Bergen County Singer Faces Judgment on Live 'American Idol' Monday

Jake Thistle, a recent Rutgers grad, hopes viewers will vote to keep him in the competition.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:49pm

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Jake Thistle, a 22-year-old singer from Paramus, New Jersey, will find out on Monday's live episode of 'American Idol' whether he has earned enough viewer votes to continue in the competition. Thistle, a recent Rutgers graduate, has been performing covers of classic rock and pop hits, as well as original songs, since he was 10 years old.

Why it matters

As a local musician from Bergen County, Thistle's potential success on 'American Idol' would bring pride and recognition to his community. The show's live voting format also creates high-stakes drama and anticipation for viewers.

The details

Two weeks ago, Thistle delivered a high-energy performance of Huey Lewis' 'Power of Love,' which viewers were then allowed to vote on. This Monday, the remaining 20 singers, including Thistle, have been assigned to perform a 'Song of faith.' Thistle has chosen to sing 'Have A Little Faith In Me' by John Hiatt. He is hopeful that he will get the opportunity to move forward in the competition.

  • Thistle performed 'Power of Love' two weeks ago.
  • The live episode where Thistle finds out his fate airs on Monday, March 29, 2026 at 8 p.m. on ABC.

The players

Jake Thistle

A 22-year-old singer from Paramus, New Jersey, and a recent Rutgers graduate who has been competing on 'American Idol.'

American Idol

A popular singing competition television series that airs on ABC.

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What they’re saying

“I hope I get the opportunity to move forward. I really appreciate the support ... It's been an honor, getting to do this in front of an audience, to have that audience grow.”

— Jake Thistle, American Idol Contestant

What’s next

The live episode of 'American Idol' where Thistle finds out if he will continue in the competition airs on Monday, March 29, 2026 at 8 p.m. on ABC.

The takeaway

Thistle's potential success on 'American Idol' would be a source of pride for his local community in Bergen County, New Jersey, and the live voting format of the show creates high anticipation and drama for viewers.