Sunday, September 21 marked the finale of The Next Star, wrapping another memorable season with the Top 6 on stage, guest performances by Shawn Mendes and Echosmith, and the crowning of the season’s winner. Over the course of the show, Canada watched Ryland, Jory, Nissita, Kaleia, Michaelah, and Shon grow as artists, releasing their first singles and music videos crafted during the competition, each chapter adding to a year of vibrant talent. In the end, one performer would take home the title.
It was Jory, a 15-year-old singer from Nipigon, Ontario, who captivated the audience with a voice that balanced smooth resonance and expressive power. Her finale performance carried the weight of weeks of practice, growth, and a fan base that had followed her journey from the very first audition. The moment felt like a milestone not just for Jory but for a generation of young artists who watched closely and believed in what she could become.
Behind the scenes, the Top 6 shared a strong sense of camaraderie that underscored the season’s journey. After every show, the group gathered with their families for pizza and conversation, a grounded ritual that reflected the deep bonds formed through weeks of rehearsal and travel. Those moments offered a reminder that this is a competition, but it is also a once-in-a-lifetime experience that fuels friendships that endure beyond the studio lights. The energy on set suggested that growth mattered as much as winning. The show is a launchpad that can redefine a young artist’s path.
As the final performances came together, Jory pushed for a delivery that felt both polished and heartfelt. She carved out extra practice time whenever possible, aiming to balance technical accuracy with an authentic connection to the material. The hotel rehearsals with the Top 6 and the collaborative energy of the group song emphasized the power of teamwork even in a solo-focused competition. Those moments helped her discover a rhythm that felt natural on the big stage.
The journey showed clear progression since the audition. Jory described a notable improvement in stage presence, moving from a reserved stance to a more relaxed, dynamic performance style. The experience brought a new level of comfort, allowing her to convey emotion more freely and connect with the audience in a way that felt organic. The evolution reflected the guidance from mentors who emphasized authenticity and confidence over simply hitting every note.
For aspiring performers, Jory offered practical guidance: practice the chosen song until it feels second nature since first impressions can set the tone for the entire performance. She also reminded young artists to savor the moment and view the experience as a chance to learn, grow, and have fun. The show is about discovery as much as competition, and the message resonated with fans who understood that the journey matters as much as the prize.
Recording the single and filming the accompanying video were described as overwhelming and exhilarating experiences. Working with producer Rob Wells provided professional guidance, while Evan Winter helped create a comfortable environment in which Jory could shine on camera. Being the star of a music video was a novel experience, and it strengthened her sense of identity as a performer.
Moment after moment, the finale offered a blend of awe and achievement. Jory admitted feeling starstruck by Shawn Mendes, a young talent who had already sparked a global following, and by Echosmith, a group she had admired for years. Sharing the stage with these performers offered a rare glimpse into the industry and underscored the honor of being part of the finale.
The season also highlighted a close-knit bond among the Top 6. They remained friends, supporting each other and looking forward to future visits and possible collaborations. The experience underscored the idea that the industry rewards collaboration as much as individual ability, and the friendships formed on The Next Star can become lifelong connections.
With National Bullying Awareness Month approaching, Jory spoke about the importance of kindness and resilience. Having faced bullying herself, she urged others to seek support from trusted adults and to remember that they deserve to be heard. Her message resonated with a broad audience, reminding fans that success on stage is inseparable from standing up for one another off stage.
Toronto left a strong impression on Jory. She loved the energy of the city and the chance to be surrounded by industry professionals. The experience reinforced the idea that talent, persistence, and an authentic voice can open doors, and it was a city she could imagine calling home someday.
Reflecting on the most valuable piece of advice, Jory emphasized breaking out of the shell and being true to oneself. The encouragement from mentors who had worked with major artists added to her sense of pride and set the stage for the next steps in her journey. The moments of praise from industry veterans confirmed to her that the path she chose was meaningful and real.
The finale left a lasting impression on the audience and the performers alike. The support from fans who voted and shared messages of encouragement underscored the power of a strong community behind a young artist. The finale performances continue to be available on The Next Star’s YouTube Channel, allowing fans to revisit the season’s defining moments and celebrate the new talent that emerged from the competition.