When Jesse Findling stood before the judges on American Idol, it was more than just an audition. For the Binghamton University junior, it symbolized years of effort, personal growth, and the start of an exciting new chapter.
Jesse, hailing from Long Island, is studying biology with a minor in musical theatre. He wowed the judges during the Season 24 premiere, singing “In The Stars” by Benson Boone. His heartfelt performance earned him a coveted golden ticket to Hollywood, provoking a standing ovation from judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan. “Seeing them stand up was surreal,” Jesse said. “It boosted my confidence going into Hollywood Week.”
Singing has been a lifeline for Jesse, especially while growing up with a stutter. Speaking in class was tough, leaving him feeling self-conscious. But singing provided a release. “I don’t stutter when I sing,” he explained. It began with karaoke sessions at home and evolved into performances at school.
Opening up about his stutter during the audition was a milestone for Jesse. He realized it could inspire others with similar challenges. “Talking about my stutter on national TV was healing,” he noted. “I hope people like me see themselves in my story.”
The choice of “In The Stars” was deliberate. It’s a song Jesse shared with his brother, who also has a stutter. “It felt just right for the moment,” he said.
Jesse’s journey took a turn when he started sharing singing videos online. Initially nervous about exposing himself to an audience, he found that posting boosted his confidence and eventually led him to audition.
His involvement in musical theatre at Binghamton also played a significant role. Performing in shows like Anything Goes helped him grow as an artist and prepared him for the big stage. “Doing shows helped me more than I realized,” Jesse shared.
Interestingly, Jesse’s roommate, Jake Termine, is making his Broadway debut in a revival of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman. They’ve supported each other through their artistic paths. “I don’t know what luck was in our apartment,” Jesse said, reflecting on their simultaneous successes.
To focus solely on his music, Jesse decided to take a semester off from school. “American Idol is a rare opportunity, and I want to give it my all,” he stated. Support from friends and the Binghamton community has kept him motivated.
As Hollywood Week approaches, Jesse hopes to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and follow their passions. “Your stutter is part of who you are,” he advised. “Believe in yourself and don’t worry about what others think.”
With this perspective, Jesse is ready to face whatever comes next on his journey.
