He may have stolen hearts — and nearly the title — on American Idol, but fans are now discovering that “John Foster” isn’t the name this rising country-pop sensation was born with.

In a candid post-Idol interview that’s sparked a wave of curiosity and online sleuthing, the Season 23 runner-up opened up about the decision to leave his real name behind when stepping into the national spotlight.

“I wasn’t trying to hide anything,” Foster said. “It just didn’t feel like me anymore.”

So, what is John Foster’s real name? He’s not keeping it secret: Jacob Hollins. Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the artist formerly known as Jacob says the shift to “John Foster” came during a transitional period in his late teens — when he was struggling with both his musical identity and the weight of a name that, to him, didn’t fit the stage he dreamed of.

“Jacob Hollins was the kid who got picked last in gym class. John Foster is the guy who walks out in front of 10,000 people and sings his damn heart out.”

Fans are divided. Some are praising Foster’s transparency and saying the change makes perfect sense. Others are questioning the decision, wondering why an artist who champions authenticity would feel the need to rebrand in the first place.

But Foster’s response to the critics is refreshingly grounded.

“It’s not about faking who I am. It’s about becoming who I was always meant to be,” he said. “A name change didn’t erase my past — it just gave me the confidence to chase my future.”

While his new moniker may sound tailor-made for a Billboard chart, Foster insists it wasn’t the work of a manager or marketing team — just a personal choice that stuck.

And it’s working. Since his American Idol finale performance, Foster’s debut single “Echo in the Pines” has soared on streaming platforms, and his upcoming tour is already selling out mid-size venues across the South.

Still, some fans are dying to know: Will “Jacob Hollins” ever make a comeback?

“Maybe on an acoustic album one day,” Foster laughed. “Or if I ever write a song about middle school heartbreak. That was definitely Jacob’s territory.”

One thing is clear: whether it’s John Foster or Jacob Hollins, this artist is only just getting started — and no name is going to stop him now.

Stay tuned… and maybe keep an ear out for that middle school heartbreak track.