Jessica Sanchez, the powerhouse vocalist who captured hearts as the runner-up on American Idol Season 11, has experienced a romantic journey that has evolved from a youthful, public relationship to a private, enduring marriage. Her path through the spotlight has seen her navigate the complexities of dating in the public eye, ultimately finding a partner who offers steadfast support and a shared future.
Her first publicly confirmed romance blossomed shortly after her rise to fame on American Idol. In July 2012, Sanchez confirmed she was dating fellow Season 11 finalist DeAndre Brackensick. The news emerged during a UStream chat where the then 16-year-old Sanchez, after teasing fans, revealed, "He's my boyfriend. Love you guys. Byeeee!" Brackensick, who was 17 at the time, also confirmed the relationship on Twitter, stating, "Me and Jessica are officially dating:). Yes Jessica is my girlfriend:)."
This youthful connection, formed during their shared experience on the reality singing competition and the subsequent American Idols Live! Tour, garnered significant media attention. Fans and media alike were charmed by the budding romance between the two talented teenagers. While the exact duration of their relationship was not extensively publicized, it appears to have been a brief but notable chapter in Sanchez's early career, as public reports of their coupling primarily surfaced in 2012.
Years later, Jessica Sanchez found a deeper, more private connection. She met Rickie Gallardo in 2017. Gallardo, a lighting technician and show producer, crossed paths with Sanchez when he was working at one of her concerts. Their initial encounter sparked a profound connection, with Gallardo reportedly sending her an Instagram message stating, "I'm gonna marry you one day," a sentiment that would eventually come true.
Their relationship developed away from the constant glare of the public eye, built on mutual respect, shared values, and unwavering support. Sanchez and Gallardo married in 2021, with reports indicating their wedding took place in April 2021 at a church in Texas. This commitment marked a significant turning point in Sanchez's personal life, which she has described as transformative. She has publicly shared that marriage to Gallardo has "really calmed me down" and given her a "deeper sense of purpose," attributing much of her personal growth to his influence.
Gallardo's supportive presence has been a driving force not only in her personal life but also in her career. He is noted for fully supporting her artistic endeavors and encouraging her creative projects. Their bond reflects a strong, loving partnership, characterized by mutual respect, shared faith, and artistic collaboration.
Most recently, in July 2025, during her return to the America's Got Talent stage, Jessica Sanchez made a joyous public announcement: she and Rickie Gallardo are expecting their first child. This news, shared during an emotional performance, highlighted the continued evolution of her personal life and her rediscovered passion for music. Sanchez revealed she had kept the pregnancy private for five months, expressing, "Our hearts are so full." The couple's journey together, from a chance meeting to building a family, underscores a period of stability and profound happiness for the singer, marking a mature and fulfilling chapter in her romantic history.