Jackson McCarthy: Youth Division, Third Place 

Words by Carmen Macri 

I think the world just found its fifth Beatle in Jackson McCarthy. Not only does his name fit the bill, but he looks the part too. With a killer mullet and a fresh suit and tie, the 11-year-old strutted onto the Clay County Star Search stage with a confidence well beyond his years.

Like the judges, we all expected a Morgan Wallen cover—then came “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles. And wow, did he deliver. McCarthy owned the stage, singing, dancing and keeping the crowd hooked from start to finish. He hit every note, sauntering across the stage like he’d been doing it for decades.

Despite his age, McCarthy has an old soul when it comes to music—his favorite band is Queen. He originally considered performing “Hey Jude” but opted for “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” thinking its upbeat energy would keep the crowd engaged. Safe to say, he made the right call.

“I just want to make people feel inspired,” McCarthy shared. “To see more and be more excited about life” 

This isn’t the first or the last contest he’s been in either. Earlier last year he found himself placing fourth in a “Best Mullet” competition, and the proof is in the pudding. I mean, that head of hair would make grown men jealous.