I’m Hyped For America’s Got Talent’s Lineup For The First Season 20 Live Shows, But I Hope One Thing Changes From Last Year

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Following two months and nine rounds of auditions, accompanied by at least ten golden buzzers, America’s Got Talent is advancing into the live shows for the 2025 TV calendar. The live quarterfinals typically represent a notch above the audition phase, but I’m particularly excited for this round because it marks part of the momentous 20th season. The initial night of live acts promises to be packed with talent, and America’s Got Talent is gearing up to reach new heights… which has me recalling a chilly moment from Season 19. However, let’s focus on the bright side first!

America’s Got Talent’s First Live Quarterfinals Episode

The judges have selected 44 exceptional performers from the auditions to compete in the live shows, even though ten of them were previously chosen by the golden buzzers. This implies that for four consecutive weeks, we’ll witness live performances culminating in the Season 20 finale in September. I’m excited about the initial group of eleven contestants who will perform again on America’s Got Talent starting from August 19 (with a repeat broadcast available the following day with a Peacock subscription). Here’s a preview:

  • B Unique Crew – Dance Group
  • Charity Lockhart – Singer
  • CitiLimitz – Singing Group
  • Jourdan Blue – Singer
  • Lightwire – Projection
  • Loco Pop Familia – Dance
  • Phobias – Magic Act
  • Shuler King – Stand Up Comic
  • Sirca Marea – Acrobat
  • Steve Ray Ladson – Band
  • Tom Sandoval & the Most Extras – Band

Among the initial performers, there are some real stars that truly shine, not only Tom Sandoval, who brought his Vanderpump Rules drama along to AGT, but also several exceptional acts. Specifically, Mel B chose Charity Lockhart, Howie Mandel selected Jourdan Blue, and Simon Cowell picked LightWire for their golden buzzers.

Additionally, this collective offers a diverse array of performances. Given that Season 20 hasn’t been particularly impressive for magicians and stand-up comedians, it’s no wonder there’s only one representative from each category. However, I’m delighted that the initial live shows won’t feature a string of solo singers.

Regardless of how the upcoming performances unfold, only three contestants will progress based on viewer votes. While each judge has a golden buzzer available for this round, it seems one will use it weekly to maintain balance. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that many performers participating in the live shows won’t be advancing further in the competition.

What I Hope Goes Differently With AGT Live In 2025

Apart from Richard Goodall last year, I frequently find myself disgruntled when quarterfinals feature numerous singers, given that there are shows like “The Voice” and “American Idol” dedicated to music. Absolutely, I do have my grumpy moments about young talents advancing, though I suspect I’d struggle with sending them home too. Yes, the excitement of golden buzzers seems to have dwindled now that they are abundant in auditions alone. Unfortunately, these are minor complaints that don’t deter me from watching.

I’m worried one aspect from Season 19’s finale might repeat when Season 20 transitions from pre-recorded to live broadcast. The tempo for the closing episodes last season didn’t feel right, becoming so slow that Terry Crews’ declarations of who advanced were followed by a lot of filler material, leaving champion Richard Goodall minimal screen time to truly savor his victory.

Although I wouldn’t expect reality competition shows to reduce filler content towards the end of a season, I recall Richard Goodall’s initial reaction upon winning, but the episode ended suddenly after that. I hope that everyone receives their deserved recognition during the live show rounds, given that the contestants’ futures now rely on home voters.

Join us for the premiere of “America’s Got Talent” Season 20’s live quarterfinals on Tuesday, August 19 at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC. The following night, catch the first live results episode on Wednesday, August 20 at 8 p.m. ET. For those who miss the episodes, they can be streamed the next day on Peacock; however, keep in mind that streaming will exclude you from the voting process. Therefore, it’s best to watch the later rounds of “AGT” live if possible.

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2025-08-19 13:09