SYDNEY — With the grand finale of Australian Idol 2026 just days away, 18-year-old powerhouse vocalist Harlan Goode from Brisbane has surged as the clear favorite among fans and commentators to claim the season 11 title on Channel Seven.

The competition, which premiered Feb. 2 on Seven and 7plus, reaches its climax with live performances from the remaining top six contestants expected around April 13-14 at the Coliseum in Rooty Hill. Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie, the season has featured judges Kyle Sandilands, Marcia Hines and Amy Shark delivering their signature mix of tough love and encouragement.

Goode, often praised for his mature tone, emotional depth and stage presence that evokes comparisons to Adam Lambert without imitation, has consistently wowed audiences and the panel with powerhouse ballads. Fan comments on the official Australian Idol Facebook page repeatedly declare him the “full package” and “superstar material,” with many predicting he will take the crown. “Harlan has to win based on talent,” one viewer posted, while others noted his youth gives him “his whole life ahead” to build a career.

The top six, announced in late March, include Goode alongside strong contenders Jacinta Guirguis, Kalani Artis, and others who have survived intense public voting rounds. Earlier, the top 12 featured diverse talents such as soul singer Charlie Moon from Perth, Kesha Oayda, Simela Petridis, Trè Samuels and more. Multiple eliminations narrowed the field through March, with public votes deciding most fates after the live shows began.

Kalani Artis has drawn significant attention for his smooth, distinctive style. YouTube comments on his “Don’t Dream It’s Over” performance during Aussie Week called him a potential “Australian Idol 2026” with a sound blending Harry Styles and Calum Scott. Some fans argue he “does not miss a key” and possesses his own identity. Jacinta Guirguis also features prominently in fan predictions for a top-three finish.

Season 11 has emphasized artist development more than past iterations, according to executive producer Joel McCormack. The show aims to launch sustainable careers rather than one-hit wonders, building on recent winners like Dylan Wright, who earned chart success and awards after his 2024 victory. The 2025 champion, Marshall Hamburger, a 19-year-old Queenslander, walked away with $100,000 and a recording deal; early signs suggest 2026’s winner could follow a similar path with strong original material potential.

Public voting has been fierce. After the top 12 performances, eliminations shook up expectations, sending some early standouts home despite strong judge feedback. By the top 10 and top 8 stages, viewer support proved decisive. Contestants like Simela Petridis advanced with judge saves or strong audience backing, highlighting the mix of vocal talent and fan engagement that defines Idol.

Judges have played a pivotal role. Sandilands, known for his blunt assessments, Hines with her legendary insight as a former Idol mentor figure, and Shark bringing contemporary pop credibility, have guided the field. Guest appearances added star power, but the core trio’s chemistry has kept the show engaging through auditions, knockouts and transformation week makeovers.

Goode’s journey began with a standout audition that earned him a fast pass into the top 12 in some reports, though details vary across coverage. His ability to deliver emotional, technically sound performances week after week has built a dedicated following. Fans on social media and fan groups frequently list him, Jacinta and Kalani as the likely top three, with debates centering on who commands the most votes in the final stretch.

The prize remains substantial: $100,000 cash plus a recording contract, offering the winner immediate industry access. Past contestants have leveraged the platform for tours, ARIA nominations and sustained careers. Producers stress this season’s focus on preparing artists for the road, with several top 12 members already demonstrating touring readiness in judge feedback.

As the finale nears, speculation fills social platforms. Some viewers predict an upset if a dark horse like Tre Samuels or a returning bottom-two survivor gains momentum. Others insist Goode’s consistent excellence makes him unstoppable. Betting sites have not yet posted formal odds for the 2026 finale, but informal fan sentiment heavily favors the young Brisbane singer.

The live grand finale will see the top contestants deliver signature hits and possibly original material before Australia votes one last time. Tickets were reportedly available for the April 13-14 shows, promising a high-energy night with studio audience and celebrity guests.

Australian Idol’s return to Seven has maintained strong viewership, capitalizing on nostalgia while introducing fresh voices. The 2026 season follows the 2025 win by Marshall Hamburger, whose post-show momentum included new singles and touring. Whomever claims victory this year steps into a franchise with proven star-making power — from Guy Sebastian’s enduring success to more recent alumni carving independent paths.

For now, all eyes remain on Harlan Goode. His vocal range, emotional connection and undeniable star quality have positioned him as the contestant to beat. Yet Idol history shows that public voting can deliver surprises, especially when multiple strong vocalists remain.

Jacinta Guirguis brings a compelling story and vocal fire that resonates with many. Kalani Artis offers a modern, genre-blending appeal that could capture younger voters. The final performances will likely decide whether Goode’s frontrunner status holds or if another talent rises in the decisive vote.

As the clock ticks toward the April finale, excitement builds across Australia. Fans are urged to vote via the official 7plus app or SMS when lines open. The winner will not only take home the title but launch what producers hope becomes a lasting music career.

With the top six delivering their best, the 2026 Australian Idol promises a memorable conclusion to another captivating season. Whether Harlan Goode fulfills fan predictions or another name is called on finale night, the competition has once again showcased the depth of Australian singing talent.

TUCSON, Ariz. — More than two months after 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson home in what authorities call a targeted abduction, the FBI has increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to her recovery or the arrest of those responsible, as the high-profile case continues to baffle investigators and captivate the nation.

Guthrie, mother of NBC’s “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was last seen Jan. 31 when family members dropped her off at her Catalina Foothills residence after a games night. She was reported missing the next day, Feb. 1. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos quickly declared she had been taken against her will, citing evidence at the scene including drops of her blood on the porch and signs of forced removal. “She couldn’t walk 50 yards by herself,” Nanos told reporters, emphasizing that voluntary departure was not believed.

Surveillance footage released by the FBI shows a masked suspect in dark clothing, gloves and a backpack approaching Guthrie’s front door in the early morning hours of Feb. 1. The individual is seen tampering with her doorbell camera — propping it open with vegetation before disconnecting it — while holding a flashlight in his mouth, potentially leaving behind biological evidence from saliva. A similar masked figure was captured on Nest cam footage three weeks earlier, on Jan. 11, raising questions about prior surveillance of the home.

The case stands out for its rarity. FBI data from recent years shows that while women make up over 75% of reported kidnapping or abduction victims, those in their 80s account for less than 0.2% of cases. Experts have described the abduction of an elderly woman requiring daily medication as “unheard of” in its specifics, especially given the apparent amateurish elements mixed with targeted planning.

Ransom demands surfaced early. Media outlets, including local stations and TMZ, reportedly received notes demanding millions — initially $4 million, later raised to $6 million — with Bitcoin payment instructions and deadlines. One note referenced a specific time aligning with the camera disconnection. Savannah Guthrie publicly appealed to the kidnappers, posting videos asking for proof her mother was alive and stating the family was ready to negotiate. No confirmed communication has been reported since the deadlines passed, deepening family anguish.

Savannah Guthrie, who has stepped back from her “Today” duties, has shared emotional updates. She described hearing what she believed was a divine message about her mother’s fate and revealed her young daughter Vale asked heartbreaking questions about Grandma Nancy. The family offered a $1 million reward for tips leading to Nancy’s safe return, acknowledging the grim possibility she may no longer be alive. “Whether she’s on this Earth still or whether she’s in Heaven, I know where she is,” Savannah said in one appearance.

Investigators recovered DNA evidence, including from gloves found near the home that matched the suspect’s apparent attire, though early CODIS hits proved unrelated — one belonging to a restaurant worker. Other potential leads, including a detained man and his mother questioned in a SWAT raid, were released without charges. A vehicle and additional residences near the Guthrie home were searched, yielding no immediate breakthroughs.

Sheriff Nanos has stated investigators believe they know the motive and that the home was specifically targeted, though he stopped short of full certainty. Former FBI agents and analysts have speculated on possibilities ranging from a ransom plot gone wrong to revenge or a link to cryptocurrency schemes seen in other Arizona home invasions around the same period. Nanos warned the suspect “could absolutely” strike again, urging residents to remain vigilant.

Criticism of the investigation has mounted. Reports suggest initial responders may have considered a “wandering off” scenario before shifting to abduction, and one lead detective reportedly lacked prior homicide experience. A recall effort against the sheriff has gained traction amid frustration over the lack of arrests more than 60 days later. The FBI has provided additional resources, releasing updated suspect descriptions and enhancing the reward.

Nancy Guthrie, née Long, lived a relatively private life despite her daughter’s fame. A religious woman and mother of three, she had ties to Australia where Savannah was born in Melbourne. The family has cooperated fully, with Savannah’s siblings also involved in appeals. No family members or their spouses are considered suspects, according to authorities.

The case has spotlighted the broader issue of missing persons in Tucson, where dozens of other cases remain open. Experts note the emotional toll on families facing prolonged uncertainty, especially when the victim is elderly and dependent on medication. Guthrie’s health needs have heightened fears for her safety as weeks turn into months.

Online speculation has run rampant, leading to unwarranted accusations against innocent locals and one family reporting they felt “scared numb” after amateur sleuths targeted their street. Law enforcement has urged the public to avoid spreading unverified theories and to submit tips through official channels.

As the search continues, air and ground efforts, neighborhood canvassing and analysis of thousands of tips have yielded limited progress. The suspect’s backpack — described as an “Ozark Trail Hiker Pack” — and low-quality holster have been highlighted as potential identifiers, with some analysts pointing to the amateur nature of the crime, including the counterproductive camera tampering that actually preserved footage.

Pima County authorities, alongside federal partners, continue to treat the matter as an active kidnapping investigation. No arrests have been made, and Nancy Guthrie’s whereabouts remain unknown. Her family maintains hope while preparing for all possibilities.

The unusual details — an elderly victim, celebrity connection, ransom notes, prior surveillance and sparse forensics — have made the Nancy Guthrie case one of the most discussed disappearances in recent memory. It serves as a stark reminder of vulnerabilities even in seemingly safe suburban homes.

Tips can be submitted to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department or the FBI. As authorities press forward with enhanced rewards and public appeals, the central question lingers: Who took Nancy Guthrie, and why?

With no resolution in sight entering April, the investigation remains fluid. Savannah Guthrie and her family continue pleading for information, while experts caution that time is critical given the victim’s age and medical needs.

The nation watches as Tucson authorities and the FBI work to bring closure to a mystery that defies easy

New research from RenewableUK Cymru shows support for renewables amongst people who intend to vote for all the parties

There is is strong support across the political spectrum in Wales for an expansion in renewable energy. Research commissioned by RenewableUK Cymru show that 71% of people in Wales believe renewable energy development should increase, with just 6% saying it should decrease. Moreover, a majority of people (58%) want Wales’s future energy system to be mainly or entirely based on renewable energy.

Support for renewables cuts across party lines, with strong backing among Labour (82%), Plaid Cymru (80%), Conservative (73%) and Green (76%) voters. Reform voters are more divided, but even amajority (59%) favour more renewable energy development.

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However, the polling also highlights important nuances in public opinion that challenge assumptions about opposition to renewable projects and energy infrastructure. Voters are broadly pro‑renewables and open to the trade‑offs when costs and community benefits are clear – suggesting some political debate is drifting away from where public opinion actually sits.

Public support for renewables is strong, but voters – especially Reform UK supporters – are clear that driving bills down is also a key priority. Lowering bills over time is one of the most commonly cited benefits of renewables among voters, but cost and affordability are also among their top concerns.

This becomes particularly clear when people are shown information on the cost of electricity grid infrastructure. Public views actively flip once costs are understood. When voters are not shown cost information, 53% prefer underground cables – but that falls to 29% once they’re told undergrounding can cost up to five times more, while support for overhead pylons rises sharply from 14% to 43%.

Around two thirds of voters say they would not be willing to pay higher energy bills to fund more expensive grid options, and this trend is particularly strong among Reform UK voters.

The findings suggest public attitudes are not fixed or ideological, but pragmatic and responsive to clear information about costs and consequences.

The polling also reveals a striking gap between how people perceive Wales’s current performance and the reality. Around four in ten people believe Wales already generates a higher share of its electricity from renewables than the UK average, when in fact Wales is currently behind (33% of electricity generation comes from renewables in Wales, versus just over 50% for the UK as a whole). When presented with the reality in focus groups, participants expressed surprise and disappointment – indicating that many people expect Wales to be further ahead and want to see faster progress.

The research also challenges assumptions about public attitudes to community benefit funds linked to renewable energy projects.

Over three quarters of people say they have little or no understanding of community benefit funding schemes. Many also significantly underestimate how much money typically flows back into local communities from the average onshore wind farm in Wales.

When told that for every £1 in post-tax profit a developer makes, 37 pence is reinvested into the local community, nearly two-thirds (65%) of people say that knowing this would make them more likely to support a renewable project in their area. The effect is strongest among Plaid Cymru voters, for whom community benefit and local reinvestment are among the most persuasive reasons to support renewable energy.

This suggests that scepticism is often driven by lack of information, rather than fixed views – and that clear, concrete explanations of how communities benefit can actively shift support, especially among voters who prioritise local value and fairness.

Jessica Hooper, director of RenewableUK Cymru, said:“This research shows that people in Wales are firmly behind renewable energy, across political divides – but it also shows they are thoughtful and pragmatic, not blindly supportive or ideologically opposed. They want honesty about the trade-offs, clear information on costs and delivery, and confidence that communities will share in the rewards.

“The risk now is not public resistance but misreading public opinion. With electricity demand projected to double – potentially triple – by 2050, decision makers need policies that deliver clean power at pace, keep bills affordable, and be honest about the trade-offs, clear information on costs and delivery, and confidence that communities will share in the rewards.

“The risk now is not public resistance but misreading public opinion. With electricity demand projected to double – potentially triple – by 2050, decision makers need policies that deliver clean power at pace, keep bills affordable, and be honest about the trade-offs.”

SYDNEY — As Australian Idol 2026 heads toward its grand finale, 23-year-old Kalani Artis from the New South Wales Central Coast has emerged as one of the season’s most compelling contestants, blending raw vocal talent with a deeply personal backstory that has resonated with viewers and judges alike.

From his standout audition to consistent top performances, Artis has captivated audiences with smooth, emotional delivery often compared to world-class artists. Here are 10 key things to know about the singer-songwriter who traded landscaping tools for the Idol stage.

1. Hometown roots on the Central Coast: Artis hails from Bensville and Umina Beach on the NSW Central Coast. He proudly represents the region, with local fans rallying behind him through community support and social media campaigns. His grounded, approachable demeanor reflects the laid-back coastal lifestyle, even as he navigates the high-pressure national spotlight.
2. Former landscaper turned performer: Before Idol, Artis worked as a tradie in landscaping. Known among fans as the “shy tradie,” he left the physically demanding job to pursue music full time. The transition marked a major life shift, with the competition providing the platform he needed to step away from manual labor and into the entertainment industry.
3. Nana Sue’s guitar sparked his passion: Artis credits his beloved grandmother, Nana Sue, with igniting his musical journey. She gifted him his first guitar when he was 11 years old. Though he set it aside for a few years during a difficult period, he picked it up again at age 14, using music as an outlet. He has repeatedly thanked her publicly, with touching moments featuring her support during the show.
4. Overcame significant mental health struggles: Artis has openly discussed his battles with anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation. After dropping out of school young, he experienced dark periods where he “locked himself away” and felt alone. Music became his “medicine,” helping him process emotions and rebuild confidence. His willingness to share this vulnerability has inspired many viewers facing similar challenges.
5. Audition earned highest praise from Amy Shark: Artis auditioned with a powerful rendition of Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn.” Judge Amy Shark declared it “the best audition I’ve ever seen,” a rare accolade that immediately positioned him as a frontrunner. The performance, which aired in early February 2026, garnered hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube and sparked widespread buzz for its emotional depth and technical excellence.
6. Consistent standout in live shows: Throughout the competition, Artis has delivered memorable performances across various themes. Highlights include a stunning cover of Crowded House during one week and a breathtaking “Take My Breath Away” in Top 12 Movie Week that left audiences and the room in awe. His smooth vocals and ability to connect lyrically have earned repeated acclaim from judges Kyle Sandilands, Marcia Hines and Shark.
7. Advanced to the Top 6: As of early April 2026, Artis remains in the final six contestants alongside strong contenders like Harlan Goode and Jacinta Guirguis. Public voting has kept him progressing through Top 12, Top 10 and beyond, with fans frequently predicting a top-three or even victory finish due to his consistent excellence and growing fan base.
8. Self-taught musician with soulful style: A self-taught singer-songwriter, Artis draws influences from artists like James Bay, Lewis Capaldi and MK.GEE, blending indie, soulful pop and folk elements. His original material and Idol performances showcase earthy, heartfelt songwriting that resonates personally. He has released several Idol performance tracks on platforms like Spotify, including “Torn” and “Wherever You Will Go,” gaining tens of thousands of monthly listeners.
9. Family and community support drives him: Artis frequently highlights his family’s role, especially Nana Sue, who appears supportive in the audience. The Central Coast community has mobilized with voting drives and local pride campaigns. His Instagram account (@kalaniartis) serves as a hub for fans to connect, with posts encouraging collective growth and thanking supporters.
10. Asthma management moment highlighted human side: During one tense episode, Artis momentarily misplaced his nebulizer (“Nebby”), underscoring the everyday realities contestants face under pressure. The light-hearted yet relatable incident reminded viewers of his grounded personality amid the glitz of live television.

Artis’s journey on Australian Idol 2026 reflects more than vocal prowess — it embodies resilience and transformation. Born in 2002 or early 2003, the 23-year-old entered the competition carrying the weight of past struggles, including a recent breakup that added emotional layers to his performances. Judges and fans alike have noted how he “sings with lived experience,” bringing authenticity that sets him apart.

The season, hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie on Channel Seven and 7plus, has emphasized artist development. For Artis, the show has already changed his life, providing national exposure, recording opportunities and a platform to share his music beyond the Central Coast.

Fan reactions on social media and fan groups frequently describe his voice as “world-class” and “stunning,” with many predicting he could follow in the footsteps of previous Idol alumni who built sustainable careers. His Spotify presence and performance singles indicate growing commercial interest.

Yet Artis remains humble. In interviews, he has spoken about the leap from hiding in the shadows to performing live for millions, acknowledging fears that old mental health challenges could resurface under the intense scrutiny. Music, he says, continues to ground him.

As the finale approaches in mid-April, voting lines remain open via the 7plus app and designated numbers. Supporters are urged to back Artis with multiple votes per episode, as public preference will decide the ultimate winner.

Beyond the competition, Artis represents a new generation of Australian artists who leverage personal stories for connection. His path from landscaper to Idol contender highlights how opportunity, family encouragement and inner strength can intersect on a national stage.

Industry observers note that contestants like Artis, with genuine backstories and consistent talent, often translate Idol success into long-term careers involving tours, original releases and media appearances. His smooth delivery and genre-blending style position him well for pop, indie and acoustic markets.

With the Top 6 delivering high-stakes performances, Artis continues to impress with emotional control and vocal range. Whether covering classics or infusing originals with personal meaning, he has maintained poise that belies his relatively young age in the industry.

The broader Australian Idol narrative in 2026 has celebrated diversity of talent and stories. Artis’s openness about mental health adds depth to the season’s conversation around wellbeing in the entertainment industry.

As fans prepare for the climax, Kalani Artis stands as a reminder that behind every polished performance lies a human journey of growth, setback and triumph. His presence has enriched the competition, offering both entertainment and inspiration.

For those following the season, Artis’s trajectory offers lessons in perseverance. From a gifted guitar at age 11 to commanding the Idol stage at 23, his story underscores music’s transformative power.

With strong local and national backing, the Central Coast singer remains a favorite heading into the final stretch. Whatever the outcome, Kalani Artis has already secured a place in the hearts of many Australians as a talented, relatable and resilient artist to watch.