Mary Jo Young returns to American Idol, impresses judges with duet

The 24-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio previously competed on Season 19 of the show.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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American Idol season 24 featured the return of 24-year-old Mary Jo Young, who previously competed on Season 19 of the show. During her audition, Young performed an original song and impressed the judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, who praised her growth in confidence and vocal ability since her last appearance. The judges unanimously voted to send Young through to the Hollywood Week round.

Why it matters

Mary Jo Young's return to American Idol showcases the show's ability to provide a platform for aspiring artists to grow and develop their talents over time. Her journey highlights the resilience and determination required to succeed in the music industry, as she persevered after a previous setback on the show.

The details

During her audition, Young reminded the judges of her memorable duet mishap from Season 19, where she forgot the lyrics to Lauren Daigle's "You Say" during Hollywood Week. However, the judges noted a marked improvement in her confidence and vocal performance this time around. Young performed an original song called "Don't Call Me" that impressed the panel, with Carrie Underwood praising the power and personality in her voice. The judges were unanimous in their decision to send Young through to the next round of the competition.

  • Mary Jo Young previously competed on Season 19 of American Idol in 2021.
  • The American Idol season 24 auditions were filmed in February 2026.

The players

Mary Jo Young

A 24-year-old singer from Cleveland, Ohio who previously competed on Season 19 of America's Next Top Model before auditioning for American Idol.

Carrie Underwood

A country music singer and songwriter who serves as a judge on American Idol season 24.

Luke Bryan

A country music singer and songwriter who serves as a judge on American Idol season 24.

Lionel Richie

A singer, songwriter, and record producer who serves as a judge on American Idol season 24.

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What they’re saying

“I liked it a lot. I liked the song a lot. Your voice has a different tone to it. It's got some power under it when you start going for the higher stuff. A lot of personality in you and your voice as well.”

— Carrie Underwood, Judge (primetimer.com)

“I tell people who try to get in the business, it ain't about singing, it's about surviving. If you can get through that, that's the key. You're doing quite well at surviving. It sounds great. You're going to get knocked down, and you might get knocked out. Don't take it personal. Just come back in the ring. That's what it's all about.”

— Lionel Richie, Judge (primetimer.com)

“Life's been getting you a little bit, but that's going to happen in the music business, but there is a different air of confidence to you that's totally new. We're glad you came back around, and we're glad to see your face again because I was a real big fan of yours.”

— Luke Bryan, Judge (primetimer.com)

What’s next

Mary Jo Young will advance to the Hollywood Week round of American Idol season 24, where she will compete against other contestants for a spot in the live shows.

The takeaway

Mary Jo Young's return to American Idol demonstrates the show's ability to provide a platform for artists to grow and develop their talents over time. Her journey highlights the resilience and determination required to succeed in the music industry, as she persevered after a previous setback on the show.