“He’s A Dad of 6 Adopted Kids… Then Sang a Bee Gees Song For Every Child 😭“, the clip is a deeply heartwarming narrative of love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of a chosen family. The audition, which took place during the 2018 season of AGT, moved not only the audience to tears but also prompted a rare display of emotion from judge Simon Cowell, culminating in the prestigious Golden Buzzer.
The Man and His Mission: Michael Ketterer 👨👩👧👦
Michael Ketterer is a pediatric mental health nurse and a part-time worship leader, originally from East Tennessee but living in Orange County, California. While he had previously pursued music, releasing five records and dedicating ten years to being an artist, he admits that he had to “lay down” his musical dreams when his children came into his life, choosing to prioritize fatherhood. His appearance on the AGT stage was an effort to pursue his dream and show his children that anything is possible.
However, his main purpose was far more profound: he wanted to use the platform to shine a national spotlight on the critical needs within foster care and pediatric mental health. He believes that when light is shone on him, it is truly shone on the children and the stigma surrounding mental health.
A Family Built on Love and Dreams ✨
The most striking part of Michael’s story is his family. He and his wife, Ivey, have a biological daughter, Sophie, and have adopted five boys from the foster care system, making him a devoted father of six. The decision to adopt came after his wife had complications during the birth of their first daughter. Following this, his daughter, Sophie, began having repetitive dreams about three young boys, which prompted the couple to open their hearts to adoption.
Their beautiful and challenging journey began by adopting three brothers—Jared, Chase, and Jeriah—from foster care. They later adopted Sean, who had experienced homelessness, and then Rodrigo (Rody), a 9-year-old boy with cerebral palsy. Rodrigo’s condition was a result of severe physical abuse, which was supposed to leave him blind, mute, and unable to form relationships. Yet, the Ketterer family witnessed a miracle: Rodrigo can now see, eat, love, and is even learning to walk. Michael found a unique way to communicate with Rodrigo through song and rhythm, which further cemented the family’s powerful connection to music. His wife gushed that Michael is the kind of man who would share the spotlight to inspire others with his love for his children.
The Performance and the Golden Buzzer Moment 🎶
For his audition, Michael Ketterer performed a powerful and soulful rendition of the Bee Gees classic, “To Love Somebody”. The performance was raw with emotion, not just a song but a heartfelt dedication to every one of his children, a musical testament to the unconditional love and hope that defines his family.
His voice and emotional delivery were so impactful that they immediately earned a standing ovation from the entire audience and judges. Judge Simon Cowell, known for his tough demeanor, was visibly moved. Cowell, in a moment of intense emotion, embraced Ketterer and reached for the Golden Buzzer, sending Michael straight to the live shows.
The Golden Buzzer is a significant honor, representing the judges’ belief that a contestant is so extraordinary they deserve an automatic pass to the live rounds. Cowell’s decision was a reflection of the extraordinary story, the powerful vocal performance, and the inspiring message that Michael Ketterer brought to the stage. Michael was deeply touched by the moment, especially receiving a hug from Cowell. He acknowledged the significance of the moment, noting that his dream was not only for a chance at a career but for a home, particularly one that would be handicap accessible for his son Rodrigo.
This audition is not just about singing; it’s a powerful, tearful reminder of the incredible dedication of a father and the boundless strength of love that transcends biological ties, proving that family is truly defined by the heart ❤️.
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