Katy Perry in Tears Holding 'Idol' Contestant's Phone as He Sings So Sick Mom Can Watch
Television certainly likes to tug at our heartstrings lately, and “American Idol” season 17 may as well be the reality version of “This Is Us” for all the emotions we’re feeling for these contestants.
Two young men who stood before the judges in Hollywood this week wanted to dedicate their performances to the most important women in their lives — their mothers.
Wade Cota, whose heartbreaking childhood involved an abusive father, said he wouldn’t be where he is without his mom’s strength.
“I would not be here if my mom did not get us out of that situation,” the 27-year-old Arizona native said. “I don’t even understand how someone could be that strong.”
Cota nailed his second “Idol” performance with “Litost” by X Ambassadors, and landed a spot in the next round, taking place in Hawaii.
He wasn’t the only one honoring his mom this week. When 27-year-old Dimitrius Graham of Maryland walked out onto the stage, he had a very special request for the judges.
“My mother, she is about to have surgery tomorrow,” Graham said. “I just wondered if I could FaceTime her and let her be a part of this.”
The judges were more than happy to comply and even said hello to Graham’s sweet mama, Lorraine. Katy Perry held up the phone as the young man performed.
Watch as Perry is unable to hold back her tears during Graham’s a cappella rendition of Bette Midler’s “The Wind Beneath My Wings.” Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie became emotional too.
We especially loved when Katy Perry took a moment to tell Graham’s mom, “Lorraine, we believe with you for tomorrow that you’ll be safe and protected and the angels are around you.”
“Your son is about to sing for us, and we want you to be a part of this moment,” Perry added before she turned the camera around.
Graham said his mom is his “best friend,” his “rock,” his “American Idol.” Our hearts are with this mother and son who clearly love each other so much.
Thankfully, it looks like two of Graham’s prayers were answered. Not only did he make it through to Hawaii, but it looks like Lorraine is recovering from surgery.
View this post on Instagram
Showed up at my mothers house with the cameras ? shoutout to @wmar2news watch the news to see it
“@Thisismeechi, we’re so glad your mama made it through,” Luke Bryan tweeted. Katy Perry also tweeted her sentiments and wrote, “’I’m so glad your momma is better @Thisismeechi.”
We’re grateful too, and look forward to seeing wonderful things from Graham and the other contestants as the season continues.
Truth and Accuracy
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.
