By Michaela Gordoni
AMERICAN IDOL had a special guest open its “Songs of Faith” episode—viral child pastor Luke Tillman.
The 8-year-old prayed, “Dear God, thank You for this day. Thank You for this big opportunity that You gave us to be here. Thank You for all the singers that are here. Thank You for the gift and thank You for the ability to sing. And thank You, Father, for your glory, your praise and all You do for us ,and that’s in Jesus name… Amen.”
Tillman teased his appearance hours before the show, saying he’s “somewhere special.”
Host Ryan Seacrest asked Tillman what song he would choose if he performed.
“Let me think about it,” Tillman said.
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Then he sang, “If you’re talking about Jesus, he’s a friend of mine,” which earned him lots of claps.
Seacrest also asked “Pastor Luke” if he’s had fun on the show.
“Yes, man it’s been awesome to be co-host with you,” Tillman joked. “Thank you for letting me have this big opportunity… I love all you guys!”
One of Tillman’s favorite parts of the night was seeing comedian and influencer Kevin Fredricks and his wife.
“One of my highlights from being on @americanidol was seeing Mr. Churchy himself @kevonstage and @mrskevonstage ❤️🙌🏾 Of course I had to share my new book with them 😎 #grateful #kidpreacher #findingGodeveryday” Tillman’s Instagram account said.
Tillman went viral at the age of five when he baptized his PAW PATROL stuffed animal in the bathtub. Since then, he’s guest starred on the JENNIFER HUDSON SHOW five times. Last year, Tillman guest starred in Fredricks’ CHURCHY series.
Tillman’s father, who is a pastor in Flint, Michigan, said, “It’s a blessing. You know the pressure is always on PK’s (pastor’s kids) and that whole development. For him to decide to want to do it, and authentically want to do it, it’s a blessing.”
Other special guests for the “Songs of Faith” night were former contestants, Filo Ebid, Canaan James Hill and Kolbi Jordan, who sang “How Great Thou Art” with Carrie Underwood, Relevant reported.
AMERICAN IDOL’s new companion podcast, hosted by BOY MEETS WORLD star Danielle Fishell, just launched yesterday. There will be a new episode after every upcoming live show, so fans can dive deep into the competition. It features interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and expert analysis of the judges’ critiques, American Songwriter says. Last year’s winner, Jamal Roberts, is the first episode’s guest.
The next IDOL episode comes out Monday, April 6 on ABC and Disney+.
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