Fil-Am singer Mikaela Bautista earns golden ticket on ‘American Idol’
Mikaela Bautista earns a coveted golden ticket on American Idol Season 23. Photo from mikaelaabautista/Instagram
A new Filipino American singer is trying her luck in an American singing competition. But, it was a rollercoaster of emotions.
Filipino American singer Mikaela Bautista is on her way to Hollywood Week after earning a coveted golden ticket on American Idol Season 23.
During her Los Angeles audition, Bautista delivered a powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s “Saving All My Love for You” that impressed judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. However, her performance initially failed to win over new judge and country superstar Carrie Underwood.
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Underwood further expressed her reservations about the Fil-Am songstress’ delivery. “I wanted to feel more emotion and connection,” she remarked, explaining her decision to vote “no.”
Despite the setback, the two “yes” votes from Bryan and Richie were enough to push her through to the next round.
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However, the night took an unexpected turn when Bautista’s father joined her on stage for a spontaneous duet of “The Prayer.” Their heartfelt performance resonated deeply with the judges – and even changed Underwood’s mind.
Moved by their emotional harmony, Underwood reversed her earlier decision. “Can I change my judgment? I would like to strike my previous [no]. You have three yesses,” she declared, sealing Bautista’s Hollywood-bound fate.
Following the audition, the singer took to Instagram to share her excitement. “Still in shock! I just got the golden ticket to Hollywood! [This is] such an incredible honor!” she wrote, thanking the judges for believing in her potential.
In another post, she shared, “And the journey begins! Beyond thrilled to share this adventure with you all. Don’t miss a beat – keep tuning in to @AmericanIdol on ABC and witness our Hollywood dreams unfold!”
Fans can catch more of Mikaela’s journey on American Idol Season 23, which airs Sundays on ABC and streams on Hulu the following day.
With her golden ticket in hand, the Fil-Am hopeful is ready to take on Hollywood Week, where she will continue to showcase her vocal prowess and fight for a spot in the competition’s next stage.
