In a recent episode of America’s Got Talent, the judges were captivated by a mesmerizing performance from AIRFOOTWORKS, a dynamic acrobatic dance group from Japan.
Their performance was so outstanding that it sparked a playful competition between Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel over who would press the Golden Buzzer.
Airing on August 20, 2024, the episode featured AIRFOOTWORKS’ breathtaking routine set to Ed Sheeran’s Celestial. Blending acrobatics, dance, and stunning visual effects, the group left both the audience and judges in awe.
Founder Takashi Jonishi, who created AIRFOOTWORKS after a back injury led him to explore new movement techniques, had long dreamed of this moment. Their act stood out not only for its technical brilliance but also for its innovative stage design, incorporating a synchronized video wall that elevated the performance into a mesmerizing visual masterpiece.
Howie Mandel, thoroughly impressed, praised the group, saying, “You guys are athletes, you guys are dancers, you guys are creators!”
The Golden Buzzer moment turned into a hilarious showdown when both Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel reached for it at the same time. In a moment of playful defiance, Simon joked, “Terry, I am just about to get myself fired,” as he attempted to press the buzzer. However, since it was Howie’s designated night for the Live Golden Buzzer, he ultimately secured the honor.
This sparked a humorous back-and-forth between the judges. Feeling slightly “robbed,” Howie playfully warned Simon, “Keep your fingers off my buzzer!” But Simon wasn’t ready to back down, insisting, “When you watch the tape back, you’ll see my finger got there first—so that’s the way it is.”
Heidi Klum later shared with Parade that the judges were laughing about the incident, with Simon acting like “a little kid in a sandbox” demanding to see the footage.
Despite the friendly buzzer battle, all the judges agreed that AIRFOOTWORKS deserved the honor. Sofia Vergara supported Simon’s enthusiasm, while Howie explained his decision, saying, “They checked so many boxes. They’re great athletes, they have great strength, great artistry, and it’s a dance I’ve never seen before.”
AIRFOOTWORKS also had a special connection to America’s Got Talent. The group was mentored by Kenichi Ebina, the 2013 AGT champion known for his groundbreaking fusion of dance and performance. His influence was evident in their act, which seamlessly blended movement, visuals, and acrobatics.
This season, AGT introduced the Live Golden Buzzer, a game-changing twist in Season 19. Unlike previous years, where the Golden Buzzer sent acts straight to the semifinals, this new feature allows each judge to propel one act directly to the finals during the four weeks of quarterfinals—heightening the excitement and unpredictability of the competition.
With their Golden Buzzer victory, AIRFOOTWORKS bypasses the semifinals and secures a coveted spot in the finals. They now join Hakuna Matata Acrobatics, who received Sofia Vergara’s Live Golden Buzzer the previous week.
The journey continues for these exceptional performers, as the two-night finale is set to kick off on September 17 and conclude on September 24.
