America's Got Talent
Just a man and his will to survive … and make it to next week’s America’s Got Talent finals.
On Wednesday’s semifinal episode of AGT, fan-favorite singer Richard Goodall proved just how much he wanted to stay in the competition by choosing to cover the ultimate fighting song: Survivor‘s “Eye of the Tiger,” the theme from Rocky III.
He rose to the occasion of the classic track — a six-week No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982 — by squeezing every ounce of drama out of it, opting for a slowed-down a cappella intro before forging into the famous chorus with a full band behind him. Fiery graphics and pyrotechnics lit up the stage behind him as the 55-year-old singer nailed Jim Peterik’s sky-high vocal riffs for the pumped-up crowd.
And it worked: We learned on Thursday night’s (Sept. 12) episode that Goodall is one of six contestants moving forward to next week’s finals, before the season 19 AGT winner is crowned Sept. 24.
The judges were in the palm of Goodall’s hand following his Survivor cover, with Simon Cowell saying, “There’s something ironic about the fact that you’ve chosen a real underdog song, and you are like the underdog in a way, but in a really positive way. And it was like you just got to the top of the steps,” he said, referencing Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky running up the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art stairs. “I love that!”
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Sofia Vergara added, “I love that you picked such an iconic song. The people love you. It was amazing. I’m so happy for you. Enjoy this,” while Howie Mandel praised Goodall’s warmth throughout this season: “I’m pumped but not as big as the heart this guy has. You have the biggest heart in this whole competition. We feel the love, and we love you.”
But no one was more pumped up than Heidi Klum, who simply asked Goodall after the song: “Are you kidding me right now? Epic performance. I thought that you could not top what you did last time, but you topped it. America, you have to vote for Richard!”
America clearly listened, and you can catch Goodall on next week’s final performance episode, airing Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
Watch Goodall’s “Eye of the Tiger” performance below:
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Pranysqa Mishra, a 10-year-old singing sensation from Tampa, Fla., delivered a jaw-dropping rendition of Miley Cyrus’ hit “Wrecking Ball” during the quarterfinals of America’s Got Talent‘s 19th season.
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Known for earning Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer earlier in the season, Mishra once again proved why she is a standout contender in her latest showstopping performance on Sept. 3.
Taking on the emotionally charged ballad, Mishra performed with grace and maturity beyond her years, drawing rave reviews from the judges. “You didn’t have a drummer or bass to hide behind. It was just you and the piano,” Heidi Klum told her. “You did it so amazingly. Congratulations.”
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Simon Cowell was also blown away by Mishra’s talent, saying, “You sounded amazing, seriously. Your potential is really exciting.”
Howie Mandel added, “You’re 10 years old, but you have the talent of someone who’s been performing for decades.”
The young singer’s journey has been remarkable. Mishra has performed the American national anthem at major sporting events, including the Miami Heat vs. Utah Jazz NBA game and the NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament.
Her AGT performance, however, pushed her into new territory, taking on a Miley Cyrus anthem that was no easy feat.
The judges all stood in awe of her rendition. Sofia Vergara called it “breathtaking,” and said, “You deserve for everybody to vote tonight for you.” Mandel praised her, saying, “You could win this whole thing.”
Mishra humbly responded, “I’m so blessed to sing on this world’s biggest stage in front of the beautiful audience.”
“Wrecking Ball,” originally performed by Miley Cyrus, became a pop culture sensation when it topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks in 2013 and has received over a billion views on YouTube.
The pint-sized powerhouse’s journey on AGT continues, with fans eagerly watching her next steps in the competition. Check out her performance below.
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Dee Dee Simon made a lasting impression during the Quarterfinals of America’s Got Talent 2024 with her high-energy performance of “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims.
The Oakland nurse, who has been balancing her day job with her passion for music, delivered a standout performance on Aug. 27 that not only had the judges on their feet but also earned her a direct ticket to the finals thanks to Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer.
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From the start, Dee Dee brought an exciting energy to the stage as she wowed the crowd with her vocal brilliance. Halfway through the song, she kicked off her shoes, letting the moment take over as she poured her heart into the performance. The judges couldn’t help but take notice.
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“You knocked your shoes off. You knocked my shoes off,” Howie Mandel said, nodding to Dee Dee’s spontaneous decision to perform barefoot. “You made the song your own, and you were amazing.”
Simon Cowell, never one to hold back his opinion, was hugely impressed by the powerhouse performance, saying, “This is what it’s all about—someone who isn’t a full-time singer seizes the moment and shows the world who they are. Dee Dee, I think you’ve got a real shot at winning this competition.”
Sofia Vergara, clearly impressed, added, “This was your lane, and you took control of it. This performance topped your audition—you’re a star tonight.”
But it was Heidi Klum who sealed the deal. “Dee Dee, your voice has such a rich tone, and you look stunning tonight. But I felt like something was missing—like a sparkly belt, a sparkly ring, something gold,” Klum said, just before she hit the Golden Buzzer, sending the singer straight to the finals amid a shower of golden confetti.
“My stomach was talking to me, and you were the best tonight—you’re amazing!”
As the confetti fell, Dee Dee stood in disbelief, thanking the crowd and the judges. “Oh my God, thank you so much, America. I love you.”
“Lose Control,” the song Dee Dee performed, has been a major hit for Teddy Swims. The track debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2023 and climbed to No. 1 in March this year. It would go on to stay on the chart for a whopping 54 weeks.
The competition may be tough, but with this performance and the Golden Buzzer, Dee Dee Simon has positioned herself as a serious contender for the AGT 2024 title.
Watch Dee Dee Simon’s Golden Buzzer performance in the America’s Got Talent Quarterfinals below.
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America’s Got Talent Season 19 reached a dramatic peak on Aug. 20 when Japanese dance and acrobatic group Airfootworks delivered a performance that ignited a heated response from the judges.
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The group’s gravity-defying routine set off a friendly clash between Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel, culminating in an unprecedented double Golden Buzzer moment (kind of).
As Airfootworks concluded their intricate and masterfully executed performance, which was set to “Celestial” by Ed Sheeran, Simon exclaimed, “Terry, I am just about to get myself fired,” before lunging for the Golden Buzzer.
However, Howie, who was officially assigned the buzzer for the night, quickly intervened. In a split-second move, Mandel pressed the buzzer just before Cowell could, securing Airfootworks a direct path to the finals.
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The ensuing moment was filled with lighthearted chaos, as both judges vied for credit. A video replay confirmed that Mandel had narrowly outpaced Cowell to the buzzer.
“I feel like I’ve been abused!” Mandel quipped, as the two exchanged playful banter over who deserved the accolade.
Mandel then joined Airfootworks on stage to personally commend them, saying, “You guys are athletes, you guys are dancers…you guys are magicians. I don’t know how you do it, but what you just did was absolutely brilliant.”
Cowell, still reveling in the moment, admitted, “I just couldn’t help myself! It was such an amazing performance that I felt like I had to be a part of it.” He added, “This is what this show is all about—finding acts like this that are truly world-class.”
This season, Cowell has already caused a stir by awarding a second Golden Buzzer to Sky Elements during the auditions, a move that led to all judges receiving an extra buzzer push.
With Airfootworks now fast-tracked to the finals, the remaining contestants from the night face an uphill battle as they compete for one of the three remaining spots through audience voting. The stakes are significant, and the competition is fierce.
The results of this live show will be unveiled during a special episode on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC. Viewers will learn which acts will advance alongside Airfootworks, moving one step closer to the ultimate victory.
Check out Airfootworks earn a Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent below.
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In a season already brimming with talent, 9-year-old Journeyy stepped into the spotlight of America’s Got Talent on Tuesday night (July 23) and delivered a performance that left both judges and the audience deeply impressed.
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“I just didn’t expect that me recording videos at my house would lead to me being here right now. When I grow up, I want to be a pop singer,” Journeyy said in a backstage interview ahead of his performance according to NBC.
Performing his own original song “Paradise,” the New Jersey native wowed the crowd with not just exceptional songwriting skills but also an incredible stage presence and vocal ability that belied his young age.
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As he began to play the opening notes of “Paradise,” the room fell into a hushed anticipation. His voice, soulful and rich, had a haunting quality reminiscent of Lana Del Rey, drawing listeners into his imaginative world of “purple clouds” and “automatic lullabies”.
The judges’ reactions were unanimously positive. Heidi Klum was the first to speak, telling Journeyy, “I’m very impressed by you. Nine years old, your parents must be super proud of you. I’m proud of you. I hope you’re proud of yourself. Very well done, you have a beautiful voice.” Journeyy’s parents and sister stood in the wings, wiping tears away and nodding in agreement.
Sofia Vergara, clearly moved, stated, “I love you,” prompting a giant grin from the young talent.
“I think this season we have so many cool kids. Super cool kids, you’re one of them,” she enthused. Howie Mandel, always ready with a quip, joked, “A long time ago, I was nine years old for almost a year, and I think you’re amazing.”
Simon Cowell, often the toughest critic, was full of praise. “You’ve just got it, haven’t you? I love hearing people write their own material. It’s a glimpse into who you are, and I really like you. Great things are going to happen to you. I can feel it.” He added, “You are somebody who has a God-given talent. And it’s rare.”
The impressive performance not only earned him a standing ovation but also four enthusiastic “yes” votes from the judges, securing his place in the next round.
Journeyy’s path to “America’s Got Talent” was not just a lucky break. Simon Cowell revealed that one of his friends had discovered Journeyy’s talent online and recommended him to the show.
“A couple of days ago, ‘You’ve got to see this video.’ And it was you. Anyway, we sent the video to the production team and then we found out that they’d already found you,” Simon said.
Despite his young age, Journeyy has already garnered a significant social media following, where his viral cover of Hillsong United’s “Oceans” caught the attention of both fans and industry insiders, paving his way to the show.
Check out Journeyy’s America’s Got Talent performance below.
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In an episode filled with stunning acts, it was police officer Mervin Mayo from Richmond, VA., who truly stole the spotlight on America’s Got Talent.
His heartfelt rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” left the judges and audience alike in awe, earning him four enthusiastic yeses and a standing ovation.
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Mayo, who has dedicated his life to helping at-risk youth, shared a deeply personal story before his performance. He recounted his challenging upbringing in the housing projects of Richmond and how a police officer named Curtis Simmons saved him from a life of crime.
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“I’ve seen more murders as a child than I have as a police officer,” Mayo revealed. The experience inspired him to become a police officer and mentor to at-risk youth, working tirelessly for 17 years to provide the same guidance he once received.
With the encouragement of his wife Michelle, the director of school counseling for Richmond Public Schools, Mayo decided to take a leap of faith and audition for America’s Got Talent. His performance of “Thinking Out Loud” was more than just a song—it was a tribute to his wife and the journey they’ve shared.
As Mayo sang, he frequently glanced toward the wings where Michelle was watching proudly, adding a layer of genuine emotion to his performance.
His smooth, soulful voice captured the essence of Sheeran’s romantic ballad, and his heartfelt delivery resonated with everyone in the room.
The judges were visibly moved by Mayo’s story and performance. “You really do have a good voice and everything you did was sincere,” praised Simon Cowell. Sofia Vergara echoed these sentiments, saying, “You guys are a beautiful couple and your voice is spectacular. Super romantic, how beautiful that you love her and you’re singing to her.”
Howie Mandel commended the couple’s dedication to their community, saying, “You are the people that allow us to be safe and people who are in our school system. You are both serving the community and that’s a wonderful thing.”
Heidi Klum summed up the judges’ feelings, “You sounded great up there. You felt right at home. I felt the love. It was beautiful.”
Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” achieved major success on the Billboard charts. Released in 2014 as part of his album x (Multiply), the song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained in the top 10 for 23 weeks.
It also became the first song to spend a full year in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 40. As well as this, “Thinking Out Loud” topped the Billboard Adult Pop Songs chart and earned Sheeran two Grammy Awards in 2016 for song of the year and best pop solo performance. In his homeland, “Thinking Out Loud” logged two weeks atop the Official U.K. Singles Chart.
To see how Mayo progresses in the competition, tune in to America’s Got Talent on Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC, or catch it streaming the next day on Peacock.
Watch his full performance on America’s Got Talent below.
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When Reid Wilson, a 14-year-old singer from the heart of Alabama, stepped onto the America’s Got Talent stage, his nerves were palpable.
But as soon as he began belting out Lesley Gore’s 1963 hit “You Don’t Own Me,” those nerves vanished, replaced by a voice so powerful and a presence so magnetic that it left the judges and audience stunned.
“I am definitely nervous, but I am going to put my all into this and sing my heart out and try not to miss a note,” Wilson declared before his performance. And boy, did he deliver!
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His soulful, gritty rendition of the classic tune showcased not only his incredible vocal range but also his ability to pour his heart into every note.
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The judges were clearly taken aback by Wilson’s unexpected song choice and undeniable talent.
Simon Cowell couldn’t help but admit, “We weren’t expecting that.” Heidi Klum, visibly impressed, gushed, “I think you’re absolutely incredible. I loved when you took the mic off [the stand] and gave a little more stage presence. Well done.”
Simon added that his parents must have good musical taste, to which Reid quipped “no,” getting a laugh from the judges and the audience.
Sofia Vergara, who had initially been concerned about Wilson’s nerves, was thoroughly impressed: “You were so nervous at the beginning. I was, ‘He’s not going to be able to put his stuff together,’ but you did, and you did amazingly. It sounded spectacular from here.”
But it was Howie Mandel who had the most profound reaction to Wilson’s performance.
Visibly moved, Mandel shared, “I was bowled over because I was surprised. You know what? That stage is where dreams come true. Do you believe in dreams?”
When Wilson answered affirmatively, Howie pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending a shower of glittering confetti raining down on Wilson and his proud mother, who had rushed onto the stage to embrace her son in a moment of pure joy.
Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me” was a bold choice for the young singer.
The song, which peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964, has been a feminist anthem for decades. Written by John Madara and David White, it showcased Gore’s powerful voice and became one of her signature hits.
Gore, already famous for her hit song “It’s My Party,” recorded “You Don’t Own Me” when she was only 17 years old. It was later featured on her album Lesley Gore Sings of Mixed-Up Hearts.
Backstage, Mandel couldn’t stop raving about Wilson’s raw talent.
“I did it because of the sound and who you are was nothing close to anything I was expecting. You are a big talent,” he told the young singer, who was still trying to wrap his head around this life-changing moment.
For Wilson, whose musical hero is none other than the legendary Aretha Franklin, this is the opportunity of a lifetime.
“I would love to be the next superstar,” he confessed. “I sing at family gatherings every now and then but nothing big.”
Now, armed with a Golden Buzzer and a ticket to the live shows, Wilson has the chance to make that dream a reality.
Watch Reid Wilson perform Leslie Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me” on America’s Got Talent below.
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Country singer-songwriter Reyna Roberts made a grand impression on America’s Got Talent‘s Season 19 premiere on Tuesday night (May 28), when she performed her original song “Raised Right” (which she originally released in 2021) for her audition.
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America’s Got Talent judge Simon Cowell was clearly impressed by the performance, saying, “You’re not messing around, are you?” Robert quickly confirmed, “Not at all.”
Fellow judge Heidi Klum complimented Roberts on not only her talent, but also for her red leather ensemble, which matched her red hair. “I love when you really belt it out. I love when you hold the note,” Klum said. “I also love this look that you’re serving today. I love it.”
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Cowell also asked Roberts why she wanted to audition for the talent competition. “My dream has always been to be a superstar,” Roberts replied. “I want to create music that outlives me and hopefully that inspires other people and I feel like this is the moment that is going to become reality for me.”
Roberts, of course, is well on her way, having contributed to Beyoncé’s recent Billboard 200 chart-topper Cowboy Carter. Roberts performed on a version of the Beatles’ “Blackbird” (stylized “blackbiird” on Cowboy Carter), alongside Brittney Spencer, Tanner Adell and Tiera Kennedy, and on the song “Tyrant.”
Roberts has been showcasing her musical talent long before Beyoncé came calling. Roberts, born in Alaska and raised in California and Alabama, initially gained attention with her 2020 song “Stomping Grounds.” That same year, she moved to Nashville and shared a video of herself performing a cover of Carrie Underwood’s “Drinking Alone.” The performance drew praise from Underwood and Mickey Guyton. She released “Pretty Little Devils” in 2022 and teamed with Tayler Holder for “Another Round” in 2023. She issued her debut full-length project, Bad Girl Bible Vol. 1 in 2023. Earlier this year, Roberts got a boost from Queen Bey, who invited her to be part of Cowboy Carter.
Ultimately, Roberts received a triple yes from the America’s Got Talent judges, and will advance to the next round. A new crop of artists will audition on Tuesday, June 4, when the show airs at 7 p.m. CT on NBC and streams on Peacock.
Watch Roberts’s audition below:
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If every dog has its day, today very much belongs to Hurricane.
Hurricane, a Border Collie, and his human Adrian Stoica are the winners of the latest, 18th season of America’s Got Talent, their dog show capturing the hearts of the American public.
Magician Anna DeGuzman came second in the 2023 competition, announced Wednesday (Sept. 27), and dance troupe Murmuration came third.
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Indonesian singer Putri Ariani and acrobat duo the Ramadhani Brothers respectively round out the top 5.
The top ranked singer this year, Putri made a notable impression on the judges, particularly Simon Cowell, who gave the teen his Golden Buzzer. “Nobody can take away the fact that you are an amazing, amazing singer. And performer. And person,” Cowell told Ariani.
The judges also adored Stoica and Hurricane’s double-act, apparently as much as armchair voters.
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“I was on my feet then I sat down, then I was on my feet. It just shows you how tough it is,” Howie Mandel enthused earlier in the season, following an act to Smash Mouth’s “I’m a Believer.” “We didn’t know whether to stand, we didn’t know whether to sit. He’s a dog, he gets more cues than we do. That’s my favorite dog Act ever on AGT.”
Sofia Vergara though the dog-and-man show “was perfection” and Heidi Klum remarked, “it is mind blowing to me how you do this routine with him.”
Added Cowell earlier in the season: “I think in terms of stepping up from the audition to the Live Show, this is the best act we’ve seen tonight. This was live, and that was a tricky routine. She was amazing.”
Stoica and his canine buddy collect the $1 million prize and a coveted Las Vegas residency.
The two-hour finale on NBC featured special performances from 30 Seconds to Mars, Jason Derulo, Jon Batiste, Leona Lewis (in a duet with Putri) and Season 17 winners The Mayyas.
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Country music is hot right now, and Drake Milligan looks like a guy who’s making a real fist of it.
On Wednesday night (Sept. 13), the season 17 alum made his return to the America’s Got Talent stage, stared down the barrel of the camera and delivered a performance of “I Got A Problem,” an original song.
Wearing a white denim jacket with a red bandana, and wielding an acoustic guitar, Milligan’s performance was confident, polished. Slick even. He appeared right at home under the bright lights, a year on from his AGT podium finish.
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Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas, Milligan has quite the story to tell. He cut his showbiz teeth as an Elvis impersonator and enjoyed a deep run in the 2022 season, finishing third and placing top among all singers.
He followed his AGT stint the release of a 14-song collection, Dallas/Fort Worth, which features Milligan’s writer’s credit on every track. Billboard described the LP as “a steady mix of laid-back, ‘90s Strait inspired come-ons including ‘Save It For a Sunny Day’ and ‘Hating Everything She Tries On,’ the barroom burner ‘Tippin’ Point’ and ‘Long Haul,’ which finds Milligan incorporating an Elvis-esque vocal swagger.”
Earlier this year, Milligan and several members of his band were injured when his touring van crashed into a concrete median in the Lone Star State.
Based on his latest AGT appearance, Milligan has made a resounding recovery. The audience loved it, so too the did the four judges. At the end of the performance, everyone in the room was on their feet.
“Amazing, amazing, amazing, amazing,” was Simon Cowell’s initial response. Milligan is on the way to becoming a superstar, the Brit reckons. “That was amazing.” Cowell was adamant that AGT addicts haven’t seen the last of the crooner. Milligan, he hinted, might even find a spot in one of the upcoming all-star AGT spin-off series.
For the record, America’s votes were tallied, season 18 contestants Anna DeGuzman and Chibi Unity were saved. They progress through to the semis, alongside previously announced competitors Adrian Stoica & Hurricane, Lavender Darcangelo, Ahren Belisle, Murmuration, Mzansi Youth Choir and Putri Ariani.
Watch Milligan’s performance below.
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