On May 27, 2025, America’s Got Talent (AGT) will celebrate its landmark 20th season, marking two decades of discovering extraordinary talent and transforming lives. Among the many surprises planned for this milestone season, one moment stands out as particularly poignant: the return of Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez. Sanchez, who first appeared on the show as an 11-year-old contestant in its inaugural season in 2006, is stepping back onto the AGT stage nearly 20 years later. Her return is not just a nostalgic nod to the show’s history—it’s a powerful full-circle moment for a seasoned artist who has spent the last two decades building a career rooted in resilience, talent, and cultural pride.
Jessica Sanchez’s journey with America’s Got Talent began in 2006 when she was just a child with a big voice and even bigger dreams. At the time, AGT was a new venture, a fresh format that would go on to become a global phenomenon, airing in 194 territories and earning a Guinness World Record as the Most Successful Reality Television Format. Sanchez, then a wildcard act selected by judge Brandy Norwood, made it to the semifinals with her rendition of I Surrender. Though she didn’t advance to the finals—Season 1 was ultimately won by Bianca Ryan—her brief stint on the show left a lasting impression on viewers and marked the beginning of her journey in the spotlight.
Fast forward to 2012, and Sanchez became a household name as the runner-up on American Idol Season 11. Her powerful vocals and sweet demeanor made her a fan favorite, though she was narrowly defeated by Phillip Phillips in a season influenced by the controversial “Vote for the Worst” campaign. Despite the loss, Sanchez’s career gained momentum. She released her debut album, Me, You & the Music, in 2013, performed The Star-Spangled Banner for President Barack Obama at the White House Easter Egg Roll, and even landed a guest role on Glee as Frida Romero. She also became the voice behind Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign song, showcasing her versatility and staying power in the industry. Over the years, Sanchez has toured globally, particularly in the Philippines, where she has cultivated a strong fanbase and collaborated with local artists, proudly embracing her Filipino heritage.
Now, at 29 years old, Sanchez is returning to the stage where it all began, but this time as a seasoned performer with a wealth of experience and a renewed sense of purpose. In the official trailer for AGT’s 20th season, released by NBC on May 4, 2025, Sanchez is seen addressing the judges—Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B—with a mix of pride and nostalgia. “I was actually on the very first season of AGT,” she tells them, her voice carrying the confidence of someone who has come a long way since her days as a wide-eyed child. Judge Sofía Vergara’s response captures the sentiment of the moment: “After 20 years, this was a special moment for America’s Got Talent.”
Sanchez’s return has sparked excitement among fans, particularly in the Filipino-American community, where she has long been a source of pride. Born in Chula Vista, California, in August 1995, Sanchez is the daughter of Editha Sanchez, whose family hails from Samal, Bataan, and Gilbert Sanchez, a Mexican-American from Texas who served in the United States Navy Reserves. As the eldest of three children, Sanchez grew up in Eastlake, Chula Vista, where her love for music took root at an early age. Her journey from a small-town girl to an international artist resonates deeply with fans who see her as a symbol of perseverance and cultural representation.
Reflecting on her return to AGT, Sanchez shared her emotions on social media, describing the experience as a “full-circle moment” that reignited her belief in bigger possibilities. “It feels surreal,” she wrote on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to revisit the stage that launched her career. Fans have echoed her excitement, flooding platforms like X with messages of support. One user wrote, “Jessica Sanchez back at Americas Got Talent 2025 after 20 yrs?!!!! daymn go girl. Laban. ❤️,” capturing the enthusiasm and pride felt by many.
The significance of Sanchez’s return extends beyond her personal journey—it’s a testament to the enduring impact of America’s Got Talent. Since its debut on June 21, 2006, the show has captivated audiences with its diverse array of performers, from singers and dancers to magicians and comedians. Over the years, AGT has spawned several successful spinoffs, including AGT: The Champions (2019-2020), AGT: Extreme (2022), America’s Got Talent: All-Stars (2023), and AGT: Fantasy League (2024). The show’s ability to evolve while staying true to its mission of discovering raw talent has kept it relevant for two decades, and Sanchez’s comeback is a fitting way to celebrate that legacy.
This season of AGT also brings changes to the judging panel, with Mel B returning after a five-year hiatus to replace Heidi Klum, who had been a judge since 2013. Mel B, who previously served on the panel from seasons 8 to 13, joins Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, and Sofía Vergara, with Terry Crews returning as host. The season promises to be a nostalgic celebration, with the return of past contestants and a focus on the show’s history of creating life-changing opportunities for performers like Sanchez.
For Sanchez, this moment is about more than just a second chance at AGT—it’s an opportunity to showcase her growth as an artist and a person. Since her American Idol days, she has continued to evolve, releasing music, performing globally, and even going viral in 2023 with a cover of Beyoncé’s Drunk in Love. Her performances on AGT are expected to be “mature, powerful, and emotionally charged,” reflecting the depth and experience she has gained over the years. As she steps back into the spotlight, Sanchez is not just revisiting her past—she’s redefining her future, proving that talent, resilience, and a connection to one’s roots can lead to extraordinary comebacks.
As America’s Got Talent Season 20 premieres on NBC, viewers around the world will be watching to see how far Sanchez will go this time. Her journey—from a 10-year-old wildcard to a global artist returning to her roots—is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the magic of second chances. For longtime fans, her return is a moment of pride and nostalgia; for new viewers, it’s a chance to witness a star reclaiming her place on one of the world’s biggest stages. Whatever the outcome, Jessica Sanchez’s return to AGT is a story of growth, resilience, and the enduring power of dreams—a fitting tribute to the show’s 20-year legacy.
