Massapequa’s Jessie Findling Earns Standing Ovation from American Idol Judges

Avery K. Bristow

Published: January 25, 2026 5:15 PM ET

Massapequa’s Jessie Findling Earns Standing Ovation from American Idol Judges

Massapequa’s Jessie Findling recently left a lasting impression on the judges of American Idol. The 19-year-old received a standing ovation from Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan during his audition. Findling’s heartfelt rendition of “In the Stars” by Benson Boone not only captivated the judges but also earned him a coveted Golden Ticket to Hollywood Week.

Jessie Findling’s Journey

This moment marked a significant milestone in Findling’s life. He has lived with a stutter since elementary school, which made speaking in class a daunting experience. “It was embarrassing for me. I wouldn’t raise my hand in school, and it made me feel alone,” Findling shared.

A Passion for Singing

Despite these challenges, Findling discovered a passion for singing. He found that his stutter disappeared when he performed. “I would sing in the shower and everywhere else,” he recalled, smiling. He often sang with his brother and sister as they participated in various choir groups.

Stepping into the Spotlight

Although he never took formal vocal lessons, Findling eventually honed his sound. He began sharing his music on social media, which led to an unexpected opportunity. Last May, an American Idol producer noticed his talent online and invited him to audition over Zoom.

This opportunity culminated in a trip to Nashville, where Findling performed live for the iconic judges. “I know I did a song justice when I enter the zone and almost black out,” he said, reflecting on the experience of his audition.

Judges’ Praise and Future Aspirations

The judge’s feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “Problem? What problem? You don’t have a problem,” Richie told Findling, encouraging him to navigate his music career effectively. Findling looks to emulate the success of his musical inspirations, including Shawn Mendes, Harry Styles, and Ed Sheeran.

Upcoming American Idol Season

Jessie Findling’s audition will be featured in the new season of American Idol, premiering on January 26th at 8 p.m. on ABC and Hulu. This season promises to showcase a new wave of talent, with Findling taking his first steps toward a possible career in music.