Jessica Sanchez, a seasoned performer with roots in both America's Got Talent and American Idol, is making a triumphant return to the AGT stage for Season 20. But this time, there's a twist: she's pregnant! Nineteen years after her initial appearance on AGT at the tender age of 10, and after finishing as runner-up on American Idol in 2012, Sanchez is back, more determined than ever.
Just days after auditioning for the show, Sanchez discovered she was expecting her first child with her husband, Ricky Gallardo, whom she married in 2021. Far from deterring her, the news fueled her ambition. "This year, I just felt this immense peace, like, I’m ready to do this," Sanchez told TV Insider. "If anything, it kind of motivated me a little bit because I’m like, now I get to do this with my daughter. It’s like a once-in-a-lifetime thing."
Sanchez received Sofia Vergara's Golden Buzzer during her audition, securing her spot in the Quarterfinals, which air on September 2nd. Despite the physical challenges that pregnancy can bring, Sanchez feels prepared and surprisingly calm. She says preparing for the live shows has been “going great” and that she’s felt “peaceful,” not stressed. "Even preparing vocally, typically your breathing and stuff gets affected when you’re pregnant, but as far as I’ve been preparing, it hasn’t really been affected tremendously and I’m so thankful for that."
Sanchez is embracing the unique opportunity to perform while pregnant. "Even if my voice does get a little impacted from the pregnancy, I’m excited to challenge myself on that stage," she stated. Her positive attitude and unwavering dedication are sure to make her a formidable competitor.
Sanchez's Journey: From Child Star to Confident Performer
Sanchez's journey in the entertainment industry began at a young age. Her initial stint on AGT in 2006 showcased her talent even at 10 years old. She later gained widespread recognition as the runner-up on Season 11 of American Idol in 2012, losing to Phillip Phillips.
“Throughout the years, I kind of fell out of love of music because I was really young and I was so swayed by what everybody wanted me to be,” Sanchez revealed to Today. But now she feels ready to show the world who she really is. “I know exactly what I want. I’m excited to be back.”
What's Next for Jessica?
All eyes are on Jessica Sanchez as she prepares for her Quarterfinals performance. Will her pregnancy affect her performance? Will she be able to capture the hearts of America once again? Tune in to America's Got Talent on September 2nd to find out!