‘American Idol’: Who is Mary Jo Young? Benson Boone’s duet partner returns 5 years after top 24 elimination
ABC's 'American Idol' Season 24 is back, and one contestant is already stealing hearts. The latest episode brought back Mary Jo, a contestant from Season 19 who was eliminated after reaching the Top 24. This time, Jo came fully prepared and not only impressed the judges but also sang a self-composed song, making for a wholesome 'American Idol' moment.
As soon as Jo entered the audition room, she immediately caught the attention of judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, who recognised her from her previous appearance in Season 19. During that season, the 24-year-old impressed the judges in her audition, earning three enthusiastic yeses from Richie, Bryan, and Katy Perry. However, her journey hit a rough patch during Hollywood Week when she performed a duet with Benson Boone. Unfortunately, she forgot the lyrics mid-performance, which ultimately led to her elimination.
Jo laughed at her past performance, saying, "Me forgetting all the lyrics to ‘You Say’ [by Lauren Daigle]," referring to the duet she sang with Boone. She added, "When it came to an end, it was a good kick the baby bird out of its nest because I needed to go and grow," sharing how much she has grown since then. Reportedly, Jo has been touring, opening for Alex Warren and Jesse Murph, as she said, "I think my confidence has definitely grown, too."
Before her performance, Bryan encouraged her, saying, "I remember loving your voice." For this audition, she performed an original song, 'Don't Call Me.' Talking about her return, Jo said, "I wanted to come back to American Idol because I learned the most from the show than I have on any tour. I'm going to Hollywood Week much more prepared. This ticket shows me it's always good to get up and try again, and I’m proud of myself for it." Carrie Underwood praised the performance, saying, “I liked it a lot. I liked the song a lot. Your voice, it’s got a different kind of tone to it, but it’s got some power under it when you start going for the higher stuff. A lot of personality in you, and in your voice as well.”
Richie also expressed admiration, noting, “I tell people who want to get in the business, 'It ain't about singing. It's about surviving.' If you can get through that, that's the key. I think you're doing quite well surviving here. It sounds great." Bryan also praised Jo's growth, saying, "There is a different air of confidence to you that's totally new. We're glad you came back around. I'm glad to see your face again 'cause I was a real big fan of yours." Young earned three yeses and her Golden Ticket to Hollywood Week, telling the cameras, "I'm much more prepared. This Golden Ticket shows me it's always good to get back up and try again. I'm really proud of myself for it."
