'My Kind of Country' winner announced by Apple TV+

Micaela Kleinsmith

"My Kind of Country" was ordered by Apple back in 2020, but its eight episodes only debuted in March 2023. Now as the last episode is released, Apple has announced the winner and what she will receive for having won this first season.

"I was so honored and excited to have been selected as the winner of 'My Kind of Country,'" said Kleinsmith in a statement. "This competition has been such a blessing and I'm just so grateful to have been able to learn from so many other talented artists on a global platform like Apple TV+."

"'My Kind of Country' gave me an opportunity that wouldn't normally have been available to me in the industry, and highlights the need for country music to open its doors to new talent and new ideas," she continued. "Thank you to Jimmie Allen, Mickey Guyton, Orville Peck, Reese Witherspoon and Kacey Musgraves for giving me this chance. I can't wait for fans to check out my new EP 'Butterfly' on Apple Music."

The series is a reality show competition, but with a global reach and a focus on different forms of country music. Music scouts Jimmie Allen, Mickey Guyton and Orville Peck, chose artists to take part in the Nashville-based series.

"We were all moved by Micaela's final performances and to be able to witnesses her growth throughout the competition has made me so proud of my fellow South African!" said Peck. "Jimmie Allen, Mickey Guyton and I all believe she is ready to be our next country music star."

Micaela Kleinsmith will now receive what Apple calls a "life-changing experience," consisting of "global exposure across the Apple TV+ and Apple Music platforms."

Selected tracks from the series are now available to stream on Apple Music.