'American Idol' Season 18 Episode 5: Meet Amber Fiedler, the 9-month pregnant singer who had fans bawling
'American Idol' Season 18 returned on Sunday night for an all-new episode and it couldn't have found a better contestant to end its auditions. Amber Fiedler, who hails from Coeur d'Alene in Idaho, sang for two and it couldn't be more emotional.
The series aired with the last of its audition rounds on Sunday night. While we witnessed a whole bunch of talented contestants knock the judges off their seats, there were some who impressed the judges even more. Among these few was Amber.
Amber is 23 years old and is currently 9 months pregnant. Amber revealed she had a tough childhood because her mother was a drug addict. Her grandmother was the one who raised her. But over the last few years, Amber got into drinking and this eventually led to her pregnancy.
"It was definitely hard growing up. My mom was a user most of my life, and so my grandma was the one who raised me. Last few years, I was going out and drinking a bunch, and I was getting caught up in life. With this pregnancy, I have learned who I was as a person. Looking at the big picture of life…There are days I don’t even have $20 in my pocket. If I am not ready to be a mom, why would I put her through that, you know?" Amber said.
Amber revealed that she was going to put her daughter up for open adoption so that she could stay in touch with her. She also added that her mother has been sober for four years now.
As for her performance, her rendition of 'Trust in Me' by Etta James left the judges spellbound. Her elegant voice nailed the performance. After her performance Luke Bryan said, "And THAT was with a foot in her rib!" Adding to that Katy Perry said, "We are here to support you through this process."
Amber received three yeses and is now headed to Hollywood. Post her performance, fans took to Twitter to share how much they loved her voice and how her story moved them.
"Amber’s story aside, her voice and the song made me BAWL like a... well, a baby! I hope she can make it all the way," a fan wrote. Adding to that another wrote, "Was not expecting this adoption promo on #AmericanIdol but was so honest and pure. Parents, put your kids first, that's what matters. Good luck Amber!"
"Amber your story is amazing! And your voice is even better!! Congratulations for making it to Hollywood week! Bring it all you got, you're amazing! Ending it with a great performer!" a fan shared.
Another said, "Ending it with the best in my opinion, Amber your performance is magical. You're singing sounded effortless and singing is definitely meant for you."
We can't wait to see where Amber's journey on American Idol takes her.
'American Idol' Season 18 airs every Sunday and Monday night only on ABC. Check your local listings for more information.