star Luke Bryan, couldn’t get enough of the local seasoning. “He was licking it off his fingers,” she chuckled, still in awe of the moment. Though Verbie never imagined her grandson becoming a household name, she says John constantly reveals new layers of talent. She’s packed her bags, rosary in hand, and is making her way to Hollywood along with 31 family members to witness his performance in the Top 10. “I’m not praying for him to win,” she said. “I just pray that God stays by his side.”

Despite the growing attention, John hasn’t let fame steer him off course. He’s a full-time biology student at Louisiana State University, completing his coursework online while pursuing his dream. With aspirations to one day become an oncologist, he balances music with science. His academic record is impressive—he was once co-valedictorian—and his family describes him as not only gifted but deeply grounded in faith. “He’s a good Christian boy,” his grandmother says with pride, recalling how one of his teachers once predicted he’d be governor. The family jokes he might just go for president instead.

In the back of the shop, behind the meat counter, employees who’ve watched him grow up beam with pride. Rick Bourgoyne and Blake Sarradet love to tell customers that “Foster” is actually his middle name—his full name is John Foster Benoit III. They remember him stocking shelves and helping out during the holidays. His musical beginnings are credited to his uncle, local musician Gaylen Martin, who inspired John early on with family jam sessions.

Newer employees are just as invested. Regina DeBenedetto, who recently joined the team, beams as she shares her efforts to support John’s Idol journey. “I voted for him 30 times,” she laughs. “He’s not just talented—he listens, he learns, and he gives everything when he steps on that stage.” The whole community seems to be rallying behind him, urging each other to vote and tune in every week.

As the town watches John’s rise unfold, they see more than just a performer—they see a young man shaped by their values, traditions, and love. Whether he ends up selling out arenas or saving lives in a lab coat, one thing remains constant: his foundation is strong, rooted in humility and culture.

People in Addis talk about John with the kind of admiration usually reserved for legends. “He’s got all the right ingredients,” said one customer in line at Benoit’s. “He’s smart, he’s kind, and he hasn’t forgotten where he came from.” It’s clear that success hasn’t changed him—it’s only amplified what was already there.

At Benoit’s, there’s no shortage of love for their local star. Every dish they serve now seems to come with a story about John. His presence is felt in the seasoning jars, in the music that plays softly in the background, and in the hearts of the people who knew him before the world did.

This small Louisiana town may be tucked away from the limelight, but its spirit shines bright through John Foster. In every vote cast and every cheer from the counter, the message is clear—Addis stands behind him, with pride as rich as the flavors they’ve shared with the nation.