Filipino contestant Sephy Francisco blew away judges and audiences in the South Korean game show “I Can See Your Voice”.
The language barrier was no problem for the Korean audience who recognized her talent, as the transwoman performed “The Prayer”— taking both Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion’s parts.
She gave her rendition in the pilot episode of the show’s fifth season where contestants from different countries showcased their vocals.
Francisco impressed celebrity guest boy band Block B, Super Junior’s Leeteuk and Shindong, and singer and TV personality Kim Jong-kook, among others; many were left with their mouths gaping in shock.
She shared that she had “many firsts” in her stint as it was the first time she had a passport and a visa to travel out of the country. Francisco became emotional when she revealed that her vocal talent enables her to provide for her family who used to be “very, very poor.”
“I really want to pursue my dreams to be a singer and to inspire others,” she said.
The video has since hit number one on trending in YouTube Philippines, with over 1.3 million views since it was posted on Jan. 26.
The hit show has inspired a Filipino franchise hosted by Luis Manzano, where Francisco also competed last October 2017.
Though she was eliminated in both contests, she announced on Facebook that she will try her luck next on the United Kingdom talent show “X Factor”. Niña V. Guno/JB
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