Kids

Filipino-American Mikaela Bautista Wows Judges During American Idol Auditions

by Alexa Villano
March 19, 2025

Mikaela warms the hearts of the judges when her father joins her for an impromptu performance

Another Filipino-American has passed the rigorous auditions of American Idol.

Mikaela Bautista from Southern California faced the Idol panel composed of Carrie Underwood, Lionel Ritchie, and Luke Bryan. Mikaela performed “Saving All My Love for You,” by Whitney Houston.

Lionel and Luke gave their approval for Mikaela. But Carrie, an Idol alumna herself, wasn’t convinced and initially said no. That is until a special number changed everything.

Enter Mikaela’s dad

When Mikaela’s family entered after hearing the news, they hugged her. Lionel then asked about her dad, who then stepped forward to introduce himself by singing a bar of Lionel’s song “Hello,” to the amusement of Carrie and Luke.

Carrie then asked Mikaela and her dad to sing together. Both sang “The Prayer.”

Carrie was impressed that she said: “Can I change my judgement? I would like to strike my previous [vote] and you have three yeses.”

Hours after the broadcast, Mikaela took to Instagram to share photos of her holding the golden ticket.

“Still in shock! I just got the golden ticket to Hollywood! Huge thanks to @CarrieUnderwood, @LukeBryan, and @LionelRichie! Such an incredible honor!”

Mikaela warms the hearts of the judges when her father joins her for an impromptu performance — Photo from mikaelaabautista

In another post, Mikaela wrote: “And the journey begins! Beyond thrilled to share this adventure with you all.”

Mikaela also shared a video of thanks, saying that she’s dedicating the journey to the Filipino supporters, especially her kababayans from Ilocos.

The journey is just starting

Mikaela joins the growing list of Filipino-American contestants on the show, which also includes Jasmine Trias, Tyson Venegas, Jessica Sanchez, Camille Velasco, Ramille Malubay, and Francisco Martin.

Mikaela joins Baylee Littrell, the son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, in a hunt for one of the show’s finalist spots. This is only the beginning, and we will learn more about Mikaela during her journey.