Jersey Shore cop crashes 'American Idol' auditions

Julia Sienna Santiago, a special officer in the Sea Girt Police Department, will appear on the show's upcoming episode.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Julia Sienna Santiago, a 20-year-old special officer in the Sea Girt Police Department, will make her debut on the upcoming episode of 'American Idol'. In a teaser clip, Santiago is shown arresting 'Idol' judge Luke Bryan, much to the delight of fellow judge Carrie Underwood. Santiago previously won a 'Golden Ticket' in the 2023 Freehold Idol competition and has built a following on TikTok for her vocal covers.

Why it matters

Santiago's appearance on 'American Idol' highlights the growing trend of law enforcement officers pursuing creative passions outside of their day jobs. Her viral TikTok videos also showcase the power of social media in launching aspiring artists into the spotlight.

The details

In the Feb. 9 episode of 'American Idol', Santiago, who is identified as Julia Sienna on the show, is seen slapping handcuffs on judge Luke Bryan. The 20-year-old has a background in musical theater, having participated in the Rock It! Academy and being nominated for Outstanding Female Lead in a Musical at the Basie Awards. She has also sung the National Anthem at multiple events in the Jersey Shore area.

  • On Feb. 9, Santiago was shown arresting 'Idol' judge Luke Bryan in a teaser clip.
  • Santiago will audition for a Golden Ticket to the show's Hollywood Week on the Monday, Feb. 16 episode.

The players

Julia Sienna Santiago

A 20-year-old special officer in the Sea Girt Police Department who will appear on the upcoming episode of 'American Idol'.

Luke Bryan

A judge on 'American Idol' who was 'arrested' by Santiago in a teaser clip for the show.

Carrie Underwood

A fellow 'American Idol' judge who cheered on Bryan's 'arrest' by Santiago.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Am I in trouble?”

— Luke Bryan, American Idol Judge (American Idol)

“Watching my dreams unfold right on front of me …”

— Julia Sienna Santiago (TikTok)

What’s next

Santiago will audition for a Golden Ticket to the show's Hollywood Week on the Monday, Feb. 16 episode of 'American Idol'.

The takeaway

Santiago's appearance on 'American Idol' showcases the diverse talents of law enforcement officers and the power of social media in launching aspiring artists into the spotlight.