Elijah McCormick headed to Hollywood after 'American Idol' audition brings judges to tears

There's never a shortage of amazing talent and inspiring stories on 'American Idol' and so far this season, North Carolina has been in the thick of it.

Idol hopeful Elijah McCormick who is from Raeford gave a tearful performance to judges Katy Perry, Lionel Ritchie and Luke Bryan Sunday, and took home the coveted golden ticket.

"The 'Golden Child' deserves the golden ticket," said Katy Perry.

Judges were wowed by Elijah's performance of "God Bless the Broken Road" by Rascal Flatts.

McCormick nearly lost his life in a head-on collision on June 8, 2019, only 3 hours after his high school graduation. The car he was in caught on fire after the crash.

He spent 79 days in the hospital enduring multiple surgeries, dialysis, a feeding tube, and relearning how to walk and talk.

McCormick said doctors told him he flatlined a total of nine times.

As soon as he could speak again, the first question he asked was "Mama, can I sing?"

The medical team at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill nicknamed Elijah "Golden Child" because the tips of his hair were dyed blond.

Elijah McCormick is one of those contestants that brings tears to your eyes and hope to your heart.

Last week after 15 tries, Ashley Tankard, of Durham, sang her way to a golden ticket.

You can watch Elijah's performance again, Monday on Hulu.

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