Who is Julia Gagnon? 'American Idol' Season 22 contestant was inspired by birth mother's belief in her
CUMBERLAND, MAINE: Julia Gagnon, a contestant on 'American Idol' Season 22, hails from Maine, where she was raised with a northern redneck upbringing. Despite her roots in Maine, Julia was born in the picturesque country of Guatemala. Presently, she is engaged to her long-time partner Nate Haven.
''American Idol' promos featuring Julia Gagnon have recently aired on social media and television. In the 45-second promo on YouTube, Lionel Richie expresses to Julia that her journey to 'American Idol' stood out to him. He mentioned, "It was the most unsuspecting person you would ever think." Since then, the singer has received overwhelmingly positive responses from social media.
Julia Gagnon disclosed in an interview that during her episode, viewers will learn whether the three judges will grant her a Golden Ticket. This coveted pass serves as her ticket to advance to Hollywood for the competition, where she will join approximately 150 other contestants vying for the prestigious 'American Idol' title. From these contestants, the judges will select 24 finalists who will then be flown to Hawaii for televised performances judged by viewers.
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Julia Gagnon was raised in Maine by adoptive parents who discovered her talent
Julia's journey commenced in Guatemala and unfolded in Maine, where she was nurtured by her supportive adoptive parents. Despite her early shyness and inclination to avoid the spotlight, Julia's passion for singing began to flourish during her high school years. Her adoptive parents encouraged her to pursue her dreams and were always there to cheer for her at every Central Maine Idol event, where Julia would showcase her talent among other gifted artists from Maine.
Season 3 of Central Maine Idol proved to be a pivotal moment for Julia. At the age of 21, she clinched victory in the third annual competition, earning the coveted $10,000 prize. During the gripping finale featuring three singers, Julia captivated the audience with her performances of three songs: "Stand Up" by Cynthia Erivo, "Can't Hold Us" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, and "Show Yourself" by Idina Menzel and Evan Rachel Wood.
Not only did she emerge victorious, but this is how she also discovered her profound love for music and performance which eventually sparked her transformative journey.
'American Idol' Season 22 contestant Julia Gagnon was involved in music and drama at North Yarmouth Academy
Julia Gagnon obtained a degree in history from Skidmore College ahead of schedule and has plans to further her education by attending law school at USM.
Her musical talent initially surfaced during her time at NYA. Nora Krainis, Julia's chorus and theater director, recollects how Julia was reserved musically until the end of fifth grade when she finally shared her incredible voice during a talent show on a class overnight schooner trip. Shannon Gallagher, Julia's fifth-grade teacher, remembers the impact of hearing Julia sing on that occasion, describing it as an amazing revelation.
Throughout her time at NYA, Julia was actively involved in music and drama, showcasing her gift for interpreting songs and captivating audiences with her performances. This talent was recognized and celebrated when she won the Central Maine Idol contest last August, earning both the title and a $10,000 prize. This achievement marked the beginning of her journey towards American Idol.
Julia Gagnon signed up for ‘American Idol’ because of the encouragement from her birth mother
During her audition on 'American Idol', Julia Gagnon bravely shared the harsh reality of her birth mother's struggles, recounting a dangerous fall that resulted in her birth mother sustaining broken bones. She explained that due to inadequate healthcare in Guatemala, her birth mother's condition has worsened.
Despite these challenges, Julia shared that her birth mother's belief in her inspired her to pursue something bigger. When Katy Perry asked how she made her way to Maine, Julia explained that she was adopted, but her birth mother's accident motivated her to sign up and audition for 'American Idol'.
Katy Perry responded positively, encouraging Julia to "go big." During her audition, Julia performed Aretha Franklin’s “Ain’t No Way,” receiving a standing ovation from the judges. Luke Bryan praised her amazing performance, while Lionel Richie described it as outstanding and expressed his happiness that she auditioned for the show.
You can catch new episodes of 'American Idol' Season 22 every Sunday at 8 pm ET on ABC. The latest episodes will be available to stream the next day on Hulu.