American Idol surprised fans during its Feb. 16 episode by sharing a long-lost moment from Season 19 — a performance that had never been broadcast until now. Five years after his short-lived appearance on the show, unseen footage of Benson Boone performing during Hollywood Week finally aired, giving viewers a glimpse into a chapter of his journey that had remained behind the scenes.
Most notably, Benson Boone’s Season 19 duet is set to air for the first time on American Idol, marking a nostalgic milestone for longtime fans of the competition series.
A Hollywood Week Duet Revisited
The newly revealed clip featured Boone alongside returning contestant Mary Jo Young. During Hollywood Week in 2021, the pair teamed up to perform “You Say” by Lauren Daigle. Although the duet was part of the season’s original filming schedule, it never made the final broadcast — until now.
At the time, Young advanced to the Top 24, while Boone reached Hollywood Week before ultimately deciding to withdraw from the competition. Their partnership, though brief on screen, clearly left an impression.
Reflecting humorously on the moment, Young told the judges she still remembers “forgetting all the lyrics” during the performance. Despite the mishap, she described the experience as a turning point — comparing it to being pushed out of the nest to grow stronger and more independent.
Benson Boone’s Rise After Idol
Though Boone did not complete the season, his career trajectory tells a compelling story. Since leaving American Idol, he has become one of the show’s most commercially successful alumni who didn’t finish a full run.
His 2024 breakout single “Beautiful Things” catapulted him into global stardom, climbing into the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating international charts. The once-brief contestant has now carved out a name for himself in the pop landscape — proof that success isn’t always defined by how long someone stays in a competition.
The resurfaced duet serves as a reminder of just how far he has come.
Mary Jo Young’s Confident Comeback
Young’s return to the Idol stage highlighted her growth both as an artist and as a performer. Since her first appearance, she has toured as an opening act for Alex Warren and Jesse Murph, building her stage presence and sharpening her artistry.
For her comeback audition, she performed her original song, “Don’t Call Me,” impressing the judging panel with her stronger vocal control and renewed confidence.
Carrie Underwood praised both her songwriting and vocal tone, noting a newfound power in her upper register and a distinctive personality shining through.
Lionel Richie offered career wisdom, emphasizing that longevity in the industry depends on resilience just as much as talent.
Meanwhile, Luke Bryan observed a noticeable boost in her confidence, applauding her growth since her original audition.
The judges awarded Young three “yes” votes, securing her place in the next round.
Hollywood Week — With a Twist
Despite the traditional name, this season’s Hollywood Week won’t actually take place in Hollywood. Instead, contestants will head to Nashville, with episodes scheduled to air Feb. 23 and March 2 on ABC.
After receiving her Golden Ticket, Young reflected on why she chose to return. She explained that the lessons she learned on American Idol outweighed anything she experienced on tour. This time, she says, she’s stepping into Hollywood Week better prepared — and prouder of herself for trying again.
A Full-Circle Moment
The release of the previously unseen duet offers fans a powerful full-circle moment. For Boone, it’s a reminder of humble beginnings before global success. For Young, it symbolizes growth, resilience, and second chances.
And for viewers, it proves that sometimes the performances we don’t see right away still carry lasting impact — especially when Benson Boone’s Season 19 duet is set to air for the first time on American Idol, bringing a hidden piece of Idol history back into the spotlight.
