From stage star to super mom: Jessica Sanchez opens up about her ‘rollercoaster’ journey

Filipino-American singer and songwriter Jessica Sanchez has always been open about her life, sharing both her professional and personal journey with her followers.

Recently, she delighted fans by posting throwback photos from her pregnancy, proudly showing off her baby bump and captioning them “missing the bump,” reflecting how much she cherishes that time. 

She also shared a sweet video of herself holding her newborn daughter while singing lullabies with her own rendition of Golden Hour by JVKE, the song she performed during the America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 20 semi-finals.

In her caption, she wrote, “A song that marked a milestone. Now sung in the quiet moments that matter most,” showing how a defining song from her career now brings beauty and meaning to her new role as a mother.

Jessica’s path to success has not been easy, in fact it was a rollercoaster ride. She first appeared on America’s Got Talent at just 10 years old during the show’s inaugural season. Although she reached the semi-finals, she did not advance to the finals. 

Despite the early setback, the experience sparked her passion for performing and gave her the perseverance to pursue music with stronger commitment.

In 2012, Jessica competed on American Idol Season 11, where her powerful performances earned her the first runner-up spot and brought her widespread recognition across the United States. Soon after, she released her debut studio album Me, You & the Music in 2013, which charted on the US Billboard 200 and helped solidify her place in the music industry, according to Billboard.

Over the years, Jessica continued to grow as an artist. She explored acting with a guest appearance on Glee, according to the report by The Hollywood Reporter. 

She performed at high-profile events such as Miss Universe Philippines 2023, and maintained a strong social media presence through notable covers, including her viral rendition of Defying Gravity, inspired by Wicked star Cynthia Erivo.

In 2025, almost two decades after her first AGT audition, Jessica returned to the America’s Got Talent stage as a more confident and fully developed artist. 

Her audition performance of Benson Boone’s Beautiful Things earned her the Golden Buzzer from judge Sofía Vergara, sending her straight to the show. Throughout the season, audiences and judges praised her vocal strength and emotional depth.

Her journey reached its greatest achievement when she won AGT Season 20, proving that her hard work and determination had finally paid off. Her final performance of Die With a Smile by Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga earned her first place and the $1 million prize.

Just weeks after winning the show, Jessica and her husband, Rickie Gallardo, welcomed their first child, beginning a new and joyful chapter in her life.

In a recent update, the singer shared her postpartum experience, an honest reflection many mothers can relate to. She opened up not to highlight struggle alone, but to show vulnerability and remind other mothers in the same situation to give themselves time and grace.

Meanwhile, Jessica is set to return to Manila on May 16 for her upcoming concert at the Araneta Coliseum, as announced by Wilbros Live.

Jessica’s story shows the power of perseverance. She kept trying, learned from every challenge, and ultimately succeeded. Her journey reminds everyone to keep chasing their dreams, no matter how long it takes.