‘AGT’ COMEBACK

Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez has made a triumphant return to the “America’s Got Talent” stage, earning a coveted Golden Buzzer from judge Sofia Vergara for her powerful audition. The moment marks a significant milestone in Sanchez’s career, nearly two decades after her first appearance on the show.

Sanchez captivated the judges and audience with her rendition of Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things.” Her performance garnered a standing ovation, with judges praising her “angelic voice” and “wonderful performance.” Howie Mandel commented, “20 years is a long time, but well worth the wait. I’ll tell you something, I love that song and you made this song your own. And you blew the roof off the place, you are so wonderful.” Former Spice Girl Mel B added, “You’ve got a voice of a bloody angel. I’m lost for words.”

It was Sofia Vergara who ultimately pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending Sanchez directly to the live shows. Vergara highlighted the special nature of the moment, noting, “I think there is something very special that happened on the stage with you. It’s so amazing that we’re on the 20th anniversary. You’re here again after 20 years, you’re pregnant…You’re so ready to do all this and I really don’t really understand what happened in these 20 years, but I guess they were meant to be because this was a special moment. And I think that you deserve this.”

Sanchez, now 29, also revealed her pregnancy on the AGT stage, adding a personal touch to her comeback. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “Throughout the years, I kind of fell out of love with music because I was really young and I was so swayed by what everybody wanted me to be… Maybe it took me 20 years, but I know exactly who I am, I know exactly what I want. I’m excited to be back.”

This isn’t Sanchez’s first rodeo in reality talent competitions. At just 11 years old, she first appeared on AGT Season One, reaching the semi-finals. Six years later, in 2012, she gained widespread recognition as the runner-up in “American Idol Season 11,” showcasing her vocal prowess with memorable performances. After “American Idol,” she pursued a solo career, releasing her debut album “Me, You & The Music” in 2013, featuring the lead single “Tonight” with Ne-Yo.

She also held a solo concert in Manila that same year and has since released various singles and Christmas compilations, including collaborations with Filipino singer Christian Bautista and a song for Miss Universe Philippines 2020. Her career also saw her guest-starring in two episodes of the American series “Glee” Season Four as Frida Romero.

Backstage, Simon Cowell congratulated Sanchez, calling her “an absolute star,” affirming her talent and determination after years of pursuing her passion.