Insights on Judges' Knowledge Regarding America's Got Talent Acts: Casting Producer Speaks Up Frankly
America's Got Talent (AGT) Season 20 debuted on the television schedule on Tuesday, marking the highly-anticipated return of the talent competition show. To make it onto the stage, contestants go through a meticulous casting process. CinemaBlend attended the open call auditions in Pasadena, California, and discovered the judges' role in the selection process.
The four judges, including Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara, have a significant impact on who graces the stage. Casting producer Meg MacGregor, who has been instrumental in the casting of AGT for eighteen seasons, shed some light on the selection criteria.
Despite the judges' need to watch numerous acts and react accordingly on television, they prefer to remain unaware of the acts' details beforehand. They aim to be as surprised as the audience. Influential factors in the casting process seem to be personality, the ability to captivate the judges, and acts that share personal stories or show sincere passion.
For instance, the Texas magician who dedicated his act to his daughter and the 23-year-old singer Jordan Blue, who touched the judges emotionally with his backstory and vocal prowess, are prime examples of this. They were ultimately selected for their compelling performances and heartfelt stories.
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Last season's winner, Richard Goodall, warmed hearts with his incredible singing voice and charisma. After his victory, Goodall expressed hope that his win would inspire others to audition and strive for the finale. As the season unfolds, more contestants are expected to steal the spotlight and leave the judges astounded.
In the extensive casting process, video submissions, virtual open calls, primary screenings, and verification of eligibility are key steps. Only after passing these phases do potential acts perform for the judges. The judges see acts that have already been pre-selected, ensuring that only the most promising candidates appear on stage.
Contestants on America's Got Talent (AGT) are chosen based on personality, their ability to captivate the judges, and acts that share personal stories or show sincere passion, as demonstrated by the Texas magician who dedicated his act to his daughter and the 23-year-old singer Jordan Blue. The judges, including Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara, prefer to remain unaware of the acts' details beforehand, aiming to be as surprised as the audience during their daily blend of interviews and entertainment.
