In a moment that captured the essence of family, legacy, and unexpected magic, the Season 28 finale of The Voice delivered one of its most touching highlights when Aiden Ross stepped up to perform a holiday classic with none other than Gina Miles—the very artist who handed Niall Horan his first coaching victory back in Season 23. With Horan sidelined by illness and doctor’s orders for vocal rest, the planned coach-finalist duets took an unforeseen turn, but the substitute pairing of Ross and Miles proved to be surprisingly special, leaving audiences emotional and the internet buzzing.
The two-night extravaganza on December 15 and 16, 2025, culminated in Aiden Ross being crowned the Season 28 winner, securing Horan his remarkable third consecutive coaching triumph despite his absence from the stage. But it was the holiday-themed duet that stole hearts during the results show, transforming a potential disappointment into a full-circle celebration of Team Niall’s enduring success.
Gina Miles, the soulful pop singer-songwriter who won Season 23 with her haunting renditions and undeniable stage presence, returned to the Voice stage for this poignant performance. Dressed in chic holiday elegance—a white blouse paired with a black skirt—Miles brought her signature emotional depth to Wham!’s iconic “Last Christmas.” Opposite her stood Aiden Ross, the Texas A&M student whose powerful vocals and relatable charm had carried him to the top, looking sharp in a red leather jacket that added a festive edge to his performance.
Their rendition was a masterclass in harmony and chemistry. Miles’ rich, emotive tone blended seamlessly with Ross’s smooth, commanding delivery, turning the 1984 pop classic into a modern, heartfelt ballad infused with subtle runs and layered builds. The staging was simple yet effective: soft lighting evoking snowy nights, subtle holiday accents, and a focus on their voices that allowed the lyrics’ themes of heartbreak and reflection to shine through. Ross even added a sweet, impromptu touch—picking up a fallen stuffed bear prop and presenting it to Miles at the song’s close, earning cheers from the live audience.
What made the duet truly special was the context. Miles wasn’t just any guest; she was the breakthrough artist who launched Horan’s unbeatable Voice streak, defeating strong competition in a closely contested Season 23 finale. Her win marked Horan’s debut as a coach, and now, stepping in for him during his health setback, she helped propel another of his talents to victory. It felt like passing the torch—a beautiful nod to mentorship, growth, and the lasting bonds formed on the show.
Viewers at home were deeply moved. Social media lit up with reactions: tears for the full-circle symbolism, praise for the vocal synergy, and gratitude for a performance that captured the holiday spirit amid competition. “This duet was everything—Gina coming back to sing with Niall’s new winner? I’m emotional,” one fan posted. Another added, “Last Christmas has never hit this hard. Their voices together are pure magic.”
Horan, though unable to perform due to a rough few weeks of illness, appeared in pre-taped segments and expressed his appreciation for the stand-ins. Fellow coach Reba McEntire filled in for his other finalist, the trio DEK of Hearts, while Miles handled Ross’s slot. Horan later shared his relief at recovering, but the night belonged to the artists who carried the Team Niall legacy forward.
The finale itself was a star-studded affair, packed with guest performances from Khalid, XG, Journey with Neal Schon, Zac Brown Band, Noah Cyrus, and more. Coaches Michael Bublé, Reba McEntire, and Snoop Dogg joined in medleys and duets, but the substitute moments added an extra layer of warmth and resilience.
Aiden Ross’s victory capped a dominant season for Horan, who has now won every time he’s coached—Season 23 with Miles, Season 24 with Huntley, and now Season 28 with Ross. It’s a perfect record that solidifies his status as one of the show’s most successful mentors, blending Irish charm with genuine investment in his artists.
For Gina Miles, the return was a triumphant reminder of her lasting impact. Since her 2023 win, she’s released singles like the recent “Hey Stranger,” performed at high-profile events, and continued building her career with quiet determination. Stepping back onto the Voice stage to support the next generation felt like poetic justice—a champion lifting up the newcomer who would soon wear the crown.
In a competition often defined by rivalries and high stakes, this unexpected duet reminded everyone why The Voice endures: it’s about talent, heart, and those serendipitous connections that turn moments into memories. “Last Christmas” may be about giving your heart away, but on this night, Miles and Ross gave the audience something unforgettable—a performance that was, indeed, surprisingly special.
As the confetti fell for Aiden Ross, fans reflected on a finale full of surprises, but none more touching than this holiday harmony born from necessity. Team Niall’s story continues to inspire, proving that sometimes, the best gifts come wrapped in the unexpected.
