Pregnant, Fearless, and Finally a Winner: Jessica Sanchez’s 20-Year Journey to AGT Glory
Jessica Sanchez returned to the stage and claimed her long-awaited victory on America’s Got Talent, proving that motherhood and ambition can co-exist beautifully
From the moment she stepped on stage during America’s Got Talent auditions in July, Jessica immediately captured the judges’ attention. Twenty years after first appearing on the talent show as a child, she returned with newfound strength and walked away as this season’s grand winner.
It was a long time coming for the young Filipino-American, who was once a runner-up on American Idol and decided to give her dream one more shot.
A Voice That Never Gave Up
During auditions, Jessica opened up to the judges about nearly giving up on her music career after years of industry pressure.
“It may have taken me 20 years, but I know exactly who I am. I know exactly what I want,” she confidently told Simon Cowell.
She also revealed she was expecting her first child. On her 30th birthday in August, Jessica shared a heartfelt reflection on her journey—this time, with a baby girl on the way.
“Today was one of those days where you look back and realize how far God has brought you. The tough but beautiful journey that you’ve been on, and how good He has been through it all. I never could’ve imagined my life would look like this; it’s more than I could’ve ever asked for. My heart is full of gratitude. Not because of the gifts or the cake, but because of all the love and grace I’ve been given throughout these 30 years.”
The Golden Hour
For the finale, Jessica delivered two powerful performances—“Die With a Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, and “Golden Hour” by JVKE enhanced by a breathtaking aerial act from trapeze duo Sirca Marea.
During her performance of “Die With a Smile,” the judges praised her flawless vocals and marveled at her composure while pregnant. Melanie B expressed amazement at how calm the baby seemed, while Simon Cowell called Jessica’s return “important and inspiring.”
“It showed that even if you don’t win the first time, you’ve got to believe in yourself,” Cowell said.
Before the winner was announced, a short video recap of Jessica’s journey played on screen. In it, she reflected on her early performances and shared what she would say to her younger self.
“I wish I could tell my 10-year-old self, ‘Here we are today, girl!’ This journey has definitely been transformative for me. To do this with her in my belly… I feel so strong,” she said, referring to her unborn daughter.
Still on Cloud Nine
After her win, Jessica posted a video message on her social media, joined by her husband, Rickie Gallardo. She expressed deep gratitude to the judges, the show’s staff, her fellow contestants, and the fans who voted for her.
“I just want to say thank you, guys, for voting for me and for believing in me,” she said.
She also gave special thanks to Sofia Vergara, who awarded her the golden buzzer, and Simon Cowell for championing her journey. Jessica revealed that she had hesitated to audition after learning she was pregnant, unsure if it was the right time.
“I asked myself, should I continue with this journey? Should I still pursue this even if I’m pregnant? And my husband reminded me, ‘There’s an open door there. I think it’s your responsibility to walk through it and see what happens.’”
That leap of faith brought her to the AGT stage—where she not only won, but redefined what it means to be a working, dreaming mom-to-be.
A Nation Celebrates
News of Jessica’s win quickly spread online, sparking celebrations among Filipino communities around the world. Several well-known artists, including Ogie Alcasid and Martin Nievera, posted heartfelt congratulations.
“Thank you for adding sunshine to our cloudy days! You have taken our minds off the current events and given us reason to cheer again!” Martin wrote, “Hey world, another Pinay champion was revealed tonight! Jessica, you were always a champion singer, and soon you will be holding a champion in your arms. Congratulations, my dear! I am s,o so happy for you! You made your country proud!”
Ogie Alcasid echoed the sentiment: “Congratulations to Jessica Sanchez for winning the 20th season of America’s Got Talent!!!”
The hosts of the noontime show It’s Showtime offered their congratulations during a live broadcast, while the Miss Universe Philippines organization also celebrated her win. Jessica sang the organization’s first-ever theme song, “Over the Universe.”
Dreaming Never Stops
As she basks in her victory and prepares to welcome her daughter, Jessica Sanchez sends a powerful message to dreamers everywhere—especially mothers: your story doesn’t end when motherhood begins. In fact, it may be the start of your greatest chapter yet.
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FAQs: Jessica Sanchez
For the first round of the finale, Jessica sang her version of Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ song “Die With A Smile.” For the second round, she performed JVKE’s “Golden Hour,” accompanied by the trapeze duo Sirca Marea.
Jessica first won as a runner-up on the 11th season of American Idol. On September 24, U.S. time, she became the winner of the 20th season of America’s Got Talent.
