Full Breakdown
Jessica Sanchez Returns to America's Got Talent While Pregnant
9/3/2025, 1:18:23 PM
Jessica Sanchez's Comeback Performance
Jessica Sanchez, a former contestant from the inaugural season of "America's Got Talent" (AGT), made a notable return to the stage on September 2, 2025, during the quarterfinals of Season 20. Now 29 years old and eight months pregnant, Sanchez performed a powerful rendition of Alex Warren's song "Ordinary." Despite concerns about her health and the challenges of performing while pregnant, Sanchez expressed her determination to showcase her talent. Judge Simon Cowell acknowledged her bravery, stating, “I heard that she wasn't feeling too good... it’s your choice whether you want to do this or not,” to which Sanchez replied, “No, I want to do this.”
Judges' Reactions
The judges responded positively to Sanchez's performance. Cowell praised her tone and presence, saying, “You have such an amazing tone... a glow about you.” Mel B also commended her, stating, “You have never sounded better!” Howie Mandel lightened the mood with a joke about her pregnancy, saying, “When you hit those big notes, I was worried that this production was going to turn into a reproduction.” Sofia Vergara, who had previously awarded Sanchez a Golden Buzzer during her audition, reiterated her support, exclaiming, “America is loving you! And you are the best!”
Background and Context
Sanchez first gained recognition on AGT at the age of 10, where she reached the semifinals. She later became the runner-up on Season 11 of "American Idol" in 2012. After a period of stepping back from music, Sanchez returned to AGT, motivated by her pregnancy and the desire to share this unique experience with her unborn child. She remarked, “If anything, it kind of motivated me a little bit because I’m like, now I get to do this with my daughter.”
Official Statements & Responses
Sanchez shared her thoughts on performing while pregnant, stating, “I take pride in what I do on stage, and I didn't want to let my big belly affect that.” She emphasized the significance of her performance, saying, “It means everything.” Sanchez also expressed her gratitude for the support she received from the judges and the audience, highlighting the emotional weight of returning to the AGT stage after so many years.
What's Next for Sanchez and AGT
As the quarterfinals continue, Sanchez's performance will be pivotal in determining her advancement in the competition. Online voting for the acts is open until September 3, 2025, with results set to be revealed later that evening. The outcome will depend on the audience's votes, as they hold the power to decide which contestants move forward in the competition.
Verbatim Quotes
- “because a few seconds ago, before Jessica came out, I heard that she wasn't feeling too good. And I said, 'Look, honestly, genuinely, it's your choice whether you want to do this or not.'” — Simon Cowell, Judge
- “I'm so happy you did because you have such an amazing tone, such an amazing [glow] about you.” — Simon Cowell, Judge
- “You have never sounded better!” — Mel B, Judge
- “America is loving you! And you are the best!” — Sofia Vergara, Judge
- “It means everything. I take pride in what I do on stage, and I didn't want to let my big belly affect that.” — Jessica Sanchez, Contestant
Jessica Sanchez's return to AGT not only showcases her vocal talent but also highlights her resilience and commitment to her craft, even in the face of personal challenges.
