AGT Judge Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Secrets! You Won’t Believe What He Said!

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The 20th season of ‘America’s Got Talent’ is set to begin, promising an extraordinary journey. As judge Howie Mandel hints, this isn’t merely creating a television program; it’s crafting a memorable experience.

In the spirit of Forrest Gump’s famous quote, America’s Got Talent (AGT) isn’t just like any ordinary box of chocolates; it’s full of surprises! Each season, we see a diverse array of talents, ranging from musicians and magicians to comedians, contortionists, dance groups, sword swallowers, adorable dog acts, and people donning peculiar costumes. Every corner brings something new and unexpected. This year, the excitement level is heightened as AGT returns on NBC on May 27th.

Mandel states that our show doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves due to the grandeur in which we present ‘epic’ moments. He compares this to events like the Grammys or the Academy Awards where they have impressive presentations. On ‘AGT’, every performance is given the same grand treatment, even for someone as ordinary as a 75-year-old housewife who has never attempted poetry before, and is performing upside down on one foot while setting her umbrella on fire.

Since the show isn’t confined to a specific “singing competition” format, as explained by showrunner Sam Donnelly, the creative possibilities are endless. He notes, “We can utilize any part of the theater. We can stage acts outdoors. We can do whatever we want! It’s such a broad canvas that keeps things interesting and prevents us from feeling boxed in. ‘Surprise’ is a crucial aspect of this show, ensuring that the audience remains genuinely intrigued about what might happen next.

This season, Mel B takes her seat once more at the judge’s panel, a position she held during Seasons 8-13; she steps in for Heidi Klum who is returning to “Project Runway”, where she served as host from 2004 to 2017.

Mel B and I have a playful rivalry, constantly teasing each other, but it’s always fun,” Mandel explains. “We carry this dynamic both on and off the stage or show. Sofia (Vergara), she’s authentic – what you see is exactly who she is. There’s no act; that might be the only unstaged aspect of us. We truly are who we are, and our genuine thoughts, feelings, and disagreements are very real.

Donnelly doesn’t pause before expressing to Mandel that the judges’ panel for Season 20 is her favorite of all time. “It’s such a pleasure to witness the camaraderie among you,” she remarks. “It truly feels like a ‘positive vibe panel,’ and you clearly know your stuff, which sets you apart,” she adds. “Moreover, you all get along wonderfully. It’s as if you’re one big genuine family — not a troubled family, a real family.

This season, an authentic attempt has been made to convey the atmosphere of being present on audition days. The team has put in a tremendous amount of effort to make viewers feel as if they’re either contestants or spectators at ‘America’s Got Talent’, according to Donnelly. He believes that this season does justice to this feeling more than any other, and there’s an undeniable joy about the show. Even being physically present on those days is exciting, and this year, in our 20th anniversary, we’ve managed to capture that essence like never before.

Mandel, who’s been a loyal viewer since the very first episode, feels that this current season elevates “AGT” to a whole new level.

Celebrating our 20th anniversary feels extraordinarily significant. Being privy to such a unique perspective, it’s not just enjoyable – it’s profoundly moving and thrilling,” he expresses. “It offers not just visual and auditory stimulation, but a range of emotional experiences, tapping into our humanity and sensitivity. In these times more than ever in my lifetime, we yearn for an escape. This is the ideal refuge, where joy abounds and we unite the world, we connect humanity. We boast the finest crew, the most gifted performers, and the greatest production on the planet.

America’s Got Talent” is truly captivating TV, not only because of the diverse array of skills on display, but also due to the heartwarming personal stories shared by the contestants. These tales reveal their aspirations and struggles, connecting deeply with viewers. Often, they seek a bit of motivation or guidance.

As a supporter, I can’t help but be captivated by the diverse talent showcased on “AGT.” However, what truly sets it apart is the heartfelt sharing of contestants’ dreams and personal journeys, which often include tales of life challenges or obstacles they’ve faced. Many times, these individuals just need a bit of encouragement or guidance to keep moving forward.

In approximately 30 seconds, we’ll be posing a question to them. You understand, who are they? Where do they come from? What does this all mean to them?” Mandel explains. “Once they grasp the essence of it, and when you realize that they are just another human being, much like any one of us, standing there with everything they have riding on this moment, you can see the tension, the hope, the fear in their expressions, in the audience’s anticipation, and our own hopes that it will be good and we’ll achieve what we came for. It’s just incredible and vividly alive, like nothing else, the energy and excitement that ‘AGT’ generates.

Regardless if you’re already hooked on “America’s Got Talent” or new to the show, Season 20 offers an excellent introduction. Mandel captures it perfectly: “It’s a thrilling escape of entertainment – an opportunity to momentarily step away from everyday worries such as news, work, and life’s burdens for two hours each week with your family, whether you’re young or old. You’ll witness dreams unfold and soar to heights you’ve never seen before on ‘America’s Got Talent’s’ 20th anniversary celebration.

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2025-05-27 20:24