McKenna Breinholt's Tear-Jerking Audition
McKenna Breinholt is a contestant on Season 22 of American Idol, where she shared the story of her adoption and revealed details about her famous late parents.
I'm Not Crying. Are You Crying?
McKenna Breinholt appeared on American Idol on Tuesday, February 19, 2024, and she captivated audiences globally, marking an unforgettable moment in the show's history. Her heartfelt audition, teased as a sneak peek of the season premiere, not only showcased her remarkable talent but also unveiled the deeply personal story behind her velvety voice and passion for music.
Taking the stage with poise and grace, McKenna, a 25-year-old singer from Gilbert, Arizona, delivered a soul-stirring rendition of "There Was Jesus," a Grammy-winning duet by Zach Williams and Dolly Parton. Accompanying herself on the piano, McKenna infused the song with her own unique style, captivating both judges and audience with her raw emotion and stripped-down arrangement.
Yet, it was McKenna's poignant narrative that truly struck a chord. Opening up to the judges, she revealed her adoption and her recent quest to uncover the identity of her birth mother. The discovery was not only unexpected but also filled with revelations about her deep-rooted passion for music. McKenna's birth mother was Amy Ross Lopez, also known as A Whiskey Girl, a singer from Bisbee, Arizona, who performed with the folk duo Nowhere Man and A Whiskey Girl. Tragically, Amy passed away in 2013 from complications related to lupus, leaving McKenna to navigate her own path in life.
A Reunion of Hearts
As McKenna shared her journey with the judges, little did she know that her adoptive parents had orchestrated a surprise of epic proportions. Waiting on the other side of the door were members of her birth family, including her grandmother, whom McKenna had never met. When the judges invited her to bring the family in to meet them, without hesitation, she walked to the door and as she opened it, she burst into tears as if she already knew everyone from a long time ago. The emotional reunion that followed brought tears to the eyes of everyone in the room, as McKenna embraced her newfound family with love and gratitude.
Nowhere Man and Whiskey Girl
McKenna Breinholt's birth parents are Derrick and Amy Ross, known as Nowhere Man and Whiskey Girl, shared their love and music with the world. Amy sang and played keyboard while Derrick strummed his guitar. They were married for 13 happy years and had a strong fan base in the Southwest.
Sadly, tragedy struck on a Monday when Amy passed away from a blood infection caused by her lupus treatment. Later that night, Derrick took his own life. Despite his brave face, Derrick had secretly bought a gun after Amy's death. Their friend, comedian Doug Stanhope, shared Amy's last words on her Facebook page. He later posted about Derrick's death too. It's clear they deeply loved each other. They deserved more time together. May they rest in peace.
The Idol Chapter Begins
As McKenna continues her journey on American Idol, she carries with her the legacy of her birth mother and the love of her newfound family. With each note she sings and every chord she plays, she honors the past while embracing the future, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories are found in the most unexpected places.
Where to Watch American Idol 2024
For those eager to follow McKenna's journey, American Idol Season 22 premieres on Sunday, February 18, on ABC, with streaming available on Hulu. Don't miss the chance to witness McKenna's inspiring story unfold before your eyes.
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