‘American Idol’ Releases Platinum Ticket Audition Early

American Idol is back this Sunday! With another episode on the rise, the show decided to release an audition early for super fans. This week’s early release video features singer Filo. Those who tuned into ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Years’ Rockin’ Eve knows that Filo was given a Platinum ticket.

Platinum Ticket American Idol Audition Releases Early

On Thursday, American Idol shared Filo’s audition on their official YouTube channel. In the video, Filo performs “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding. Judges, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood are jaw-dropped over his tonality.

Following the audition, Richie admitted they’ve been waiting for a singer like Filo. Although the clip doesn’t feature it, judges are aware that Filo is currently on the path to become a doctor at the moment. The judges are seen instead telling Filo to pursue music.

Before giving an official “yes” or “no,” Bryan admitted that he could see Filo in the Top 20, or even the Top 10. Richie, at the same time, admitted that he’s grateful the universe directed Filo to the show. The early release clip ends with the judges announcing that the singer is going to Hollywood.

The Singer Was Given a Platinum Ticket

Unlike other early release auditions, fans are aware that Filo will be continuing on in the series. During ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Years’ Rockin Eve, American Idol host Ryan Seacrest and judge Carrie Underwood presented a platinum ticket to Filo.

During the celebration, Seacrest introduced Underwood as the newest judge of the American Idol judging panel. Then, Seacrest introduced Filo to America, calling the singer an “incredible hopeful.”

“Filo, this guy is so good, I cannot wait for you guys to hear him, he’s amazing!” Underwood said on the show.

“Thank you so much. Man, meeting you already and Ryan and Lioniel and Luke, it’s been the experience of a lifetime, I’m speechless right now,” Filo said.

The stage then went to Seacrest, who explained the Platinum Ticket, saying that each season the judges are able to upgrade a Golden Ticket to a Platinum Ticket. For those who may not know, the Platinum Ticket allows singers to skip the first round of Hollywood week.

Live on air, Seacrest and Underwood presented the Platinum Ticket to Filo. Filo was seen getting emotional over the ticket. According to the singer, live on air, he had no idea he was going to earn the Platinum Ticket at the event.

American Idol returns to ABC on Sunday, March 16 for the second set of Season 23 auditions. Be sure to tune into the show so you don’t miss any information on your favorite auditioners.