What started as heartbreak turned into one of the most powerful comebacks of the America’s Got Talent season — and it all came down to one brave 13-year-old, a guitar, and a song by Ed Sheeran.

A Promising Start That Took a Gut-Punch Turn

Chase Varnes, a soft-spoken farm kid from Vancouver Island, walked onto the AGT stage with nerves, heart, and a hopeful original song. But just moments into his performance, Simon Cowell raised his hand — and cut it short.

“I hate to do this. I didn’t love the song,” Simon said flatly. The room went silent. Chase looked crushed.

But in classic Cowell fashion, the story didn’t end there.

“However, I like you,” Simon added. “You’ve got something. Do you have another song?”

Chase nodded, regrouped, and picked up his guitar. The second chance? “Life Goes On” by Ed Sheeran — and with it, he didn’t just sing. He soared.

From Shaky Start to Showstopper

As Chase strummed and sang the tender ballad, the crowd transformed from unsure to entranced. His voice — still youthful but rich with emotion — filled the arena. His country twang added a textured edge to the pop melody, and suddenly the boy once dismissed became a crowd favorite.

The audience leapt to their feet. The judges sat straighter. And online? 1.1 million views in four days say the world felt it too.

The Judges Weigh In

• Howie Mandel was the first to jump in with praise: “You remind me of a young Justin Bieber. There’s real star power there.”
• Heidi Klum chimed in, beaming: “The second song showed who you are. The girls are going to go crazy for you!”
• Mel B played tough, noting, “You’re still nervous. You’re not there yet.” — a comment that got her booed by the crowd.

But Simon had the final word:

“You’ve got heart, charm, and something real. The audience loved you — and so did I.”

With three yeses, Chase Varnes walked off that stage not as the kid who got cut off, but as the one who fought back and won.

A Moment Bigger Than Just a Yes

Fans were quick to rally around Chase online:

“Simon was right to push him. He rose to the challenge. That’s talent.”
“He took the pressure, and he delivered. This kid is going places.”

At just 13, Chase Varnes proved he’s more than a viral moment. He’s got grit, soul, and a sound that’s just beginning to find its wings.

And thanks to one tough judge, one big heart, and a second shot — he’s got our attention.