An contestant paid homage to her mother, who happened to be a 2005 series finalist, in the cutest way.
During Sunday’s episode of the annual talent show, fashion stylist Zaréh, 21, rocked up to audition for judges Lionel Ritchie, and Luke Bryan and brought her mum Nadia Turner – who came in eighth place with country singer claiming the crown.
Under the impression that they were both heading on a mother/daughter spa day, Nadia was shocked to find herself in the same room where she sang in front of , Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, 17 years later.
To keep the surprise under wraps, Zaréh made her mum don a blindfold before meeting host , who confirmed where she actually was.
To top it off, the singing hopeful opted for the same outfit as she sang Jazmine Sullivan’s Bust Your Windows, made famous by Nadia.
‘Well, this is the best mother-daughter day ever!’ Katy enthused.
All Night Long hitmaker Lionel added: ‘It’s such a wonderful, heartfelt story on our 20th season here at American Idol to have this come full circle.’
Unfortunately, Zaréh didn’t make it through to the next round, but we hope they treated themselves to that spa anyway.
Another contestant who wowed the judges with her surprising family connection was – ’s granddaughter.
After she sang her grandmother’s classic hit, Grace revealed her personal connection to the queen of soul, who in August, 2018.
‘Stop right there. That is your grandma?’ said Lionel, before he reminisced about the good times he shared with the Respect singer.
Although Katy voted for the youngster to make it through the next round, Luke and Lionel voted no and encouraged her to keep practicing – which led the Dark Horse musician to walk off in protest.
American Idol airs on Netflix for fans in the UK.
