Lola Bonfiglio's Family Shocker Leaves American Idol Judges Speechless!

Hold on for this American Idol contestant’s surprise.

In the spotlight, as I stood before Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan during their March 23 episode, I, Lola Bonfiglio, a 19-year-old aspirant, was not alone. My father, Rob Bonfiglio, was by my side, strumming the guitar. This musical companionship caught Carrie’s attention, leading her to remark, “Ah, it seems you hail from a family with a rich musical heritage.

Prior to starting to sing, Lola expeditiously exited the room and called upon some fellow family members: her mother, Carnie Wilson, and aunt Wendy Wilson, who were part of the ’90s band, Wilson Phillips.

Following Carnie declaring herself as Lola’s mother and expressing “it’s a family event”, the three women harmoniously sang the Wilson Phillips hit “Hold On”. Notably, Lola took over lead vocals, standing in for Chynna Phillips, one of the band’s original members.

Carnie, the eldest daughter of Brian Wilson – one of the cofounders of the Beach Boys along with Marilyn Wilson-Rutherford, noted that it’s evident they belong to a family. She explained, “It’s as if we’re all genetically wired to harmonize beautifully together.

Eagerness overflowed from Carnie as she chattered enthusiastically about being included in Lola’s significant occasion.

“We love singing with Lola,” she exclaimed, “but we love Lola by herself even more.”

Following their captivating performance, Carnie, Wendy, and Rob moved aside, giving Lola the spotlight so she could showcase her talents while performing Kacey Musgraves’ “Rainbow” on her own.

After my captivating solo performance following Lola’s spotlight, I received an affirmative response from each of the judges, securing me a coveted pass to Hollywood.

After her performance, she expressed that this audition seems to challenge her greatly as it’s beyond her usual comfort zone, since she is accustomed to singing with her parents and family. However, she’s thrilled about the prospect of learning and growing from this new experience.

On season 23 of Idol, it wasn’t just Lola who was a child of a well-known singer aiming for stardom in Hollywood. Joining her was Baylee Littrell, who was accompanied by his father Brian Litterell, famously known as a member of the Backstreet Boys. On the March 10 premiere, he performed an original song and earned a spot in Hollywood, increasing his chances to be crowned the next American Idol.

Keep reading to see more American Idol alums who have famous parents…

Nikko, who is the son of the renowned Major League Baseball player Ozzie Smith, showcased his vocal talents during Season 4 of American Idol, performing Stevie Wonder’s hit song “All I Do.

Nikko made it to the top nine before he was eliminated.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, let me share with you an interesting tidbit: I, much like Jordin Sparks, have a connection to the world of sports and entertainment. You see, I’m the daughter of Phillippi Sparks, a former star player for the New York Giants. My claim to fame, however, lies in a different realm – music. Specifically, I had the honor of competing on season 6 of American Idol.

Reminiscing about that time, I can still vividly recall the day I auditioned in Seattle, Washington. The city’s unique charm was a stark contrast to the nerves that coursed through my veins as I prepared to perform Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me.” It was an experience I will cherish forever.

She got a positive response from judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson, which ultimately led her to victory in that season.

Since 2007, the “Battlefield” singer has produced numerous successful tracks and received Grammy nominations. In 2009, she was nominated for Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals for her duet with Chris Brown on “No Air.” More recently, in 2024, she was recognized with a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song, sharing the honor for “Love Me Like I Am” with For King & Country.

In season 10, Lara, the daughter of Tom Johnston from The Doobie Brothers, performed Stevie Wonder’s “All I Do” during an audition in San Francisco, California.

She made it to the Hollywood round and was eliminated.

Actress Jim Carrey’s daughter, Jane, appeared as a contestant during season 11, performing Bonnie Raitt’s “Something to Talk About” at a venue in sunny San Diego, California.

Jane made it to the first round of Hollywood week before being eliminated.

Previously with the St. Louis Cardinals, Joe Magrane’s daughter, Shannon, showcased her talent during season 11 of the competition series. She delivered a captivating rendition of Etta James’ hit song “Something’s Got a Hold on Me,” impressing all three judges who responded with a resounding “yes.

Shannon secured a spot in the top 11 before she was sent home.

Gianna, the daughter of ’80s pop sensation Brenda K. Starr, tried out for season 15 of the show. During her audition, she sang her mother’s popular tune “I Still Believe,” leaving the judges amazed by her performance.

The New Jersey contestant finished with a place in the top ten.

Amelia, the child of pianist and “Great Balls of Fire” composer Jack Hammer, appeared on season 16 of American Idol. In Savannah, Georgia, she sang “Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones, which impressed all judges, including Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, who each granted her a spot in the competition.

She secured a spot in the top 24 before being eliminated.

Claudia, who is the daughter of Kellyanne Conway (former Senior Counselor to President Donald Trump) and George Conway (previously serving as a counselor to Trump), tried out for season 19.

On November 16th, Katy posted an announcement about an audition on her Instagram story, expressing excitement by saying, “Here we go! Claudia has given it a shot for ‘American Idol’.

The influencer performed “When We Were Young” by Adele and “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna during the competition, but unfortunately received a ‘no’ from Luke. However, both Katy and Lionel gave their approval. Claudia advanced to the Hollywood round, but ultimately was eliminated before moving forward.

Ava, the daughter of Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, tried out for season 20 using Stevie Wonder’s “Lately.” All three judges were amazed by her performance and advanced her to the next round, known as the Hollywood round.

She advanced to the final 14 and sang “Sign of the Times” by Harry Styles, yet unfortunately, her performance didn’t secure her a place in the competition.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m thrilled to share that I too will be joining Season 20 of this popular show. I’m Leah, daughter of the talented guitarist Derry Grehan from The Honeymoon Suite. Just like me, my father has left an indelible mark in the music industry. In my audition held in Nashville, I belted out “Steal My Girl” by One Direction, a decision that not only showcased my passion for music but also earned me a place in the next round. Can’t wait to see what the journey holds!

She advanced as a finalist during the season, performing “Cover Me” by Bruce Springsteen and her own composition titled “Flowers,” but ultimately didn’t win.

Lyric Mederios, who is the daughter of singer Glenn Mederios, attempted to win a spot in season 21 of Nashville with the Kelsea Ballerini song “Love Me Like You Mean It”. However, Katy Perry suggested she should sing a more difficult tune, and so she performed Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats” instead.

Luke cast a ‘no’ vote, but Katy and Lionel advanced Luke to the following stage. However, Lyric was quickly removed from the competition during the Hollywood round that followed.

Juan Pablo, a former student at Bachelor University, shared that his daughter Camila tried out for season 22 of American Idol by performing Joaquina’s “Rabia.” However, before she took the stage, Juan confessed that he felt anxious about his daughter stepping into the spotlight.

He said, “When the chance arose, she expressed interest. I questioned whether she was mature enough for it. That was a year ago. I suggested, ‘Perhaps next year.’ Now, look at her! Time will tell how it unfolds.

As a loyal supporter, I was the one who faced a “no” from Lionel when my turn came up, but Katy and Luke chose to advance me to the following stage. Regrettably, though, I eventually fell short during Hollywood Week and was unfortunately eliminated from the competition.

In the tradition of her renowned music grandmother, Loretta Lynn, Emmy auditioned for season 22 with an original song titled “Skinny,” which delved into her battles with eating disorders. Her captivating performance earned her a coveted golden ticket from Lionel, Katy, and Luke, who were all taken aback to discover the hidden identity of her music legend grandmother.

Patsy Lynn Russell, who was part of the country duo The Lynns with her twin sister Peggy Lynn, came to see her backstage.

Patsy remarked about her daughter’s choice to try out for American Idol: “She simply wanted to be truthful about it,” she said. “In my opinion, when you originate from a family of musicians, the expectations can seem overwhelming. The question isn’t about filling those shoes, but rather creating your own path – crafting your unique influence.

1. “Katy adored the show and commended you: ‘You’re an exceptional songwriter, just like your grandmother. You possess a unique talent.'”

2. “Emmy made it to the Top 5 in season 22, but she wasn’t crowned the winner that year.”

On the 9th of March, Baylee showcased his talent during the audition for the competition series, singing before a fresh judge, Carrie Underwood, and familiar faces Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. He played an original composition, and his dad, former Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, joined him on stage to harmonize on the chorus.

All three judges voted yes for Baylee, advancing him into the next round of season 23.

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2025-03-25 19:47

Lola Bonfiglio’s Family Shocker Leaves American Idol Judges Speechless!

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