In a finale that blended high-stakes performances, holiday cheer, and emotional surprises, Aiden Ross from Team Niall Horan emerged as the champion of The Voice Season 28 on December 16, 2025. The 20-year-old Texas A&M University student, whose relatable charm and powerful vocals captivated America throughout the competition, topped fan polls and viewer votes even before the official results were announced—prophesying a victory that solidified Niall Horan’s perfect coaching record with an unprecedented three-peat.
Ross’s win marks Horan’s third consecutive triumph on the show, having previously guided Gina Miles to victory in Season 23 and Huntley in Season 24. The former One Direction star, who returned for his third non-consecutive season alongside veterans Reba McEntire, Michael Bublé, and Snoop Dogg, now stands undefeated as a coach—a feat that has cemented his reputation as one of the most successful mentors in The Voice history.
From the moment Ross auditioned with a soulful rendition that earned turns from multiple coaches, he became a standout. His journey through Blinds, Battles, Knockouts, Playoffs, and Lives showcased versatility: heartfelt ballads, upbeat anthems, and emotional deliveries that connected deeply with viewers. Fan polls on social media and voting apps consistently placed him at the top, with many predicting his win weeks in advance. “Aiden has that effortless star quality—he sells every song like it’s his own story,” fans raved online, fueling viral clips and trending hashtags.
The two-night finale on December 15 and 16 was a spectacle of talent and celebration. The Top 6—Aiden Ross and DEK of Hearts (Team Niall), Aubrey Nicole (Team Reba), Jazz McKenzie and Max Chambers (Team Bublé), and Ralph Edwards (Team Snoop)—delivered show-stopping performances on Monday, vying for America’s overnight votes. Tuesday’s results show featured star-studded guests like Khalid, XG, Journey with Neal Schon, Zac Brown Band with Noah Cyrus, Riley Green, and previous winner Sofronio Vasquez III, turning the evening into a holiday extravaganza.
A touching highlight came when Horan, sidelined by illness and placed on vocal rest, couldn’t perform his traditional coach duets. Stepping in were Reba McEntire for DEK of Hearts and—poignantly—Gina Miles, Horan’s Season 23 winner, who joined Ross for a stunning rendition of “Last Christmas.” Their chemistry and vocal harmony turned the substitute moment into magic, symbolizing the full-circle legacy of Team Niall.
Results unfolded dramatically: Jazz McKenzie placed 6th, Max Chambers 5th, Aubrey Nicole 4th, DEK of Hearts 3rd, and Ralph Edwards a strong 2nd. When host Carson Daly announced Ross as the winner, confetti rained down amid cheers, tears, and embraces. Ross, visibly overwhelmed, thanked Horan for believing in him from day one, crediting the coach’s guidance for teaching him to “love what I’m doing.”
Horan’s perfect record—winning every season he’s coached—drew applause from fellow panelists. Bublé, aiming for his own three-peat after back-to-back wins, graciously congratulated the duo, while McEntire and Snoop praised the season’s talent depth. Snoop, coaching his second season, saw Edwards’ runner-up finish as a breakout moment.
Ross’s victory earns him a recording contract, $100,000 prize, and a platform to launch his career. The sophomore industrial distribution major from Texas applied on a whim, balancing studies with the competition. His authentic, down-to-earth persona resonated, blending technical skill with emotional storytelling—qualities Horan highlighted throughout.
The season itself was a standout: innovative formats like the “Mic Drop” wildcard boosting DEK of Hearts, fierce battles, and diverse artistry from soulful balladeers to country trios. Horan’s team dominated the finale with two spots, underscoring his knack for spotting winners.
As Season 28 wraps, eyes turn to Season 29—a “Battle of Champions” featuring returning legends Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine, and John Legend. But for now, the spotlight shines on Aiden Ross and Niall Horan: a young talent realizing dreams and a coach achieving perfection.
In a competition built on voice and heart, Ross’s win—and Horan’s three-peat—feels like the ultimate harmony. Congratulations to the newest Voice champion—the future sounds bright.
