Montgomery Man Earns Golden Ticket on American Idol

25-year-old singer Trew the Star wows judges on hit singing competition show.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 25-year-old singer from Montgomery, Alabama named Trew the Star has earned the iconic golden ticket on the hit TV show American Idol. Trew impressed judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan with his rendition of the Sam Cooke song "Nothing Can Change This Love" during his audition, which aired on Monday night's episode. Trew shared his struggles in life but said his love of music helped him persevere.

Why it matters

Trew's golden ticket win on American Idol represents a major milestone for the young singer, who has auditioned for the show three times before finally being selected. His success highlights the show's ability to provide a platform for undiscovered talent, especially from smaller cities and towns like Montgomery.

The details

During his audition, Trew the Star, 25, wowed the judges with his soulful performance of the Sam Cooke classic "Nothing Can Change This Love." Trew talked about his personal struggles in life, but said his passion for music has helped him push through. Trew is one of four Alabamians who made it through the auditions this week for the current season of American Idol.

  • Trew the Star's audition aired on the American Idol episode that aired on Monday, February 10, 2026.
  • Trew has auditioned for American Idol three separate times before being selected this year.

The players

Trew the Star

A 25-year-old singer from Montgomery, Alabama who earned the golden ticket on American Idol after auditioning for the show three times previously.

Lionel Richie

A judge on the current season of American Idol.

Carrie Underwood

A judge on the current season of American Idol.

Luke Bryan

A judge on the current season of American Idol.

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What they’re saying

“It's crazy just being around all the great singers. It's a space where you can definitely be different. A lot of places I feel like you have to be forced in a box, but with American Idol it's a lot of different talent, a lot of different singers, you get to meet a lot of new people, you get to make a lot of friends. Of course, you get to see the judges, being around them and things of that nature, but overall it's just been a good time.”

— Trew the Star (WAKA Action 8 News)

What’s next

Trew the Star will continue competing on American Idol, with the next round of competition airing on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Trew the Star's golden ticket win on American Idol demonstrates the show's ability to provide a platform for undiscovered talent, especially from smaller cities and towns. His success story inspires other aspiring singers to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face.