Over the years, American Idol has become known for some of the most unforgettable performances — but none have been quite like Julia Davo’s audition. At 20 years old, she’s made it her goal to become a rock star. She makes this clear in her song choice of Life on Mars? by David Bowie. Although she’s never auditioned for American Idol before, her roommate, Alyssa Raghu, certainly has!

In fact, Alyssa auditioned in 2018 but was turned down. Then, in 2019, she became one of the show’s Top 8 contestants. It’s no wonder, then, why she was just outside of the audition room in order to support her friend. Unfortunately, despite getting some great feedback from the judges, only Lionel Richie gave Julia a “yes.” This is when things take an unexpected turn…

Alyssa is invited into the room and, for a moment, they catch up. Though, Alyssa’s first focus is on expressing her sadness over her friend not making it on the show. Soon enough, though, the former contestant asks if she can sing for them just for fun. They agree, and she delivers an amazing rendition of My All by Mariah Carey.

Blown away by how much Alyssa has grown, the singer takes her chance and asks if she can have a spot on the show this season.

Former American Idol Contestant Alyssa Raghu Makes an Unexpected Appearance in Friend Julia Davo’s Audition

While Luke Bryan and Richie are down to bring Alyssa back, Katy Perry calls the events a “really weird plot twist” before stepping away from the table. Many fans of the show have expressed they feel the same way as Perry, noting that Alyssa took Julia’s spotlight.

This is something that Alyssa seemingly addresses in an Instagram post. Here, she shares that she very much fought on her friend’s behalf to get her on the show, something that was edited out.

“Definitely a bittersweet moment,” Alyssa writes. “What they didn’t show was me constantly begging Julia to come on the show with me, but unfortunately the judges said no … [a] huge thank you to Julia for true friendship and incredible memories.”