‘American Idol’ Judges Take A Gamble On Canadian Truck Driver, Olivier, After Powerful Performance Of Jelly Roll’s ‘Save Me’

A truck driver from Kedgwick, New-Brunswick named Olivier brought his talent all the way to American Idol, where he won over the judges with his cover of the chart-topping hit that earned Jelly Roll his third No.1, “Save Me.”

Donning a simple attire of a backwards cap, a white t-shirt and a pair of camo pants, the hopeful singer left his mark on the audition room using just his acoustic guitar and a set of powerful vocals. Olivier effortlessly captured the personal cry for help that Jelly Roll conveys in the lyrics, while also showcasing the authentic grit and power behind his voice that made judges Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood exchange impressed looks.

“I’m a lost cause/ Baby, don’t waste your time on me/ I’m so damaged beyond repair/ Life has shattered my hopes and my dreams,” he sang on the emotionally charged chorus.

This tune has made a major impact on Jelly Roll’s career since first appearing on his 2020 album, Self Medicated. He later recorded a collaborative version of the powerful storyline with fellow country music superstar, Lainey Wilson, that lives on his Whitsitt Chapel project. The song has gone on to be showcased live on a slew of major platforms and has also been recognized at many award shows.

Now, the song has the chance to impact the career of another artist that holds his own passion and dreams for his artistry.

Once Olivier wrapped up his impressive performance, the judges expressed a bit of hesitancy at first, noting that the 22-year-old might have some growing and maturing to do before the extent of his vocal abilities can really be shown. However, they each saw a lick of potential in Olivier that made them want to hear more.

Lionel Richie honestly shared, “One side of me wants to say, just hold him for a minute and let him kind of develop. But you’ve got a unique style that you can work with.”

Bryan helped Richie make his decision when he remarked, “You’re acting like you want to roll some dice there…”

Richie then confirmed, “I do, I do. It’s a yes for me.”

Both Bryan and Underwood followed suit saying, “I think I’m going to roll that dice too.”

Taking note of the lack of immediate reaction from the Canadian contestant, Underwood took the opportunity to practice her French. She hesitantly said, “Bienvenue à Hollywood,” which translates to “Welcome to Hollywood.”

Olivier commended the “I’m Gonna Love You” singer on her attempt, and after hearing Bryan try his hand at the foreign accent, he finally came to terms with the fact that the judges were sending him forward in the competition. With a look of pure shock on his face, he joined Lionel, Carrie and Luke in celebrating the news.

This stand-out audition took place on Sunday, March 30 during the final round of auditions for the 2025 season of American Idol. Fans can continue to watch Olivier’s journey unfold throughout the competition that continues Sunday nights on ABC. Next week, the golden ticket holders will tackle once of the most difficult parts of the competition show, Hollywood week.