Austyns Stancil has emerged as a frontrunner on season 26 of The Voice, and his late father has a lot to do with it. The 34-year-old Oakland, California native dedicated his four-chair Blind Audition performance of Smokey Robinson’s “Ooo Baby Baby” to his dad. After an epic face-off against fellow Team Gwen Stefani member Jose Luis, Stancil again found himself up for grabs. In a rare move, all three remaining coaches — Michael Bublé, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg — smashed their Steal buttons for the chance to snatch up Stancil.
Videos by American Songwriter
After landing on Team Snoop for the Knockouts, Stancil delivered yet another scintillating performance of “Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross. And if viewers’ tears were votes, he would be headed straight to the Playoffs.
‘The Voice’ Star Dedicates Another Knockout Performance to His Late Father
The Three-Way Knockouts have returned to The Voice, meaning each coach will put one artist through to the Playoffs and send at least one home. Coaches Snoop Dogg, Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani and Reba McEntire will each get one Save to keep an extra Knockout member on their team. They will also get one Steal.
Snoop Dogg has a weighty decision ahead of him during Monday’s (Nov. 11) episode. Squaring off against Christina Eagle and Jake Tankersley, Austyns Stancil gave us an absolutely flawless rendition of Luther Vandross’ soulful 2003 hit.
Stancil’s father was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2021, eventually losing his battle in 2023.
“My dad showed me how to be a man and how to be a father. I wish he was here to see me now,” he said before his Blind Audition. “I know my dad would give me props right now because honestly, my whole life, I’ve just been trying to make him proud.”
Austyns Stancil Receives Praise From an Unlikely Source
Just like Stancil, Christina Eagle and Jake Tanksersley are also hoping to continue their dream on The Voice. Still, Tankersley clearly isn’t above giving credit where credit is due.
“Austyns is making me tear up AGAIN! So freakin good man,” the Sand Springs, Oklahoma-raised artist wrote in a YouTube comment. “Christina, you are a powerhouse. I’m so honored to have shared the stage with y’all and not only that but call you friends.”
Featured image via Austyns Stancil/Instagram
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.