Hardy's music teacher Tim Richardson told the Advocate, "We're incredibly proud. He deserved it. He's such a talented young man and he's such a good young man."
As Hardy's star power on the show rose, he was honored during a quick trip home with a parade and declaration by Governor John Bel Edwards of "Laine Hardy Day" in the state.
Last night, residents of Livingston gathered in a park to watch the three hour event live. Friends and family cheered as he sang the Hank Williams classic "Jambalaya (On the Bayou)".
Louisiana has fielded two previous contestants on American Idol. He's the first native to take it all.