It’s been just over a week since 11-year-old guitar prodigy Olly Pearson stole the spotlight during the massive Bohemian Rhapsody flash mob in Paris and the response has been nothing short of spectacular.
The performance, featuring 30 musicians and singers led by pianist Julien Cohen and vocalist Mickey Callisto, has already racked up more than 12 million likes on Instagram and surpassed 191 million views across social media platforms.
For Olly, who first rose to fame on Britain’s Got Talent, the Paris flash mob has been a whirlwind experience and one that has left the Pearson family bursting with pride.
“Terror Turned Into Pride”
“Seeing him on stage in Paris, owning every note of Brian May’s solos, was beyond anything we imagined,” said his father, Simon Pearson. “At first, I was terrified leaving him to join the audience, but the moment he started playing, terror turned into pride. The way the crowd reacted, the energy in the streets — it was incredible. Olly’s talent truly speaks for itself.”
His mother, Sarah Pearson, agreed: “Everyone has been so kind to him, stopping him for selfies and compliments. We can’t thank the public enough for the love they’ve shown. Watching him light up the stage in Paris reminded us why we’ve always supported his dream.”
The Grandfather Who Sparked It All
Behind Olly’s remarkable journey is the bond with his grandfather, Lee Hughes, who first introduced him to the guitar. Speaking after the viral performance, Lee recalled:
“Olly saw a guy playing in the street and said, ‘I want to do that.’ I hadn’t played seriously in decades, but I picked up the guitar again. We started with 60s tunes together, and within two years, he had completely surpassed me. I didn’t really teach him — I just opened the door, and out it came.”
Lee smiled, adding: “Playing guitar with Olly is so much fun. You can see how much he enjoys it, and the bond we share is something truly special. Every grandparent dreams of moments like this, and I feel lucky to witness his journey.”
From BGT to Paris
Fans of Britain’s Got Talent will remember Olly’s earlier performances this year, where he made history by earning two golden buzzers in a single season. Judge Simon Cowell praised him: “You already have your own distinct sound, which normally takes decades to develop. You’re that good!” Fellow judge Amanda Holden declared: “Literally, a star is born.”
Those early moments set the stage for Paris, where Olly’s mastery of Queen’s iconic solos stunned both bystanders and millions online. Reflecting on the spectacle, Mickey Callisto admitted: “Never in a million years would I have thought I would be coming in on a horse and carriage in Paris singing Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Opportunities on the Horizon
The buzz from Paris is already opening new doors for the young guitarist. Multiple bands and music projects from around the globe have reached out, eager to collaborate. A major music production company has even contacted the family about a potential big deal — a rare opportunity for someone so young.
“It’s incredible to see so many doors opening for him,” Simon Pearson said. “He’s just 11, but the world is already taking notice. He’s been working hard, practicing every day, and now he’s starting to see what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.”
A Family Celebration
For the Pearsons, every step of Olly’s journey has been a family affair. His sister Heather said: “It’s amazing to see him achieve his dreams and still stay so humble. We’re all so proud of him.”
Grandparents Lee and Chris Hughes are equally thrilled. Lee added: “Being part of his journey, from the first guitar lesson to seeing him perform in Paris, is the proudest moment of my life. The joy on his face when he’s playing is unmatched and now the world can see it too.”
Olly himself kept it simple on social media, writing: “Working with such amazing musicians was a privilege. Queen — Bohemian Rhapsody… Paris. Enough said.”
