American Idol is set to return to ABC in less than a week. As a sneak peek to the upcoming season, the show released the audition of singer Jesse Findling. Take a first look at the show’s Season 24 now!
American Idol Releases First NEW Audition of 2026
On Tuesday, January 20, American Idolshared the official first audition of the season. The sneak peek clip, which has a runtime of six minutes and five seconds features singer Jesse Findling appearing in front of judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood.
The 19 year old college student presented himself explaining that he grew up with a stutter which helped him discover his love of music. Although the singer comfortably discussed his stutter in the clip, he explained “it’s something I’ve struggled with since elementary school.”
While his stutter made him feel alone he discovered his love of music. Early on, he discovered that he doesn’t stutter while he sings, so he used it as a way to express himself.
“Walking out with a Golden Ticket would mean that everything I’ve struggled with in the past,” he said. “lt’s all led me here, and I can do whatever I want if I work hard.”
Finally, Jesse admitted that he wanted to be an example for his younger brother, who also has a stutter. He wants his brother to know that the stutter will not hold him back from anything.
Judges Unanimously Vote Jesse Through to Hollywood Week
After sharing his story with the audience, Jesse shared that he picked “In The Stars” by Benson Boone as his audition song. Then, Jesse went on to perform an amazing rendition of the tune.
Following the song, all three judges stood up, in awe of his performance. Immediately, Bryan admitted that he loves “this show because we get to meet kids like you.”
Underwood followed up, commenting on his beautiful vibrato, and tone. She also noted Jesse was “in the song emotionally, which took us right there with you.”
In reaction to Jesse saying his stutter is a problem, Richie acknowledged the “Only problem with you is you got to figure out how you’re going to navigate this career.”
Jesse’s family then came into the room to hear the judges’ votes. Together, they unanimously voted to send Jesse through to Hollywood Week. American Idol premieres Season 24 on Monday, August 26 at 8PM ET. Fans will be able to watch this show on either ABC or next day on streaming.
Words by:
Corey Cesare Corey Cesare is Talent Recap's Managing Editor and featured YouTube Host. She has a love of all things pop culture and an unhealthy obsession with celebrities. Corey earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Cinema/Screen Studies from the State University of New York at Oswego in 2021. She spends her spare time shooting astro, nature, and portrait photography, and coming up with movie ideas that she hopes to make into a film someday.
