We’ve got our first American Idol 15 sneak peek of a hopeful! And this one is a tearjerker.
Fifteen year old Tristan performs a beautiful rendition of Mickey Guyton’s (American Idol alum! Top 50 season 7!) “Why Baby Why,” for judges, Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr., before she’s treated to a huge surprise.
After the song, Jlo declares GOOSIES and goes on to say, “I see in you something very very special.” Keith adds, “You’ve got so many things that are all coming together as an artist. And at 15, you have so much talent!”
But then, here comes the big moment. Harry reads a letter to Tristan that’s obviously from a loved one.
“Just wanted to email you and wish you good luck today with your audition. You’ve always called me your big hero, but today you are my big hero because you are doing something that you’ve dreamed about since you were 10 years old,” the letter reads. “Do your best today, and most importantly have fun.”
Tristan becomes tearful, because it’s from her mom, who is overseas with the military. But then…surprise! Mom comes walking through the door for a big emotional reunion. Even Keith sheds a tear. Mom hands Tristan her golden ticket declaring “You’re going to Hollywood!”
Sobbing, Tristan confesses, “It may not seem like it, but I’m really happy!” Aw.
American Idol returns for its fifteenth and final season on Wednesday, January 6.
Watch the emotional clip below.
