Benson Boone's Unseen 'American Idol' Duet Airs After 5 Years

Contestant Mary Jo Young returns to the show and reflects on her growth since her initial appearance.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Five years after his brief run on American Idol, previously unseen footage of Benson Boone performing a duet with returning contestant Mary Jo Young from season 19 has finally aired. The two had performed 'You Say' by Lauren Daigle during Hollywood Week in 2021, though the pairing did not make it to air at the time. Young, now 24, previously reached the Top 24 during season 19 and has since toured as an opening act. For her return performance, Young sang her original song 'Don't Call Me' and received praise from the judges for her growth in confidence and vocal ability.

Why it matters

The airing of this previously unseen duet provides a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes moments of American Idol and highlights the continued success of some contestants even after their time on the show. It also showcases the journey of a returning contestant who has used her initial Idol experience to further develop her artistry.

The details

During the Feb. 16 episode, producers broadcast an unaired duet between Boone and returning contestant Mary Jo Young from season 19. The two had performed 'You Say' by Lauren Daigle during Hollywood Week in 2021, though the pairing did not make it to air at the time. Young, now 24, previously reached the Top 24 during season 19 and has since toured as an opening act for Alex Warren and Jesse Murph. For her return performance, Young sang her original song 'Don't Call Me,' which earned praise from the judges for her growth in confidence and vocal ability.

  • The duet between Benson Boone and Mary Jo Young was performed during Hollywood Week in 2021.
  • The previously unseen footage of the duet finally aired on the Feb. 16, 2026 episode of American Idol.

The players

Benson Boone

A former American Idol contestant who advanced to Hollywood Week during season 19 but later withdrew from the competition. He has since emerged as one of the show's most commercially successful alumni, with his 2024 single 'Beautiful Things' becoming a global hit.

Mary Jo Young

A returning American Idol contestant who previously reached the Top 24 during season 19. She has since toured as an opening act and has grown in confidence since her initial appearance on the show.

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What they’re saying

“Me forgetting all the lyrics to 'You Say.'”

— Mary Jo Young

“When it came to an end, it was a good, kick the baby bird out of its nest because I needed to go and grow.”

— Mary Jo Young

“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. [There is] a lot of personality in you and your voice as well.”

— Carrie Underwood, Judge

“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.”

— Lionel Richie, Judge

“There is a different air of confidence to you that's totally new. We're glad you came back around.”

— Luke Bryan, Judge

What’s next

Young received three yes votes from the judges, sending her to Hollywood Week, which is taking place in Nashville this season with episodes scheduled to air on Feb. 23 and March 2.

The takeaway

The airing of this previously unseen duet between Benson Boone and Mary Jo Young showcases the continued impact of American Idol, even for contestants who don't complete a full season run. It also highlights the growth and resilience of returning contestants like Young, who have used their initial Idol experience to further develop their artistry and confidence.