When viewers tuned into the February 28 audition episode of American Idol, they were introduced to 25-year-old Samantha Sharpe. While this is her first time appearing on TV, viewers may have seen Samantha (and her family) elsewhere, even though she's not as famous as controversial contestant Claudia Conway. Prior to her appearance on the show, she had a rather high profile. In fact, she's a TikTok sensation.
Samantha, who is from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, is part of a musical family. Both her parents used to appear on Broadway, and her three brothers are singers. The family has an account on the social media platform TikTok, and the Sharpes' covers of popular songs have gone viral. She may end up being ranked one of the show's best singers, and she loves singing with her family, but Samantha stated during her Idol audition that she wants to focus on a solo career.
While Samantha hasn't found major fame through her music career, she has recorded multiple solos for Sesame Street and sang on Broadway's A Tale Of Two Cities cast album. It's true that these recordings are impressive accomplishments, but Samantha is mostly well-known due to her families' TikTok Page, @SharpeFamilySingers. The family account currently has just over five million followers, so the family does have a ton of fans. There are many videos featured on the TikTok page, but not all of them are covers of songs, as the Sharpes also do comedy skits.
Along with these highlights, America Idol fans should know that Samantha and her family released their debut album in November 2020. It is called A Sharpe Family Christmas. The album includes famous Christmas songs, and Samantha does a "Silent Night" solo which is really fun to listen to. She has also posted her performances on her family's YouTube channel.
This season of American Idol is like no other due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Viewers don't know how Hollywood Week or the live shows are going to turn out, but one thing is certain. Viewers will see Samantha back on their screens during Hollywood Week. They will have to watch the singing competition unfold to see whether or not the show's famous judges let her move forward after the Hollywood Week round. It seems like she is a force to be reckoned with, but anything can (and does) happen on American Idol.
American Idol airs Sundays at 8pm EST on ABC.