Arts & Entertainment
Former ‘American Idol’ contestant returns to compete in drag
Ada Vox received three yes votes from the judges
Ada Vox on ‘American Idol’ (Screenshot courtesy of YouTube)
A former “American Idol” contestant returned to audition as their drag queen persona on Sunday night’s episode.
Adam Sanders first auditioned for the reality competition series in season 12 when he was 19 years old. Sanders was cut after making it to the top 50.
He shares that after appearing on TV he received hateful messages on social media about his sexuality and weight.
“I let it get to me in the wrong way. It killed me inside,” Sanders says.
He decided to reinvent himself as his drag alter ego, Ada Vox.
Vox sang “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals for her audition receiving praise from judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. However, before giving an answer Perry asks Vox if she’s ready to be a serious pop star.
“I’m not here to play with anybody. I’m here to chase my dreams and make them come true,” Vox replies.
Her audition ends with three yes votes and a golden ticket to Hollywood.
Watch Vox’s audition below.
https://youtu.be/ofdSsBKW6NU
Photos
PHOTOS: Shenandoah Valley Pride
LGBTQ celebration held at Turner Pavilion in Harrisonburg, Va.
The 2026 Shenandoah Valley Pride Festival was held at Turner Pavilion in Harrisonburg, Va. on Sunday, Sept. 20.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
Whitman-Walker Health held the 40th annual Walk and 5K to End HIV at Anacostia Park on Saturday, Sept. 19.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
Photos
PHOTOS: Wanda Alston Foundation Fall Reception
LGBTQ youth services organization honors Robert White, Japer Bowles, Washington Capitals
The Wanda Alston Foundation held its Fall Reception at the Penthouse Rooftop at The Wharf on Friday, Sept. 18. Honorees included D.C. Councilmember Robert White, Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs Japer Bowles, and the Washington Capitals. Rayceen Pendarvis served as the emcee and entertainment was provided by the Thomas Circle Singers.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
White House press pool pushes back after Trump bars three outlets
PHOTOS: Shenandoah Valley Pride
Long-time DignityUSA executive director announces retirement
PHOTOS: Walk and 5K to End HIV
PHOTOS: Wanda Alston Foundation Fall Reception
Gun reform is an LGBTQ rights issue
All the queer things to watch this fall
Parties, dinners, concerts and more on tap for fall nightlife
Jeremy Moss looks to bring LGBTQ advocacy from Lansing to Capitol Hill
