Nearly twenty years after her debut in Season 1, teenage sensation Jessica Sanchez returned during Season 20’s Episode 7 on July 15, 2025, now as a confident, 29‑year‑old woman. Initially eliminated as a wildcard after singing Celine Dion’s “I Surrender” in 2006, she came back with a renewed passion and identity.
This time, she performed “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone, delivered with incredible maturity and emotional depth. Her performance earned her a standing ovation and the coveted Golden Buzzer from Sofia Vergara, instantly advancing her to the live shows.
Judges were visibly moved:
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Simon Cowell quipped, “I think they like you!”
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Howie Mandel said, “Twenty years is a long time, but well worth the wait.”
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Mel B called her “the voice of a bloody angel”.
In the audition, Jessica reflected on her past struggles after starting as a child star. She explained how she had lost her love for music by chasing others’ expectations. But now, she said, “It may have taken me 20 years, but I finally know who I am and what I want. I’m excited to be back.”
It was also a deeply personal moment: she revealed on stage that she has been married to Rickie Gallardo since 2021 and is expecting her first child, a pregnancy she had kept private for about five months.
Sofia Vergara spoke to the symbolism of the moment, noting how special it was that Jessica returned during the show’s 20th season, exactly 20 years after her first appearance, and now pregnant and radiant. She declared it “a very special moment” before pressing the Golden Buzzer.
🌟 The Comeback in Brief:
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2006: Season 1 wildcard at age ~10, sang “I Surrender,” reached semifinals.
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2025: Returns in Season 20 at age 29, delivers a powerful performance of “Beautiful Things,” receives Golden Buzzer.
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Personal update: Married since 2021 and expecting first child, shared on stage.
Jessica Sanchez’s return wasn’t just a musical comeback—it was a rebirth of her artistry, aligned with personal growth and life milestones. It was truly a full-circle moment, as judges and audiences alike recognized not only her transformed voice but the woman she has become.
