'American Idol' judges moved to tears by autisic man's brave performance

It was an emotional end to Sunday's American Idol, thanks to a brave performance by 28-year-old Sam Finelli. Sam has high-functioning autism and struggles to connect with people, which is why, outside of a few karaoke nights, Sam does not sing in public… that is until he stepped into the Idol audition room.

The judges loved Sam's raw performance of Kacey Musgraves's "Rainbow" so much that they gave him a standing ovation, which started the water works. "These are happy tears, I promise," Sam assured the judges. It was an emotional moment for everyone in the room, especially when Lionel Richie showered Sam with love and support. " I want you to know right now we are so proud of you, man," Lionel told him, before adding, "Sam, You were born enough. And your -- what we consider your handicap is your gift."

Before giving Sam their judgment, they brought in his mom so she could be there when they all sent him on to Hollywood.

Video Transcript

KATY PERRY: Brian has lost it. You're going to go ugly cry in the bathroom. Me too.

LIONEL RICHIE: [LAUGHS] Really crying.

[LAUGHTER]

- It was an emotional end to Sunday's "American Idol." Thanks to a brave performance by 28-year-old Sam Finnely. Sam has high functioning autism and struggles to connect with people, which is why outside of a few karaoke nights, Sam does not sing in public. That is until he stepped into the Idol audition room.

SAM FINNELY: (SINGING) Darling, I'm just trying to tell you that there's always been a rainbow hanging over your head.

- The judges loved Sam's raw performance of Kacey Musgraves' "Rainbow" so much that they gave him a standing ovation, which started the waterworks.

SAM FINNELY: [CRIES]

LIONEL RICHIE: Sam, you OK?

SAM FINNELY: I'm good, yeah. These are happy tears.

[LAUGHTER]

I promise.

[LAUGHTER]

- It was an emotional moment for everyone in the room, especially when Lionel Richie showered Sam with love and support.

LIONEL RICHIE: I want you to know right now we are so proud of you, man.

SAM FINNELY: Thank you.

LIONEL RICHIE: OK?

SAM FINNELY: I was too afraid to audition.

LIONEL RICHIE: Sam, you were born enough. And your, what we consider-- your handicap is your gift. You understand me? You are enough.

- And after they brought in Sam's mom to add a few more happy tears out of the room, they gave him the good news.

LIONEL RICHIE: My first words are yes.

- Some people wait a lifetime--

KATY PERRY: Rainbow over your head, yes.

- For a moment like this.

LUKE BRYAN: Yes.

- Some people stay forever--

ALL: You're going to Hollywood.

[APPLAUSE]

SAM FINNELY: Thank you, guys.

- --for that one special kiss.