Golden Comeback: Jessica Sanchez shines on ‘America’s Got Talent’
Metro Manila, Philippines - It was a night to remember for Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez, who received the golden buzzer from judge Sofia Vergara on the latest episode of “America’s Got Talent” (AGT) after delivering a powerful performance of “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone.
The performance marked a career milestone and a deeply personal moment, as Sanchez also revealed that she is married and expecting her first child.
“I found my lane, I’m married now, and… I recently found out that I’m pregnant,” the 29-year-old singer shared on stage, drawing cheers from the audience.
Her return to AGT was especially meaningful, coming as it was two decades after she first appeared on the show’s debut season as a young hopeful who reached the semifinals.
“I was actually on the very first season of America’s Got Talent,” Sanchez told the judges.
“I kind of fell out of love with music for a while. I was really young and easily swayed by what everyone else wanted me to be. But now, I know who I am and what I want. I’m excited to be back,” she added.
Sanchez’s heartfelt story and powerful vocals earned her a standing ovation from all four judges — Vergara, Simon Cowell, Mel B, and Howie Mandel.
“You’ve got the voice of a bloody angel,” Mel B said, visibly emotional.
“Twenty years is a long time, but well worth the wait,” Mandel added. “You made that song your own and blew the roof off the place.”
Cowell praised the connection she made with the audience: “I think the people that matter — the people behind us — they like you.”
Before hitting the golden buzzer, Vergara shared her admiration for Sanchez’s journey:
“It’s so amazing that we’re in the 20th anniversary season of AGT, and you’re here again after 20 years. You’re pregnant, you’re beautiful, and you’re so ready. This was a special moment, and you deserve this,” she said.
Jessica Sanchez first rose to prominence in 2012, when she finished as runner-up on Season 11 of American Idol at just 16 years old.