Team Recycled, a 42-member modern dance troupe blending breakdancing and synchronized routines, earned a Golden Buzzer on NBC’s America’s Got Talent (AGT) Tuesday night, propelling them directly to the Final stage of the competition. The performance captivated the audience and judges, with Howie Mandel promptly awarding the coveted buzzer.
The Golden Buzzer eliminates the need for Team Recycled to compete in subsequent rounds of voting,guaranteeing them a spot among the twelve finalists vying for a $1 million prize and the title of AGT champion. This season marks the show’s 20th anniversary, and the stakes are high as seven performers will be eliminated Wednesday evening, September 10, following America’s vote.
Mandel expressed initial disappointment with the evening’s acts, stating he was “looking for an act that would step it up,” someone with “the magic to win the whole thing.” He declared Team Recycled fulfilled that criteria,exclaiming,”I thought to myself,can they do it? And the answer is yes!” before hitting the buzzer.
The troupe’s performance elicited a standing ovation from three of the judges, though Sofía Vergara remained seated. Following the buzzer, tears and hugs erupted among the team members as confetti filled the studio.
The Top 12 will perform on Tuesday, September 16, competing for seven remaining positions in the Final. These positions will be determined by a combination of the Semifinal Golden Buzzer, America’s votes, and the four Quarterfinal Golden Buzzer Acts.
Viewers can watch Team Recycled’s performance here: [link to YouTube video].
