America’s Got Talent 2025 Season 20: Greatest Golden Buzzers Special
Season 20 of America’s Got Talent included a powerful retrospective celebrating the show’s most iconic Golden Buzzer moments. Judges and fans revisited emotional, viral, and game-changing performances from past seasons.
This recap breaks down all 16 featured acts, who gave them the buzzer, what made each performance stand out, and where they are now. From ventriloquists and violinists to choirs and spoken word artists, these Golden Buzzer acts have left a lasting mark on AGT history.
On July 22, 2025, America’s Got Talent aired a one-hour retrospective titled “Greatest Golden Buzzers!” The special celebrated 16 unforgettable acts from past seasons—each launched by a judge’s or host’s buzzer. Viewers got updates on where the performers are now, what they’ve achieved since their audition, and why their moment still stands out today.
Meet the Judges and Host – AGT 2025
- Simon Cowell: Gave Golden Buzzers to Calysta Bevier, Tyler Butler‑Figueroa, Sara James, Brandon Leake, and Nightbirde. Known for spotting emotional acts with long-term impact.
- Howie Mandel: Buzzed Grace VanderWaal. He gravitates toward originality and raw appeal.
- Sofía Vergara: Selected The Mayyas and Schumacher. Focuses on bold visuals and standout stage presence.
- Mel B: Awarded Darci Lynne Farmer and Dorothy Williams. Often backs feel-good, unique acts.
- Heidi Klum: Buzzed Calysta Bevier. Drawn to authenticity and resilience.
- Gabrielle Union: Buzzed Kodi Lee. Known for elevating inspiring performers.
- Terry Crews: Buzzed Detroit Youth Choir and Learnmore Jonasi. Picks acts that move the crowd emotionally.
What Is the Golden Buzzer on AGT?
The Golden Buzzer is a rare honor each judge or host can use once per season to send a performer straight to the live shows. It’s reserved for acts that are emotionally powerful, wildly original, or show clear star potential. Since its introduction in Season 9, the Golden Buzzer has produced some of AGT’s most iconic moments and careers—including performers like Darci Lynne, Brandon Leake, and Nightbirde.
Greatest Golden Buzzers Special vs. Regular Audition Weeks
AGT 2025 paused its standard auditions to deliver the Greatest Golden Buzzers Special, featuring 16 of the most iconic acts from past seasons—each a proven event headliner. Compared to a normal audition week, this episode offered higher event value, polished variety acts, and more immediate booking potential for live audiences.
- Week 1 Highlights: Grand visual acts and viral-ready performances—ideal for theaters, launch events, and large audiences.
- Week 2 Highlights: Global and technical acts—well-suited for international events, tech audiences, and innovation showcases.
- Week 3 Highlights: Emotional vocalists and inspirational stories—top picks for galas, fundraisers, and community events.
- Week 4 Highlights: Music innovation and interactive tech—great for branded shows, family audiences, and interactive events.
- Week 5 Highlights: Quirky variety, record attempts, and offbeat acts—fitting for schools, youth, and high-variety entertainment.
- Week 6 Highlights: Wide-range auditions—music, danger, and variety for broad audiences and general event bookings.
This special served as a direct showcase of AGT’s headline talent. It was a one-hour celebration of the show’s most successful Golden Buzzer acts—proven headliners for premium events, galas, and high-profile bookings. Every featured act is a nationally recognized performer ready for major stages. For event planners seeking talent with built-in audience appeal and a proven record on the biggest platforms, this special set the benchmark.
AGT S20 E8 Performer Highlights – Greatest Golden Buzzers
Howie Mandel’s Golden Buzzer
Grace VanderWaal – Singer-Songwriter (S11, Howie Mandel)
Grace stunned audiences in Season 11 with her original song and ukulele, earning Howie Mandel’s Golden Buzzer. At just 12, she brought emotional maturity and a distinct musical voice that helped her win the season.
- Tags: Music, Singer-Songwriter, Youth Talent
- Credits: AGT S11 Winner, Columbia Records Artist, Star of Stargirl (Disney+)
- Best for: Youth events, acoustic concerts, crossover pop showcases
Where is she now? Grace has released two albums, starred in three feature films, and continues to tour and record.
Sofía Vergara’s Golden Buzzer
The Mayyas – Lebanese Dance Group (S17, Sofía Vergara)
The Mayyas delivered one of AGT’s most mesmerizing performances, earning Sofía Vergara’s Golden Buzzer in Season 17. With synchronized precision and hypnotic formations, they set a new standard for dance on the show and won their season.
- Tags: Dance, Visual Art, Cultural Performance
- Credits: AGT S17 Winner, Performed with Beyoncé, AGT: All-Stars
- Best for: Corporate galas, global showcases, large-format stage productions
Where are they now? The Mayyas have performed with Beyoncé, including on her Cowboy Carter tour, and continue to inspire worldwide.
Sofía Vergara’s Golden Buzzer
Schumacher – Bike Acrobatics Duo (S19, Sofía Vergara)
This bike stunt duo wowed the AGT audience in Season 19, earning a Golden Buzzer from Sofía Vergara. Their act combines strength, danger, and storytelling, all while one partner performs in a wheelchair.
- Tags: Stunt Duo, Acrobatics, Inspirational
- Credits: AGT S19 Quarterfinalists, Greatest Golden Buzzers (2025)
- Best for: Arena shows, disability inclusion events, motivational performances
Where are they now? They reached the quarterfinals and continue to perform their comedy-stunt routines live.
Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer
Calysta Bevier – Vocalist (S11, Simon Cowell)
Calysta Bevier earned Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer after her raw and heartfelt performance of “Fight Song” in Season 11. A cancer survivor, Calysta used her voice to inspire and connect with millions.
- Tags: Vocalist, Inspirational, Cancer Survivor
- Credits: AGT S11 Semifinalist, AGT All-Stars 2023, Spotify Artist
- Best for: Health fundraisers, youth events, inspirational programming
Where is she now? Calysta returned for AGT: All-Stars 2023 and continues to record and perform original music.
Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer
Tyler Butler-Figueroa – Violinist (S14, Simon Cowell)
Tyler inspired millions with his Season 14 violin audition. A cancer survivor who turned to music to cope with bullying, Tyler’s performance was filled with emotion and energy. Simon Cowell gave him the Golden Buzzer and called him a true inspiration.
- Tags: Violin, Inspirational, Youth Performer
- Credits: AGT S14 Finalist, AGT Champions 2020, Touring Violinist
- Best for: School assemblies, family shows, inspirational youth events
Where is he now? Tyler returned for AGT: The Champions 2020 and continues performing across North Carolina, with several albums online.
Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer
Sara James – Vocalist (S17, Simon Cowell)
Sara James stunned the AGT stage in Season 17 with powerhouse vocals and a polished presence beyond her years. Simon Cowell awarded her the Golden Buzzer after her performance of “Lovely.” She became one of the season’s most talked-about acts.
- Tags: Vocalist, International Talent, Youth Performer
- Credits: AGT S17 Finalist, Polish Voice Kids Winner, International Music Artist
- Best for: Music showcases, cultural events, teen-focused entertainment
Where is she now? Sara reached the finals and continues to pursue music internationally, recently releasing her single “KIKI.”
Group Golden Buzzer
Sky Elements – Drone Light Show (S19, Group Golden Buzzer)
Sky Elements delivered a groundbreaking drone performance in Season 19, earning the rare Group Golden Buzzer. Their synchronized aerial choreography combined technology and artistry to wow the audience and set a new standard for visual acts on AGT.
- Tags: Drone Show, Technology, Visual Spectacle
- Credits: AGT S19 Finalist, Professional Drone Show Company
- Best for: Stadium shows, large-scale corporate events, outdoor entertainment
Where are they now? The group made the finals and continues to perform large-scale drone shows across the U.S.
Group Golden Buzzer
Victory Brinker – Operatic Singer (S16, Group Golden Buzzer)
Victory Brinker made AGT history by earning the first-ever Group Golden Buzzer in Season 16. At just nine years old, her stunning operatic voice left judges and audience speechless, making her a symbol of young classical talent.
- Tags: Opera, Child Prodigy, Classical Music
- Credits: AGT S16 Finalist, Guinness World Record Holder, Carnegie Hall Performer
- Best for: Cultural galas, music festivals, formal celebrations
Where is she now? Victory set a Guinness World Record as the youngest opera singer and recently performed at Carnegie Hall.
Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer
Brandon Leake – Spoken Word Poet (S15, Simon Cowell)
Brandon Leake made AGT history in Season 15 as the first spoken word poet to earn the Golden Buzzer and win the show. Simon Cowell praised his powerful delivery and emotional storytelling. His poetry resonated deeply with viewers and judges alike.
- Tags: Spoken Word, Poetry, Inspirational
- Credits: AGT S15 Winner, UTA Artist, NFL Campaign Feature
- Best for: Colleges, education events, corporate inspiration
Where is he now? Brandon signed with UTA, tours as a motivational speaker and poet, and was recently featured in a national NFL campaign.
Host Golden Buzzer
Dorothy Williams – Burlesque Performer (S11, Host Golden Buzzer)
Dorothy Williams became a fan favorite on AGT Season 11 after earning the Host Golden Buzzer. At 90 years old, her surprise burlesque performance broke the mold and delivered one of the most joyful and unexpected moments in Golden Buzzer history.
- Tags: Senior Talent, Variety, Surprise Act
- Credits: AGT S11 Quarterfinalist, Viral Sensation
- Best for: Variety showcases, feel-good segments, senior events
Where is she now? Dorothy returned to life in Hawaii after AGT, forever remembered as one of the show’s most joyful acts.
Terry Crews Golden Buzzer
Learnmore Jonasi – Stand-Up Comedian (S19, Terry Crews Golden Buzzer)
Learnmore Jonasi brought a refreshing voice and high-energy storytelling to the AGT stage in Season 19. Originally from Zimbabwe, his humor translated across cultures and instantly connected with the audience. Terry Crews awarded him the Golden Buzzer for his joyful presence and standout set.
- Tags: Comedy, International Talent, Storytelling
- Credits: AGT S19 Finalist, U.S. Tour 2025, Upcoming Comedy Special
- Best for: Cultural events, comedy festivals, corporate keynotes
Where is he now? After reaching the finals, Learnmore launched a national U.S. comedy tour and is set to record a stand-up special in November 2025.
Terry Crews Golden Buzzer
Detroit Youth Choir – Inspirational Choir (S14, Terry Crews Golden Buzzer)
In Season 14, Detroit Youth Choir wowed audiences with their powerful vocals, choreography, and emotional storytelling. Terry Crews awarded them the Golden Buzzer, moved by their message of unity and resilience.
- Tags: Choir, Youth Performance, Inspirational
- Credits: AGT S14 Finalist, AGT All-Stars, Featured in Disney+ Series Choir
- Best for: Community events, inspirational galas, cultural celebrations
Where are they now? DYC returned for AGT: All-Stars and are featured in the Disney+ docuseries Choir, showcasing their ongoing work with Detroit youth.
Gabrielle Union’s Golden Buzzer
Kodi Lee – Singer-Pianist (S14, Gabrielle Union)
Kodi Lee delivered a moving performance that earned Gabrielle Union’s Golden Buzzer in Season 14 and went on to win the competition. Blind and autistic, Kodi’s musical ability and emotional connection made him one of AGT’s most inspiring acts.
- Tags: Piano, Vocal, Inspirational, Disability Inclusion
- Credits: AGT S14 Winner, AGT Fantasy League, Billboard-Charting Artist
- Best for: Fundraisers, theaters, disability awareness events
Where is he now? Kodi has performed on AGT: All-Stars and continues to release original music, including fan-favorite tracks “Heck Yeah” and “Can’t Hold Me Down.”
Mel B Golden Buzzer
Darci Lynne Farmer – Singing Ventriloquist (S12, Mel B Golden Buzzer)
Darci Lynne won over America in Season 12 with her stunning singing ventriloquism act, earning Mel B’s Golden Buzzer. Her vocal talent and puppetry skills combined humor, charm, and musicality, making her one of AGT’s most successful champions.
- Tags: Ventriloquism, Singing, Comedy, Youth Talent
- Credits: AGT S12 Winner, AGT Champions Finalist, National Touring Artist
- Best for: Family entertainment, theaters, youth events
Where is she now? Darci tours nationwide with her puppet characters and continues to expand her act with comedy, impressions, and original music.
Simon Cowell Golden Buzzer
Nightbirde – Original Singer-Songwriter (S16, Simon Cowell Golden Buzzer)
Nightbirde, whose real name was Jane Marczewski, delivered a haunting original song “It’s OK” in Season 16 that moved Simon Cowell to tears and earned his Golden Buzzer. Her story of resilience amid a cancer diagnosis made her one of AGT’s most memorable voices.
- Tags: Singer-Songwriter, Inspirational, Original Music
- Credits: AGT S16 Golden Buzzer, Billboard Charting Song, Viral Legacy
- Best for: Inspirational events, benefit concerts, speaker series
Where is she now? Nightbirde passed away in 2022, but her song “It’s OK” continues to inspire millions worldwide.
Audience Golden Buzzer
Mzansi Youth Choir – Choir (S18, Audience Golden Buzzer)
Mzansi Youth Choir returned in Season 18 with a moving tribute to Nightbirde, performing her song “It’s OK.” Their harmonies and emotional delivery earned them the rare Audience Golden Buzzer, uniting judges and viewers in a spontaneous ovation.
- Tags: Choir, Inspirational, International
- Credits: AGT S18 Finalists, Global Tour Performers, Featured in AGT Greatest Golden Buzzers
- Best for: Cultural festivals, charity events, youth empowerment programs
Where are they now? The choir finished as finalists and now tours internationally, with their latest single “My Universe.”
Booking Analysis: Which Golden Buzzer Acts Are Right for Your Event?
Here’s a quick look at which AGT Golden Buzzer acts best fit different types of events:
| Performer | Event Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Grace VanderWaal | Teen Events, Concert Series | Original music with strong appeal for young audiences |
| Darci Lynne | Family Events, Theaters | Clean, multi-generational act with music and comedy |
| Kodi Lee | Fundraisers, Inclusion Events | Inspires with talent, resilience, and broad musical range |
| The Mayyas | Galas, Cultural Events | Visually stunning, internationally acclaimed dance |
| Detroit Youth Choir | School Programs, Community Events | High-energy, positive messages of unity and hope |
| Brandon Leake | Colleges, Corporate Inspiration | Spoken word artist who motivates with personal storytelling |
| Sky Elements | Outdoor Festivals, Stadium Shows | High-tech drone show for large-scale events |
| Calysta Bevier | Healthcare Galas, Youth Conferences | Compelling personal story and strong vocal talent |
| Learnmore Jonasi | Comedy Nights, Cultural Events | International stand-up with broad, cross-cultural appeal |
| Victory Brinker | Faith-Based Events, Holiday Concerts | Operatic prodigy with classical training |
Want to bring one of these standout acts to your next event? Contact us for availability and booking details.
Frequently Asked Questions – Greatest Golden Buzzers Special
What is the AGT Greatest Golden Buzzers special?
When did AGT: Greatest Golden Buzzers air?
How many Golden Buzzer acts were featured?
Who was the youngest Golden Buzzer act featured?
Has a poet ever won America’s Got Talent?
Who gave the most Golden Buzzers across AGT history?
Which Golden Buzzer act has the most Instagram followers?
Can a Golden Buzzer act return to AGT?
What is the Group Golden Buzzer?
Has any act received the Golden Buzzer more than once?
Who was the first host to give a Golden Buzzer?
What’s the Audience Golden Buzzer?
Who was the first Audience Golden Buzzer?
Has a dance group ever won AGT?
Is Darci Lynne still performing live?
What happened to Nightbirde?
Can I book any of these acts for an event?
Where can I watch the 2025 Golden Buzzers special?
What song did Calysta Bevier perform in her audition?
Do all Golden Buzzer acts reach the finals?
How does the Golden Buzzer work on AGT?
What makes a Golden Buzzer moment?
Did every AGT winner get a Golden Buzzer?
Behind the Scenes: How Golden Buzzers Are Chosen
Each judge and the host can hit the Golden Buzzer once per season. This sends a performer straight to the live shows. The choice is usually spontaneous, sparked by an emotional or standout performance.
Sometimes, a judge uses the Golden Buzzer to highlight a story or message—as with Simon Cowell honoring Nightbirde’s resilience.
Since Season 16, group and audience buzzers have been added. Now, judges or viewers can team up to recognize acts that strike a cultural chord.
More AGT Recaps and Audition Advice
Explore other top America’s Got Talent content and audition tips:
20 Famous AGT Acts Who Never Got a Golden Buzzer
Not all of AGT’s biggest stars were buzzer picks. These standout acts reached the finals—or even won—without ever hearing the golden confetti. Many are still among the most successful AGT performers of all time.
- Terry Fator (Season 2 Winner): Ventriloquist and Vegas headliner.
- Shin Lim (Season 13 Winner): Sleight-of-hand magician, also won AGT: Champions.
- Lindsey Stirling (Season 5 Semifinalist): Violinist and dancer, eliminated early.
- V.Unbeatable (Season 14 Finalist): Acrobatic crew, later won Champions.
- Piff the Magic Dragon (Season 10 Finalist): Comedy magician, Vegas residency.
- Tape Face (Season 11 Finalist): Mime prop comic with a global fan base.
- The Clairvoyants (Season 11 Runner-Up): Mentalist duo, international tours.
- Tom Cotter (Season 7 Runner-Up): First stand-up comic in the AGT finals.
- William Close (Season 7 Finalist): Creator of the Earth Harp.
- Sal Valentinetti (Season 11 Finalist): Crooner with Sinatra-style vocals.
- Courtney Hadwin (Season 13 Finalist): Young rock-soul singer, viral star.
- Zucaroh (Season 13 Runner-Up): Acrobatic dance team from Austria.
- Brian Justin Crum (Season 11 Finalist): Singer known for powerhouse vocals.
- Light Balance Kids (Season 14 Finalist): LED dance crew, sibling act of Light Balance.
- Alex Hooper (Season 15 Comedian): Roasts judges, breaks format.
- Mat Franco (Season 9 Winner): Magician, headline Vegas show.
- Sara and Hero (Season 12 Finalists): Dog act, standing ovations.
- Mandy Harvey (Season 12 Finalist): Deaf singer-songwriter, original music.
- Daneliya Tuleshova (Season 15 Finalist): Teen singer, global online fanbase.
- Anna DeGuzman (Season 18 Finalist): Sleight-of-hand magician and cardist.
While they didn’t get the fast track, these acts won over audiences and judges the hard way—with memorable performances and consistent talent.
Book an AGT Golden Buzzer Performer for Your Event
America’s Got Talent Golden Buzzer acts deliver memorable live moments beyond TV. We work directly with select performers and trusted agencies to help you bring headline talent to your corporate gala, concert series, fundraiser, or theater.
- Darci Lynne (comedy, music, puppetry)
- Brandon Leake (spoken word, keynote)
- Learnmore Jonasi (clean international comedy)
- Detroit Youth Choir (youth arts inspiration)
- Victory Brinker (classical crossover concerts)
- Calysta Bevier (music, motivational)
- Other Golden Buzzer favorites available on request
Performers subject to availability. Contact us for current options and special appearances.
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