'American Idol' Season 18: Makayla Brownlee didn't let a fainting spell stop her from acing her Hollywood solo
The latest episode of 'American Idol' was telecast on Monday night, March 23, and this time viewers got to see the Hollywood Solo round. Having made the cut during the duets portion of Hollywood week, the solo round was expected to be Makayla Brownlee's moment to shine.
The talented 17-year-old from Wellington, Kansas had wowed viewers at her audition, where she warbled and yodeled her way through a classic Americana rendition of 'Travelin' Soldier' by The Dixie Chicks. So a lot was riding on the talented youngster's shoulders already in the run-up to the stressful Hollywood Week, but she had already shown she was pretty fearless - her hobby of snake hunting while camping in her hometown would have made most Americans shudder and go weak in the knees, but that was merely all in a night's work for the brave teenager.
So it came as a shock when Makayla abruptly turned and exited the stage, right as her song's intro music had already begun. At first, it seemed like Makayla was about to throw up offstage given her reaction, but when she then collapsed in the wings, it was a cause for grave concern. In one of the more surreal, jaw-dropping moments in 'American Idol' history, medical professionals had to step in and stabilize Makayla and make sure that she was not in any danger. It was later revealed by her father Mark that she suffered from a rare condition called vasovagal syncope, which can cause your heart rate and blood pressure to drop dramatically, due to certain triggers such as stress or anxiety. Everyone was concerned for her well-being, but to Makayla's credit, she felt well enough to return a few hours later and revisit her previously aborted musical performance. Even more encouraging was the fact that she confidently walked back on that Hollywood stage while smiling, feeling 100 percent physically fit and ready to take on the challenge that would have made most amateur singers balk.
Singing Kacey Musgraves' classic hit 'Rainbow' while remaining seated, Makayla's courageous and heartfelt performance in the face of the overwhelming events of the night really struck a chord with the viewers. Her lovely, clear tone, throaty trills and serenity both impressed and endeared her to the judges.
Katy Perry, in particular, was really emotional following her performance and needed a moment to collect herself. Needless to say, after that display of fierce sincerity and passion, Makayla made it through to the next round of the competition, which will take place in Aulani, Hawaii.
Her fans were really impressed and wished her all the best on social media. "Love and support to Makayla Brownlee. I have vasovagal syncope too and I had my first episode when I was 17. I understand what you go through and you are not alone. I hope you get the chance to make your dreams come true," said one supportive viewer.
Other fans were thrilled that she managed to pull off that performance with such professionalism. "A lovely and easy performance. No unnecessary reaching or showing off. I really appreciated that," exclaimed another admirer.
Let's wish Makayla the very best of health and hope she's ready to take on the competition's grueling rounds up ahead. You can catch more episodes of 'American Idol' on Sunday and Monday nights at 8 pm ET on the ABC network.