Jesse Findling auditioned for American Idol on the season premiere that aired on Jan. 26 and stunned the judges by revealing he grew up with a stutter. The 19-year–old sang Benson Boone’s “In the Stars,” earning a standing ovation and a golden ticket to Hollywood week. His story highlights how singing can serve as a powerful outlet for those facing communication challenges.
At a Glance
- Jesse Findling shares his stutter journey during the audition.
- The 19-year–old impresses all three judges, receiving a standing ovation.
- American Idol episodes air every Monday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
- Why it matters: It shows that talent and authenticity can triumph over adversity.
The Audition Performance
The clip began with Jesse stepping onto the stage, his voice steady as he launched into “In the Stars.” He emphasized that singing is where he feels most free: “Singing has always felt freeing for me because when I sing I don’t stutter.” The performance was raw and emotional, resonating with both the audience and the judges.
Revealing the Stutter
During the audition, Jesse opened up about his lifelong stutter: “I’ve had a stutter ever since I was little and it’s something that I’ve struggled with since elementary school. It was something embarrassing for me and it’s something that I had a really hard time with.” He explained how the stutter made him feel alone but also how music became his sanctuary.
Judges’ Reactions
The judges-Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan-reacted with genuine admiration:
- Luke Bryan: “I don’t think I blinked one time. I mean, wow, you’re a real singer. Man I’m really proud of you.”
- Carrie Underwood: “You were in the song emotionally. You just took us right there with you. It was beautiful.”
- Lionel Richie: “Problem? What problem? You don’t have a problem. The only thing wrong with you is you have to figure out how you’re going to navigate this career.”
All three judges immediately pressed their “yes” buttons, sending Jesse a golden ticket to the next round.
The Impact of the Moment
Jesse reflected on the significance of the audition: “Walking out with a golden ticket would mean that everything that I’ve struggled with in the past, it all led me here and I can do whatever I want if I work hard.” He added that his stutter no longer holds him back and that he can now pursue his dreams.
What’s Next for Jesse
The next phase, Hollywood week, will test Jesse’s resilience and vocal versatility. If he continues to impress, he could become a fan favorite in the competition. Fans can follow his journey on the official American Idol social media channels and tune in each Monday.
Show Details
American Idol episodes will air every Monday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. The season premiered on Jan. 26, and viewers can expect a mix of new talent and familiar faces in the coming weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Authenticity can win over judges and audiences alike.
- Overcoming personal challenges can fuel artistic growth.
- The competition remains open to diverse voices, proving that talent transcends obstacles.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds and Jesse Findling continues his path toward stardom.
