From Backroads to Bright Lights: The Untold Story of John Foster’s Rise to Idol Fame Through His Family’s Eyes

Every Monday in Addis, Louisiana, the lunch special at Benoit’s Country Meat Block is meatloaf with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, and dessert — all for $10.99. But lately, there’s something else on the menu: a big helping of local pride.

That’s because the boy who grew up behind the counter is now dazzling millions on national television. “American Idol” finalist John Foster — or as locals know him, John Foster Benoit — is putting this tiny Cajun town on the map, one soulful note at a time.

The Meat Block, a beloved family-run store just a stone’s throw from the Mississippi River, is owned by John’s grandparents, whose roots run deep in Church Point and Lawtell. Their shelves are stacked with true Louisiana flavor — from boudin and hot tamales to hog head cheese and alligator. And yes, John’s favorite? The beef jerky.

When he showed up for his Idol audition in Nashville, he brought more than talent. He brought boudin, seasoning, and jerky — a full care package from home. That same seasoning, his grandma proudly reports, ended up on Luke Bryan’s fingers — “He couldn’t stop licking them.”

At 75, Verbie Benoit never imagined her grandson would go from singing in church to the top ten of “American Idol.” But she always believed he was meant for something big.

“He had that spark early,” she said. “At four years old, we knew he was different.”

Now, she’s packed her suitcase — and her rosary — and is heading to Hollywood with 31 family members to cheer him on. But don’t mistake her excitement for blind ambition.

“I pray for him,” she said, “not necessarily to win, but for God to be with him.”

Even amid the fame, Foster remains grounded. A co-valedictorian of his high school class, he’s still pursuing a biology degree online at LSU. His dream? To become an oncologist. His grandmother says, with confidence, “He’s got a good head on his shoulders. He’s just that kind of kid.”

And behind the meat counter in Addis, his unofficial fan club is going strong.

Rick Bourgoyne, who’s worked at Benoit’s since 1988, wants everyone to know: John Foster is more than a stage name. “He’s a Benoit. His full name is John Foster Benoit — just like his daddy and grandfather. He’s the third.”

Longtime coworkers Blake Sarradet and Regina DeBenedetto have watched him grow, perform, and shine. “He listens. He learns. He brings it every time,” Regina said, after casting 30 votes for him last Monday.

No matter what happens next — stardom or med school — everyone at Benoit’s knows one thing: John Foster Benoit will always be theirs.

He’s got the voice, the brains, and the heart — all seasoned with a little Cajun spice and a whole lot of soul.