Jessica Sanchez's AGT Performance Reopens Old Wounds: Viewers Claim She Was Robbed on American Idol

Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez returned to America's Got Talent on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, delivering a powerful performance that earned her a Golden Buzzer from judge Sofía Vergara.

The performance, which aired in the UK on ITV2, reignited long-standing viewer claims that she was 'robbed' of victory during her run on American Idol in 2012. With Simon Cowell once again on the judging panel, fans were quick to draw comparisons and call the moment a long-overdue redemption.

Jessica Sanchez's Journey from American Idol to AGT

Jessica Sanchez first rose to prominence as the runner-up on American Idol Season 11, finishing behind Phillip Phillips in what many fans still consider one of the show's most controversial outcomes. Prior to that, Sanchez had briefly appeared as a 10-year-old wildcard contestant in the inaugural season of America's Got Talent in 2006.

Now aged 29, Sanchez has spent the past two decades honing her craft, releasing original music, performing internationally, and guest-starring on shows like Glee. According to the Inquirer, her return to AGT after two decades marked an emotional milestone in her career, highlighting her persistence and evolution as an artist. Her performance this year signals not just a comeback but a reclaiming of the spotlight she first stepped into as a child.

Jessica Sanchez Wows AGT Judges with Benson Boone Cover

Performing a heartfelt rendition of Benson Boone's Beautiful Things, Sanchez stunned the AGT audience and judges alike with her vocal range and emotional depth. The performance quickly went viral, with Sofía Vergara hitting the Golden Buzzer and declaring: 'Something very special happened... you deserve this.'

As reported by NBC Insider, Cowell observed: 'I think they like you!' adding that the moment was 'well worth the wait'. NBC also notes Howie Mandel said she 'blew the roof off the place', while Mel B praised her voice as that of 'a bloody angel'

In an emotional twist, Sanchez also announced on stage that she is married and expecting her first child.

Social Media Says Jessica Sanchez Deserved to Win Idol

Following the broadcast, social media lit up with comments from fans, many of whom felt her new moment of glory was a vindication. As reported by Gold Derby, viewers were quick to revisit her Idol finish, with the phrase 'She was robbed on Idol' once again trending on TikTok and X.

Many fans observed that Simon Cowell's praise appeared to acknowledge the sense that she should have won all those years ago.

Simon Cowell Praises Jessica Sanchez's Talent and Grit

While Cowell stopped short of revisiting the Idol outcome directly, his praise for Sanchez's 'grit' and evolution was seen by many as a subtle acknowledgement of past misjudgements. Known for his tough critiques, Cowell's positive remarks carried weight among long-time fans.

This latest performance appears to have re-established Sanchez as a leading vocal talent and reminded audiences of what they saw in her more than a decade ago.

Jessica Sanchez's Future After Viral AGT Return

With the Golden Buzzer sending her to the live shows, Jessica Sanchez emerges as a strong contender for America's Got Talent 2025. Her return is already driving renewed streaming interest and industry buzz. More than a performance, it marks a personal and artistic comeback years in the making.