America’s Got Talent Season 17 Qualifiers 5: The Ultimate Battle for a Spot in the Finals

The stage was set, the pressure was immense, and the dreams of eleven extraordinary acts hung in the balance as America’s Got Talent Season 17 entered its thrilling final round of qualifiers. This was the last chance for these hopefuls to impress judges Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara, along with the millions of viewers at home, and secure a coveted spot in the grand finals. Throughout the season, audiences have been treated to a diverse array of talent, from breathtaking singers and dynamic dancers to astonishing magicians and death-defying daredevils. As the fifth and final group took to the stage, the stakes had never been higher, promising a night filled with unforgettable performances, unexpected critiques, and emotional moments. Some acts rose to the occasion, delivering performances that solidified their potential, while others struggled under the immense spotlight, making the judges’ and America’s choices incredibly difficult.

Kicking off this pivotal night was singer Kristen Cruz, whose powerful voice has captivated audiences since her initial audition. For her qualifiers performance, Kristen chose to tackle a challenging rendition of Miley Cyrus’s hit song, “Nothing Breaks Like A Heart.” Her performance was undeniably passionate, showcasing her impressive vocal range and raw emotion. However, it also sparked a lively debate among the judging panel, highlighting the fine line between raw talent and polished performance in such a high-stakes competition.

Simon Cowell, ever the meticulous critic, acknowledged Kristen’s “great country voice” but expressed his belief that she had chosen the “wrong song” for the evening. He felt that despite her “amazing voice,” she was “screaming the song,” suggesting that the performance lacked nuance and control in places. This critique often weighs heavily on contestants, as Simon’s eye for marketable talent is unparalleled. However, Heidi Klum vehemently disagreed with her fellow judge, praising Kristen’s intensity by calling her performance “ferocious, but I love it.” Heidi appreciated the unbridled power and conviction Kristen brought to the stage, seeing it as a strength rather than a flaw. Howie Mandel’s opinion leaned closer to Heidi’s, as he voiced his admiration for the “rawness” in Kristen’s voice. This division among the judges underscored the subjective nature of artistic expression and left viewers wondering how America would perceive Kristen’s bold song choice, especially with the ultimate decision resting on public votes.

Risks and Rewards: Magic, Dance, and Comedy in the Final Qualifiers

Following Kristen, magician and rapper Mervant Vera stepped into the spotlight, known for his unique fusion of mentalism, card tricks, and rhythmic wordplay. For his qualifiers performance, Mervant truly decided to push the boundaries, admitting beforehand that he wasn’t even sure how his intricate plan would unfold. His ambitious act involved not only the judges but also host Terry Crews and members of the audience, creating an immersive and unpredictable experience. Mervant’s commitment to innovation in his craft has always been a standout feature, and this performance was no exception, as he sought to create a moment that would resonate deeply with everyone present.

Heidi Klum was particularly impressed by Mervant’s creative approach, noting how his blend of music and magic effectively “separates” him from other magicians in the competition. This uniqueness is often a key factor in advancing through the rigorous stages of AGT. Simon Cowell, despite his usual poker face, admitted that he could sense Mervant’s nervousness, recognizing “how much you really want this to work for you.” This rare display of empathy from Simon highlighted the immense pressure Mervant was under, emphasizing the personal stakes involved. Howie Mandel, a connoisseur of comedy and originality, gave Mervant a distinctive compliment, calling him the “magical hip hop version of Tony Robbins,” praising his motivational delivery alongside his magical prowess. Mervant’s gamble seemed to have paid off, at least in terms of critical reception, proving that taking risks can indeed lead to great rewards on the America’s Got Talent stage.

The energy then shifted with the highly anticipated performance from Travis Japan, a group that has garnered a significant international following. For their latest appearance, they opted to perform an original song, a choice that can either elevate an act or expose its vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, their performance was initially plagued by noticeable vocal issues, prompting Howie Mandel to press his dreaded red X – a clear signal of his disapproval. This moment created a palpable tension in the theater, as the group seemed to be stumbling. However, in a surprising turn of events, the performance suddenly took off, improving significantly as they continued. Howie later explained his initial reaction, stating that he pressed his red X because the singing was “really off… It seemed like a parody.” This candid feedback from Howie often reflects concerns that many viewers might share, especially when vocal quality is paramount.

Simon Cowell didn’t mince words either, telling the group quite frankly that the “song was dreadful.” Despite this harsh critique of their musical choice, he conceded that he found them “really entertaining,” suggesting their stage presence and effort were commendable even if the vocals weren’t up to par. Sofia Vergara echoed the concerns about their singing, admitting that Travis Japan’s vocals were “a little bit bad… I don’t think tonight was your night.” This kind of collective criticism from the judges often spells trouble for an act’s chances, underscoring the fierce competition in the qualifiers and the necessity of delivering a flawless, memorable performance.

Bringing elegance and grace to the stage was Australian dancer Max Ostler, who elevated his performance significantly with a breathtaking routine set to Ed Sheeran’s “Castle on the Hill.” Max’s ability to blend contemporary movement with profound emotional storytelling has consistently impressed. This time, he truly showcased his artistry, crafting a performance that was both technically brilliant and deeply moving. His fluid movements and powerful emotional connection to the music transcended mere dance, creating a captivating visual narrative. Heidi Klum was visibly captivated, calling Max “poetry in motion,” a testament to the fluid beauty and expressive quality of his dance. Simon Cowell was equally effusive in his praise, raving that Max’s “choreography was incredible” and boldly declaring that this performance was “better than your first audition.” This improvement is precisely what the judges look for in the qualifiers – acts that demonstrate growth, adaptability, and can handle the immense pressure of the live shows. Max certainly delivered, leaving a strong impression on both the judges and the audience, solidifying his position as a strong contender in the dance category.

Injecting much-needed laughter into the high-tension atmosphere was comedian Jordan Conley, who earned his spot as America’s Wildcard. Jordan proved why he deserved this second chance, delivering a standup routine that was both hilarious and incredibly relatable. His infectious energy and sharp wit brought genuine laughs from the audience and judges alike. Jordan’s ability to connect with everyday experiences and deliver them with perfect comedic timing is a rare gift. Simon Cowell, known for his tough exterior, was so impressed that he gave Jordan a rare standing ovation, a powerful endorsement from the show’s toughest critic. Howie Mandel, a seasoned comedian himself, admitted, “You are just lovable,” highlighting Jordan’s inherent charm and magnetic stage presence. Simon further cemented his admiration by adding that Jordan was “brilliant” tonight, solidifying his status as a strong contender in the comedy category. Jordan’s ability to effortlessly engage and entertain often translates well in the public vote, making his performance particularly impactful in the battle for the finals.

‘Astonishingly Brilliant’ Acts and Jaw-Dropping Danger

The night continued to unfold with a series of truly memorable performances, showcasing the extreme diversity of talent on America’s Got Talent. Pole dancer Kristy Sellars once again pushed the boundaries of her art form, stunning the judges with a jaw-dropping performance that combined intricate pole work with mesmerizing visual projections. Her act is more than just pole dancing; it’s a theatrical experience that tells a story, immersing the audience in a world of her creation. The seamless integration of her athletic prowess with cutting-edge digital backdrops created an almost surreal visual feast. Simon Cowell was visibly astonished, calling the performance “unbelievable” and proclaiming that Kristy has “one of the most astonishingly brilliant, creative acts we’ve seen on the live shows.” Such high praise from Simon is rare and signifies an act that has truly transcended expectations. Her unique fusion of athleticism, artistry, and technology makes her a strong contender for the finals, offering something truly distinctive to the competition.

Immediately following Kristy’s ethereal display, the tension in the room ratcheted up considerably with the arrival of Blade 2 Blade. This fearless duo kept everyone on the absolute edge of their seats with an act that redefined danger. Their performance involved throwing razor-sharp blades at a spinning wheel, where a woman was often positioned, creating moments of intense suspense. The precision required to safely execute such dangerous stunts is mind-boggling, and they performed with astonishing accuracy. They even escalated the danger by incorporating burning blades, adding a terrifying visual element to their already high-stakes routine, proving their commitment to pushing boundaries. The precision, trust, and nerve required for such an act are immense, and they executed it flawlessly, leaving the audience gasping. Simon Cowell, always on the lookout for a potential Vegas headliner, confidently stated that there was “no question” about this being a quintessential Vegas act, highlighting its spectacle and appeal. Howie Mandel highlighted the unique role they play in the competition, pointing out that this was the only true danger act of AGT this season. He commended their contribution by saying, “You bring something we need,” emphasizing the thrilling excitement their act delivers to the show. Blade 2 Blade carved out a strong position for themselves, leaving a lasting impression of courage and skill that few can replicate.

The dynamic dance group Urbancrew then took to the stage, once again defying gravity and expectations with their latest performance. Their routines are characterized by incredible acrobatics, synchronized movements, and an infectious energy that is impossible to ignore. This time, they pushed their physical limits even further, delivering a high-octane spectacle that had the audience on their feet and the judges marveling. Their flips, tumbles, and intricate formations were executed with military precision, showcasing years of dedication and teamwork. Simon Cowell was visibly moved by their performance, declaring, “This made me feel amazing,” and unequivocally adding, “That’s what I call a 10.” Such unreserved praise from Simon is a rare occurrence and speaks volumes about the quality of their act. Howie Mandel went even further, proclaiming that this “was the most exciting, most entertaining act of the night.” Heidi Klum echoed Howie’s sentiments, confirming that Urbancrew was her “favorite act of the night.” Their collective endorsement positioned Urbancrew as a formidable contender, with a performance that felt truly finals-worthy, destined for success on the big stage.

Golden Buzzer Brilliance and Unforgettable Closing Acts

As the night progressed towards its electrifying conclusion, the audience was treated to more incredible talent, including a highly anticipated return. Singer Aubrey Birchell, known for her distinctive voice and emotional delivery, graced the stage with a lovely performance of “Loved by You” by KIRBY. Her soulful rendition earned a standing ovation from all four judges, a significant achievement in itself. Aubrey’s ability to convey deep emotion through her vocals has always been her strong suit, and this performance was no exception. Howie Mandel, however, offered a cautious critique, suggesting that while he loved her voice, the song choice might have been a bit too “cabaret” for the broader audience at home, hinting at potential challenges in the public vote. Heidi Klum countered this, believing that the song choice perfectly showcased Aubrey’s “amazing range,” highlighting her versatility and demonstrating her artistic growth. Simon Cowell acknowledged Aubrey’s “great voice” but noted that she “could have made it a little easier” for herself with a different song. Nevertheless, he appreciated her decision to take a risk, recognizing the artistry involved in challenging oneself. Aubrey’s performance underscored the difficult choices acts face in trying to balance crowd-pleasing with artistic integrity, especially in a competition where public perception is key.

The stage then welcomed back yo-yo artist Shu Takada, whose unparalleled skill with a yo-yo transforms a simple toy into an instrument of mesmerizing performance art. From the moment he began, it was impossible to take one’s eyes off him. Shu didn’t just perform tricks; he crafted a thrilling experience, combining intricate maneuvers with dynamic stage presence, making his yo-yo act incredibly cool and surprisingly captivating. His rapid-fire movements, intricate string work, and flawless execution truly elevated the art form. Sofia Vergara admitted, “You definitely make yo-yo cool,” acknowledging his innovative approach and the charisma he brings to his unique talent. Howie Mandel praised his unprecedented level of skill, telling Shu that “we have never seen done to the level you’re doing it.” Shu Takada’s unique talent undoubtedly stood out in a night full of diverse acts, proving that even the most unexpected forms of entertainment can reach the highest echelons of talent and impress the toughest critics.

Capping off this incredible night of final qualifiers was Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer act,Mayyas. This Lebanese dance group, consisting of 36 incredibly talented ladies, has been a sensation since their very first audition, known for their stunningly intricate and perfectly synchronized routines. For their qualifiers performance, they delivered what many are calling one of the most astounding performances of the entire season. Their artistry, precision, and the sheer power of their collective movement were breathtaking, creating visuals that were both elegant and impactful. Every movement was perfectly synchronized, every ripple and wave of motion flawless, painting a truly mesmerizing picture on stage. Mayyas truly proved they are not just a dance group but a phenomenon, a perfect Vegas act ready to dazzle on any global stage with their unique blend of cultural artistry and modern spectacle.

The judges were absolutely floored, collectively rising to their feet in a thunderous standing ovation. Sofia Vergara, beaming with pride, immediately ran up onto the stage to hug the ladies after their flawless performance, a heartfelt gesture reflecting her unwavering belief in them from the beginning. Simon Cowell, profound in his praise, declared that this performance wasn’t just going to change their lives; it was “a performance that changes the world,” acknowledging the immense cultural impact and inspirational message their act carries, particularly in a global context. Heidi Klum succinctly stated that Mayyas is “Vegas ready,” a definitive stamp of approval that speaks to their world-class entertainment value and readiness for a grand stage. Howie Mandel went so far as to say that this was the “best moment I have seen in AGT history,” an incredibly powerful statement considering his long tenure on the show and the countless acts he has witnessed. Mayyas’s closing act solidified their position as a top contender, leaving an indelible mark on the Season 17 qualifiers and setting an exceptionally high bar for the upcoming finals, positioning them as potential champions.

As the curtain fell on the final night of qualifiers for America’s Got Talent Season 17, the excitement for the upcoming finals reached a fever pitch. With such an incredibly diverse and talented pool of acts having given their all, the competition is tighter than ever. The judges have made their critiques, the acts have poured their hearts into their performances, and now it’s up to America to decide who truly deserves to move forward. The road to the championship title is narrow, and only the most compelling, unique, and consistently outstanding performers will have the chance to claim the ultimate prize. The anticipation for the results and the grand finale is palpable, promising an unforgettable conclusion to a remarkable season of talent and triumph.