Ruby Rae Stuns With Show-Stopping American Idol Audition, Judges Call Her a “True Star”

Sixteen-year-old Ruby Rae delivered one of the most unforgettable auditions of the season on American Idol, leaving the judges visibly shaken and unanimously convinced they were witnessing the rise of a star.

The high school student from Pacific Palisades, California, entered the audition room with nerves, humility, and the strong support of her family and hometown. Before performing, Ruby spoke candidly about her emotions, admitting that the weight of the moment — and the desire to represent her community — had her feeling overwhelmed.

“It feels incredible to have my family here because they shaped me into the young woman I am today,” she said. “I’ve been trying to stay positive and manifest good things, but realizing it’s all happening today definitely made me nervous.”

Ruby Rae; Photo Courtesy of American Idol / ABC

A Performance Beyond Her Years

Wearing a bright yellow sweater and blue jeans, Ruby Rae delivered a commanding cover of “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo, instantly capturing the room with her tone, control, and emotional depth. Her performance showcased remarkable breath control and vocal maturity rarely seen in a contestant her age.

As she sang the song’s powerful lyrics, the judges remained silent — not out of uncertainty, but disbelief.

Instead of immediately offering feedback, judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan stood up, hugged one another, and celebrated the moment together.

“That was right on the money,” Richie said. “I’m so happy for you.”

“We Haven’t Seen a Star Like You Yet”

Luke Bryan was especially emphatic in his praise, telling Ruby Rae that she checked every possible box for stardom.

“If there were a thousand things on a list to check, I think you checked them all,” Bryan said. “I don’t think we’ve seen a star, star, star like you yet.”

Carrie Underwood focused on Ruby’s technical control, praising her ability to sustain long notes with ease. “Your breath control is really, really incredible,” Underwood said. “I kept wondering when you were going to breathe.”

Singing for Her Community

Beyond her vocal ability, Ruby Rae’s story deeply resonated with the judges. She explained that her audition wasn’t just about chasing a dream — it was about honoring her community of Pacific Palisades, which was devastated by the January 2025 wildfires.

“So much of our community burned,” Ruby shared, listing personal losses that included her preschool, her first theater, her childhood home, and the homes of close friends. “It’s been hard to find joy, but it’s taught me how powerful a community can be when everyone comes together.”

Lionel Richie acknowledged the pain behind her words, praising her for becoming a bright symbol of hope. “To have someone like you come in and represent your community is fantastic,” he told her.

Golden Ticket and a Clear Future

The judges unanimously voted yes, sending Ruby Rae to Hollywood Week, which will take place in Nashville this season. Richie personally handed her the golden ticket, encouraging her to celebrate the milestone.

Ruby dedicated the moment to her family, friends, and hometown. “This golden ticket is for my family and my community,” she said. “This year has been challenging, but I’ve learned to keep going and let the light keep shining.”

As she exited the room, Luke Bryan summed up what many viewers were thinking: “A definite top-10 contender.” Underwood agreed, adding, “That’s a different kind of 16-year-old.”

With a voice far beyond her years and a story rooted in resilience, Ruby Rae has already positioned herself as one of the most compelling talents of the American Idol season.