I have never watched a single episode of American Idol before this season started. I always figured I was just too cool for Idol, not that I looked down on those who did like the show. When the show first kicked off I was just finishing my last semester in college, and I just didn’t have time to invest in reality television because a lot of my classes were at night.

This is the first season I actually sat down and watched from the beginning, and like some kind of drug, I am now addicted. Watching these people reach for the stars has been gripping. Of course, the ones who are just vying for their fifteen-minutes of fame balance the emotional aspect with a little humor, and who doesn’t like watching Simon Cowell say things out loud most of us would just keep to ourselves?

There has been some pretty amazing talent on the show so far this season.

As the elimination rounds continue to weed out those without true star potential, those of us who gather have already started to pick and choose who will go on to the become the next American Idol.

My prediction? Andrew Garcia. This guy has an amazing talent to take songs and make them his own. During the first night of Hollywood eliminations he was by far the most intense talent to take the stage. Performing a unique version of Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up,” every judge at the table was beyond amazed, and so was I.

Garcia touched me as a viewer during his audition, not only when he performed “Sunday Morning” but when they shared his story as well. Struggling to make a good life for himself and his family amidst the high-strung gang atmosphere of Los Angeles, grasping for the threads of a dream are his only hope. With a little boy to take care of, this one chance at stardom could afford him the opportunity to get his family away from the dangerous lifestyle brewing all around them.

Every “Idol” hopeful has their story, and while they are all designed to be touching, not every touching story has the talent it takes to climb the ladder to the stars. Amazingly talented, and already capturing the hearts of viewers, here’s hoping Garcia’s climb toward success is not too steep. This guy deserves a break!