Blind Man with Autism Earns First 'AGT' Golden Buzzer of Season 14
Your favorite summer talent show is back with an all new host and a pair of new judges that bring a little bit of sugar and spice to the table.
“America’s Got Talent” Season 14 is here and night one was packed with the good, the bad and Gabrielle Union’s Golden Buzzer.
It’s great to have @itsgabrielleu, @juliannehough and @terrycrews join #AGT alongside @howiemandel (who’s done this show for 10 years, he made sure to remind us everyday) @AGT pic.twitter.com/9xPgeLph8z
— Simon Cowell (@SimonCowell) May 19, 2019
It was hard to know what to expect with the absence of Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum and Mel B, but “AGT” fans can rest assured the new faces won’t disappoint.
While I’m of the humble opinion that as long as Simon Cowell sticks around and keeps charming us with his British wit the show will keep on shining, I’d say the newbies definitely add something extra special.
Terry Crews may just be the perfect choice for host and Gabrielle Union is both elegant and kind.
Julianne Hough probably surprised everyone the most as she switched between her nice and not-so-nice judge personas.
Exclusive #AGT First Look: @JulianneHough and @ItsGabrielleU Join the Season 14 Judges’ Panel https://t.co/vPAyPJkQ0H pic.twitter.com/oRuQj9Yvmw
— TVLine.com (@TVLine) May 22, 2019
What was even more surprising was the variety of acts performing on night one alone. From acrobatic dancing to a card magician that rivals Shin Lim, there was plenty of talent to look forward to seeing again.
One of those talented individuals is Kodi Lee, a 22-year-old blind and autistic man who can only be called a prodigy.
Kodi’s mom, Tina Lee, walked with him on stage as his support.
“We found out he loved music really early on,” she told the judges. “Through music and performing he was able to withstand being in this world.”
Tina added that music has saved her son’s life. We know that those with autism experience everything differently. The spectrum is so broad, it would be impossible to fully understand each individual point of view.
But music is a universal language — loved by all. It’s not hard to recognize a good voice when you hear one or to understand the difference between mediocre and great piano playing.
Kodi Lee’s musical abilities are beyond great. This young man is something quite extraordinary. Just watch and believe.
He deserves every strip of golden confetti he got! The judges agree.
“I heard you, I felt you, and this was so much more than beautiful,” Julianne Hough wrote on Facebook.
“I am absolutely stunned,” Howie Mandel tweeted. “Not only did we feel authenticity in what Kodi did, his talent is also incredible.”
“I gave #KodiLee my Golden Buzzer but his family fought for the information, resources & opportunities to make his dreams come true,” Gabrielle Union wrote on Twitter.
“Everyone deserves the chance to shine, let’s work to make that a reality.”
I couldn’t have said it better myself. Look for Kodi Lee and all the amazing talent this season is sure to bring on “AGT” every Tuesday at 8/7c on NBC.
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