Julia Sienna; Photo Courtesy of American Idol via ABC
Luke Bryan had never been arrested before, that was until Monday night, Feb. 16, when he was put in handcuffs for violating “Code Idol 26,” which apparently means giving out too many “No’s” on American Idol. Season 24 Idol hopeful Julia Sienna, a 21-year-old special police officer from Freehold, New Jersey, used her police powers and a pair of very real handcuffs to hold Bryan prisoner during her audition of “I Would” by British singer Connie Talbot.
With a straight face and perfect comedic timing, she locked one of country music’s biggest stars in and kept the key hidden as she showcased her vocal talents to persuade the judges to give her a “yes” and send her off to Hollywood.
The stunt could have easily overshadowed Sienna’s performance, but she made sure it didn’t. Her cheeky attitude, natural charisma, and stellar pop vocals proved more than enough to win the room over. By the time she finished singing, it was clear her audition was much more than just a funny moment; she was a serious contender who could win it all.
Sienna ultimately secured her place in the competition, even receiving loads of compliments from judge Carrie Underwood.
“I feel like you are such a fantastic representation of every woman,” Underwood said afterward. “You come in, you’re strong, you’re gorgeous, you have strength in your voice. And then you have these beautiful notes at the top that are very soft and pretty, and it’s all the things all wrapped into one. And I love that very much.”
Bryan, who suddenly seemed very motivated to hand out a golden ticket, was in a rush to get Sienna through to the next round, and more importantly, to get the handcuffs off of him. “I loved it. No, really, really great,” he said, half laughing and half pleading. “Now, can I see the key? ….I’m really ready to vote. Yes.”
Judge Lionel Richie also praised Sienna’s talent, making it clear that the performance stood on its own.
“I love your voice. You’ve got substance in there. You’ve got some natural abilities that you’re just working and not really aware that you’re doing it,” Richie commented.
“It’s a yes from me,” Underwood added, as she ushered Sienna to “release the prisoner,” before jokingly questioning, “Wait, are we sure we want to do this?”
Finally, with the votes in, Bryan was freed.
“With full mobility, welcome to Hollywood Week,” he said after becoming unshackled, officially sending the hopeful to the next phase of the competition.
Sienna didn’t miss a beat. In a separate clip at the end of her audition, she leaned fully into the bit.
“Hopefully, arresting Luke set him straight, and he will be willing to give everybody a yes as well. Ten four. This officer’s out. See you in Hollywood Week,” she joked.
Season 24 of American Idol airs new episodes on Mondays at 8/7c on ABC, with episodes also available to stream on Hulu. The season premiered on January 26, 2026, and if Sienna’s audition is any indication, viewers can expect plenty more standout moments!