Julián Kalel didn’t just walk back into the American Idol audition room — he reclaimed a moment that once felt out of reach.
After stepping away from American Idol in 2025 to focus on his mental health, the 19-year-old college student from El Paso, Texas, returned to the stage with courage, clarity, and a song born from survival. What followed was one of the most emotional auditions of the season.
As Kalel stood before judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan, recognition set in immediately. “Do you remember this kid?” Underwood asked. Bryan didn’t hesitate: “Yes. I thought about him a lot.” Richie echoed the sentiment, welcoming him warmly. “We are so happy to see you.”
A Second Chance, Earned
Kalel first auditioned for American Idol the year before, delivering a raw original song titled “Surrender,” which tackled anxiety and depression head-on. The judges were instantly captivated, calling him a star and even hinting at a potential win. But behind the scenes, Kalel was struggling.
“The things the judges told me that day felt like my life was changing,” he recalled. “It was one of the greatest moments of my life. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to continue forward. There were concerns about my ability to balance Idol and my mental health.”
At the time, Kalel was battling severe anxiety and depression. He described anxiety as “a big wave crashing on you — and you just drown.” He admitted he was questioning the value of his own life.
Music, however, remained his lifeline.
“I knew I would regret it if I didn’t give this another shot,” he said. “I want my message to be about not giving up — and not being defined by your struggles, but by your strengths. Life is a gift.”
A Song Written in the Dark — and Sung in the Light
This time, Kalel returned with a new original song: “Lone Guitar.” Written during what he described as a crossroads moment, the song carries a simple but life-saving message: stay one more day.
With his acoustic guitar in hand and his sister Karyssa accompanying him on violin, Kalel delivered a haunting, soul-baring performance. His voice — tender and aching, reminiscent of Noah Kahan — filled the room as lyrics explored guilt, fear, faith, and survival.
“What do you see when you look at me?
The blessings that I’m letting go…
Just a boy afraid to die.”
Throughout the performance, the judges were visibly moved. Underwood wiped away tears. Bryan smiled with unmistakable pride. The room felt still — reverent.
“You Were Born Enough”
The ovation came instantly.
Lionel Richie offered words that resonated far beyond the audition room:
“Welcome back. I say this all the time, and I’m going to pass it on to you — you were born enough.”
Carrie Underwood praised Kalel’s rare honesty. “You organize your thoughts and feelings into song in a way that feels so real. That’s something the world needs.”
Luke Bryan didn’t hold back. “You’ve got the magic. You have the tools of a great singer. I’m so glad you’re back — let’s just have fun with this.”
The vote was unanimous. Yes. Yes. Yes.
Julián Kalel was headed to Hollywood Week.
More Than a Golden Ticket
Holding his golden ticket, Kalel smiled — not in disbelief, but in gratitude.
“I felt understood. I felt seen,” he said. “I want to spread this message: You are loved. Everyone is born enough.”
Kalel’s return wasn’t just a standout audition — it was a reminder of music’s power to heal, to connect, and to help people survive their darkest moments.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Visit impact.Disney.com/findsupport or call/text 988.
New episodes of American Idol air Mondays at 8/7c on ABC and stream the next day on Hulu.
