The search for the next American Idol continued Monday night, as the final group of hopefuls auditioned before judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood. Ryan Seacrest once again guided the evening, witnessing a range of performances – from heartbreakingly personal stories to confident returns – all vying for a coveted golden ticket to Hollywood. The episode showcased not only vocal talent but also the resilience and determination of aspiring artists, setting the stage for a potentially dramatic Hollywood Week.
Several contestants delivered particularly memorable auditions, earning praise and standing ovations from the judges. Among them was Mor, whose deeply emotional performance resonated with the panel and audience alike, and Mary Jo Young, a returning contestant hoping to redeem herself after a previous stumble. As the judges narrowed down the field, the episode highlighted the power of music to connect, heal, and inspire, solidifying American Idol’s place as a platform for discovering new talent.
A Story of Loss and Resilience: Mor’s Powerful Audition
One of the most impactful moments of the night came from 22-year-old Mor, from Teays Valley, West Virginia. He shared a profoundly personal story, revealing he was raised by his grandmother after losing his biological mother when he was just two years old. Mor bravely explained that his father was responsible for his mother’s death.
Channeling his grief and resilience, Mor performed an original song titled “Strong,” inspired by a recent photograph of his mother. The performance was met with a standing ovation from all three judges. Carrie Underwood remarked, “I feel like you went somewhere else when you were singing — it’s like we weren’t here — in a decent way.” Lionel Richie praised his vocal timbre and songwriting ability, stating his songwriting was his strongest asset. Luke Bryan added, “You got all the tools. You got the look, the style, the hair, the voice.” The emotional moment culminated with Mor’s grandmother joining him on stage as he received his golden ticket to Hollywood.
Second Chance Success: Mary Jo Young Returns to the Stage
Mary Jo Young, a familiar face to American Idol viewers, returned for a second chance after previously competing in Season 19. During her first run, she reached the Top 24 but faltered during Hollywood Week, famously forgetting the lyrics during a duet with Benson Boone on Lauren Daigle’s “You Say.” Footage of that moment was revisited during her introduction package.
Now 24 and hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Mary Jo expressed a newfound confidence, having spent the intervening years touring and opening for artists like Alex Warren and Jessie Murph. She stated she “learned the most from being on the show than I have on any tour.” For her second audition, she performed an original song, “Don’t Call Me.” Carrie Underwood praised her song and vocal tone, noting its “power and personality.” Lionel Richie commented, “It ain’t about singing, it’s about surviving. If you can acquire through that, that’s the key.” Luke Bryan acknowledged her growth, saying, “There is a different air of confidence to you that’s totally new. I’m glad to see your face again because I was a real big fan of you.” Mary Jo secured a golden ticket, earning a second opportunity to pursue her dreams.
Golden Ticket Recipients
The following hopefuls also impressed the judges and earned golden tickets to Hollywood:
- Abayomi, 15, San Francisco, auditioned with “Black Leaves” by Kirby
- Bartly, 23, Austin, Texas, auditioned with “Texas Sun” by Khruangbin & Leon Bridges
- Brenna Brigman, 18, Arlington, Texas, auditioned with “Fallin'” by Alicia Keys and “My Church” by Maren Morris
- Bella Emry, 22, Bend, Ore., auditioned with “I’m a Little Crazy” by Morgan Wallen
- Jason Garner, 17, Emory, Texas, auditioned with “On My Knees” by The Red Clay Strays
- Landon Hughes, 19, Hazard, Ky., auditioned with “Little Maggie” by The Stanley Brothers
- Chloe Lauren, 25, Warrenville, S.C., auditioned with “Maybe” by Sienna Spiro
- Landon McGraw, 18, Wheelersburg, Ohio, auditioned with N/A
- Rae, 24, Frederick, Md., auditioned with “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin
- Matty Reynolds, 23, Pelham, N.Y., auditioned with “Undressed” by Sombr
- Julia Sienna, 20, Freehold, N.J., auditioned with “I Would” by Connie Talbot
- Jake Thistle, 21, Paramus, N.J., auditioned with “Can’t Uncover My Way Home” by Blind Faith
- Chris Tungseth, 27, Fergus Falls, Minn., auditioned with “Lonely Road” (original)
- Vika, 22, Spokane, Wash., auditioned with N/A
What’s Next: Hollywood Week in Nashville
American Idol is shaking up its format, bringing Hollywood Week to Music City for the first time. Hopefuls will perform in Nashville, facing what is described as the “biggest Hollywood Week cut in Idol history.” The competition is intensifying as the remaining contestants prepare for the next stage of the journey, promising high stakes and dramatic moments.
What did you think of this week’s auditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!