Jessica Sanchez has now officially secured her title as a champion of America’s Got Talent, a victory nearly 20 years in the making.
Two decades after her first audition in front of America on NBC’s beloved competition series, Sanchez was declared the winner of season 20.
“Reflecting on my journey, I started at just 10 years old on AGT. Now, here I stand two decades later, having endured not only high highs but also some low lows,” Sanchez, now 30, conveyed to Us Weekly following the semifinals on September 16. “It wasn’t always easy, but my faith in myself never wavered, and here I am—more grateful than ever. You have to keep believing!”
Impressively, her season 20 audition, where she delivered an emotional performance of Benson Boone’s hit single, “Beautiful Things”, captivated judges Simon Cowell, Mel B, and Howie Mandel.
Sofía Vergara, clearly impressed, exercised her Golden Buzzer in support of Sanchez to ensure she advanced through the competition.
Claiming victory on finale night, Sanchez not only gained the title but also a $1 million prize to help her realize her musical aspirations.
“There’s so much talent out there,” she said to Us when asked about her future collaborations. “The future holds many surprises, and I’m here for it.”
To delve deeper into the riveting story of the newly crowned America’s Got Talent champion, keep reading:
Jessica Sanchez Competed on ‘AGT’ While Pregnant
Unprecedented circumstances surrounded Sanchez as she competed, uncertain whether her baby girl would arrive before finale week.
“Honestly, who knows?” she explained to Us after the semifinals about the prospect of becoming a mother mid-competition. “She’s going to come when she’s ready, and I’m in the final stretch of this journey.”
While balancing rehearsals, she managed to partake in a maternity shoot and reflect fondly on her pregnancy experience.
“Spending these last weeks of pregnancy in the midst of such an exhilarating competition is something I never imagined,” she shared on Instagram on September 14. “Life has a way of surprising us, and this journey has been nothing short of beautiful.”
Jessica Sanchez Previously Competed on ‘American Idol’
In 2012, Sanchez showcased her talents on season 11 of American Idol, where she was critiqued by the panel of Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, and Randy Jackson.
Though she finished as the runner-up to Phillip Phillips, Sanchez harbored no regrets about her experience. “Phillip deserved to win. I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve achieved,” she expressed during a post-finale press conference.
Jessica Sanchez Is Married to Rickie Gallardo
In an interview with TV Insider, Sanchez praised her husband as her steadfast pillar of support in her music career. “He is my rock, along with my faith. I trust that God has magnificent plans for my life,” she stated in September.
In July, Gallardo publicly celebrated his wife’s pregnancy on Instagram, marveling at her resilience. “Witnessing you nurture our child while continuing to pour your heart into your performances is awe-inspiring. You’re powerful, and I’m grateful to share life with you.”
Jessica Sanchez Auditioned for ‘AGT’ as a Kid
During season 1 of America’s Got Talent, Sanchez made her first attempt at stardom at just 10 years old. Despite being eliminated prior to the semifinals, she remained undeterred in pursuing her musical aspirations.
“This dream truly took flight 20 years ago. I was eager for this chance to reignite my pursuit,” Sanchez remarked in a poignant clip during the season 20 finale. “I wish I could tell my 10-year-old self, ‘Look at where we are now!’”
Jessica Sanchez Appeared on ‘Glee’
In 2013, Sanchez had the distinct opportunity to guest star on the acclaimed Fox musical series, Glee. “I’ve been investing time to prepare for this moment through acting lessons. While I don’t watch it as often as I’d like, I’ve always loved the show and its remarkable production,” Sanchez shared in a November 2012 interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
