Season 6

We've waited all summer to find out the winner of the sixth season of "America's Got Talent" -- and now we'll have to wait another two hours. Host Nick Cannon lists off the many acts that will help fill that time. A recap of Monday night reminds us that the judges pretty much loved everyone, but Poplyfe had the only hiccup of the bunch as lead singer Kelani struggled with nerves and emotions that affected her singing. Piers says Monday night was the best talent the show has seen in the finals. Each of finalists will be performing with one of their icons, and Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. is paired up with Patti Labelle. He's "floating on clouds," he says, before performing with the legendary singer. Def Leppard takes the stage to perform "Rock of Ages" and "Pour Some Sugar on Me." Afterward, Nick takes a moment to give us the behind-the-scenes look at the technical mishap that delayed Silhouettes' performance. It still isn't entirely clear what happened, but it seemed to have something to do with the big doors at the back of the stage not opening. Team iLuminate performs with the back Cobra Starship, whose members are decked out in outfits piped with lighting. We next get the standard run-through of the bizarre auditions from early in the season. And, of course, the "Audition All-Stars" take the stage. It starts terribly, when the first two singers are out of sync and, really, that was the highlight of the whole thing. Silhouettes are the next act to perform with an icon, and who's more all-American than Leann Rimes? No one! She sings while Silhouettes work their shadow magic behind her. One Republic performs a couple of songs after a featurette about how the judges pretend to have little rivalries. Then, Queen Latifah and Tony Bennett perform "Who Can I Turn To?" together. Poplyfe gets to perform with Stevie Wonder, and Kelani says he's the reason they do what they do. They perform "Higher Ground" together. Later, Cirque du Soleil's "Iris" cast performs, because -- well, why not? Some results: At long last, we get some results. Nick calls all four finalists to the stage and announces that Poplyfe is the first out of the running, finishing fourth. Kelani, crying, says they just had the "best experience of our lives" performing with their idol. Piers reminds them they came fourth in "the biggest talent show in the world" and tells them to be proud. After a break, Nick announces that the act finishing in third place and leaving the competition is ... Team iLuminate. Sharon looks stunned. She later says that Team iLuminate never disappointed throughout the season, and shakes her head at the reality of the fact that they're out. We get a reminder of Jackie Evancho and her stardom since finishing second on the show last season. She performs. Finally, down to Silhouettes and Landau Eugene Murphy Jr., Howie says they're "both phenomenal," but there's only one winner. He wishes them both luck. After a long, dramatic pause, Nick announces that... the... winner... of... "America's Got Talent"... is... Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.! Overwhelmed, Landau shakes his heads, cries a bit and is then mobbed by Silhouettes, who all gather around him for a group hug.

It finally comes down to this: The top four acts take to the stage one last time to compete for America's vote, and the winner will take home the $1 million grand prize. After a somewhat lengthy reflection on the season's memorable -- for better or worse -- moments, we get to, well, a commercial break. But after that, we get to some results. Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.: Landau talks about the road he's taken to the finals of "America's Got Talent," including when he found himself homeless at the age of 19 and thought he "was going to die." He sings the obvious, but perfectly fitting, "My Way." The epic build-up and big-note finish capped a dream season for Landau. The judges and the crowd stand in appreciation. Piers says Landau "sang that absolutely from your heart," and that it "was a million-dollar performance." Sharon says he gave her goosebumps and "it was perfectly sung." She appreciated that Landau "didn't play it safe." Howie says, "there's a real good chance that you just sealed the deal." Team iLuminate: The members of Team iLuminate get a little emotional when talking about what it would mean to win the competition. They certainly did not hold back with their final performance. The most intense, fast-paced and dynamic performance of the season from a team that has pushed the bounds of dance and technology all summer. Sharon says Norelle (the team's leader) came up with with a great idea, adding, "this act is about technology, creativity and someone with a vision," and she points out how this act is why "America's Got Talent" is different from other talent shows. She says singers rely on others' songs, and Team iLuminate creates everything from zero. Howie says they deserve to win, and encourages America to vote for something "spectacular," rather than voting based on popularity. Piers says they're an example of "what America needs right now" because they are "smart young people with great ideas, completely original, that can create a business, it creates jobs, it creates prosperity, it makes America great again." Be our guest: The show's crown jewel, Terry Fator -- who actually did land a Vegas show -- takes the stage to perform. Poplyfe: The youngsters say they didn't expect to make it this far and the lead singer recalls how no one showed up to their first show. She says they're taking another big chance tonight, performing songs by Queen. They start with a rousing "We Will Rock You," before going into "We Are the Champions." The crowd enjoys it. Howie says they're champions, but he's worried that some of the notes were a little off. A tearful Kelani (the lead singer) admits she was "feeling it too much." Piers asks her why she's crying. She says she wants people to understand how badly they want this. Piers says some of the singing was a bit shaky but they shouldn't be disheartened. Sharon reminds Kelani that she's "a star" and that even if the singing wasn't great, her passion was and she can bank on that. Some technical difficulties force us to watch some "highlights" (see: video footage that was handy) from earlier in the season. Silhouettes: The biggest group in the finals talk about what an experience it has been before getting to their final performance -- which is a trip around the world as they make shadow versions of various world landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, and polar bears in the Arctic. Short on time because of the difficulties, Piers says the performance was sensational and that America has a very difficult job in picking a winner. Sharon is also pleased and reminds everyone to vote. Howie says this is "the toughest vote" and again reiterates that viewers have to vote for their favorites to help create the outcome they want.

This is it. Almost. The entire summer has come down to this -- and a little more. The four finalists from the sixth season of "America's Got Talent" are about to be named -- after a fair amount of fluff. Sharon Osbourne says the anticipation has been killing her all day long. She notes this is the first time the show has had a band and a magician in the Top 10. Nick asks Howie about the goldfish from Landon Swank's illusion, and whether it actually survived the performance. Howie confirms, with video evidence that the fish did, indeed, make it. And he adds that the fish is now living in his house. To the results: Nick calls out the Smage Bros. and Team iLuminate. The Smages got overall good reviews from the judges, but Piers was the holdout who said it wasn't as good as their previous routines. Team Illuminate wowed the judges, who gave them a standing ovation. Howie says it's a tough call between the two acts, saying he's never seen anything like what the Smage Bros. do indoors. He then tells Team iLuminate that they are the second-most fun he can have in the dark. Sharon, accurately, calls the joke "hokey." Nick announces that the act moving on to the finals is ... Team iLuminate. Howie says he's thrilled and says "there's a good chance you're going to take this all the way." Nick next calls out Miami All Stars and Lys Agnes. We're reminded of all the great reviews Miami All Stars got before last night, when Piers buzzed them because, as he said, they became a "silly cheerleading act." It was much of the same for Lys, who was on the judges' good side until last night, when Howie and Sharon were pretty disappointed with her rendition of Aerosmith's "Dream On." Piers backed her up. Before the result is announced, Piers reminds everyone that this is about more than just last night and it's been a great season. He says they should be proud of themselves after having grown the way they have. Nick announes that the act moving on to the finals is ... (Lys is already tearing up, and has been since she walked onto the stage) ... neither. The leader of the All Stars says he's grateful to America, to NBC, to the city of MIami, for the amazing journey. Lys says Tuesday night was a big moment for her and thanks the people who see what she calls an artist's ability to express different things. Piers says he thinks we're going to hear more from both of them and wishes them luck. Poplyfe and Landon Swank are called out next. Poplyfe has enjoyed rave reviews all season, including Tuesday night when they went out with a Jackson 5 medley that earned them a standing ovation from everyone, including the judges. Landon has amazed the judges most of the way, but needed a wild card to stay in the competition. He's made the most of it, though, by flooring the judges with some amazing illusions. They loved Tuesday's routine, as well. Sharon says she loves both acts and she has mixed emotions seeing the two of them on stage together. She reminds them that they're standing there because America has voted them into the Top 10. She says this isn't the end, but just the beginnings of their careers. Nick announces that the act moving on is ... Poplyfe. Landon thanks everyone for their support and gets in a plug for his Twitter handle (@landonswank, if you're wondering). Be our guests: Nick introduces one of Simon Cowell's other creations, Il Divo, who perform the title song from their new album, "Wicked Game." Back to the results: West Springfield Dance team and Silhouettes are called to the stage. West Springfield has been a pretty big favorite of the judges all season, but Tuesday's performance fell flat and all the judges were unanimous in the sentiment that they've seen all West Springfield has to offer. Silhouettes, on the other hand, have been a judges' favorite all season and continued that streak with another highly praised performance on Tuesday night. Nick announces that the act going into the finals is ... Silhouettes. Howie reiterates his previous theory that this is the "year of the dance." He notes that Team iLuminate is already in the final. It's down to Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. and Anna Graceman, who are sitting pensively backstage. Both are staring at the ground as Nick somberly introduces them and escorts them to the stage. We're reminded of Anna Graceman's rise to the Top 10, but her Tuesday night performance drew some of her first criticisms of the season as Piers said she struggled in her lower register. Landau, meanwhile, seemed to hit his groove even bigger than he has all season. All three judges gave him big compliments, including Piers, who said he'd pay his own money to see Landau in a 90-minute concert. After a drama-filled introduction, Nick finally reveals that the act moving on to the finals is ... Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. He drops his head and looks over at little Anna, who claps graciously and hugs Landau before breaking down in tears as the crowd gives her a standing ovation. Landau says he's grateful but it's tough competing, especially against some of the kids like Anna, who have become friends. So that's it. The Final Four are: Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. Poplyfe Silhouettes Team iLuminate

It's down to the Top 10 on "America's Got Talent," and the finalists are set to perform for the judges and viewers' votes, hoping to capture one of the final four spots in next week's final. There is no judges' pick this week and all four picks will be in the hands of the voters. With 10 acts instead of 12, there's more time to fill, so we get to see a featurette of the acts meeting the judges at a swanky Hollywood hotel. We also get a reminder about Michael Grimm, the singer/guitarist who won last season. He performs and afterward gives an update on what he's been doing. He's on tour with Stevie Nicks, pushing his new album, got married and is working on his grandma's house. At last, some performances: Miami All Stars: The sizzling dance group's leader tells his story of coming from the streets of Chile to Miami in 1992 and becoming a dance teacher. "And here we are," he says. Sharon abruptly reminds us that a dance group has never won this show, but she thinks Miami All Stars have a shot. They put on a raucous, football-themed routine, complete with a mascot in an eagle outfit. It's as spicy and high-energy as ever, but Piers buzzes them halfway through. Nick asks if it was an accident. Piers says they "became a cheerleading act" and he didn't like what he calls the chicken suit. He says they went from an explosive dancing act to a cheerleading act with a chicken, and he thinks this was a mistake. Sharon agrees that she didn't love the theme and they could have come up with something more sophisticated and they let themselves down with the choreography. She says she doesn't think this performance will get them into the final. Howie understands that the NFL's kickoff this week prompted the theme, but it was more "all-American" than it was specifically "Miami." Lys Agnes: Lys talks about how her mother was her inspiration and was a singer in Vegas who wound up unemployed when her show was closed. She said she's always wanted to "fuse rock and opera together." She says she's taking a chance this week, with "a voice people haven't heard yet." She starts in a much lower pitch that usual and it all feels a little off. Sharon says she thought she was listening to Cher at the beginning. She says Lys lost the tone in her voice, but that last note "bombed." She wonders why Lys opted to take the register in the song lower than it was written for Steven Tyler. Howie says she's an amazing singer and talent, and notes that she got this far because she was doing something the audience was relating to. He wonders if she took too big of a risk. Piers tells her to ignore the others, and says "the worst thing you could've done right is come out and give us another version of what we've seen." He says she was in "perfect pitch in the lower register" and he says he "felt moved by that performance." Landon Swank: The illusionist from Alaska says it would be incredible to participate in a show across the street from David Copperfield, who he's been watching on TV since he was a child. Nick Cannon gives us the warning not to try this at home, and off Landon goes. He goes through a few different sleight of hand tricks, including the big finish, where he takes a goldfish and appears to force his hand into the glass front of a tank to send the little fishy home, but the tank then appears completely untouched when Landon's done. Howie has no words beyond noting that he's never seen conjuring don't to that level, and calling it "truly amazing." Piers says he's not sure what he saw, and asked Landon if it worked as expected. Landon says yes, and admits it's actually the first time it's worked correctly. Sharon says she loves Landon's execution and how he always looks so relaxed and smooth. Anna Graceman: Little Anna Graceman it's amazing to have come from such a small town (Juneau, Alaska), and now people know who she is. Anna says she's taking a "huge risk" by performing without a piano. She sings Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors." Piers tells her that she missed some notes, but when she goes to the big notes she's great. He says the "obvious comparison" is to Jackie Evancho last year, and that Jackie had perfect pitch. He says Jackie didn't have the big notes the way Anna does. Sharon says she would have liked to have seen Anna work the stage more, rather than standing on a fake grassy knoll -- and she remarks that she understands the knoll wasn't Anna's choice. Howie tells her that this performance wasn't as good as her last, but "it was still brilliant." He wants to see how everyone else does to see where Anna stacks up. Silhouettes: The leader of the group says there are members of the group that face life-threatening illnesses and conditions. With this performance, they're trying to send the message not to let any of life's obstacles keep you down. They perform a routine that includes people graduating from high school, becoming president, winning the Olympics, and get a huge standing ovation. Sharon loves it, calling it exquisite and a great message, too. She thanks them for delivering such beautiful performances week after week. Howie says this is "the first final act," as far as he's concerned, but reminds people they have to vote to make sure Silhouettes get into the finals. Piers says they did a great job of telling a story that "makes people proud of being an American," especially during a time of such economic difficulty and war. He says this was, "without a doubt, the best performance, for me, by a mile." Smage Bros.: The Smage Brothers talk about their assistant, Troy Smalls, "the unsung hero." He talks about having been hurt before by the brothers' bikes, but says, "I'll do whatever I have to do to make the Smage Brothers famous." This week, they pull off a bunch of skateboard-type tricks on ramps and a rail, while flying over Troy a bunch of times. Howie calls it exciting, but wants to make sure Troy is OK after a couple of close calls. Piers points out a couple of mistakes, saying he still loves them as an act but for a show in the Top 10 it was a little disappointing. Sharon asks why they don't just get it over with and beat up Troy already. Sharon disagrees with Piers, saying it was "just amazing." Poplyfe: The young singer from Poplyfe talks about how she's survived a feeling of not being wanted by being with her bandmates. Her father died when she was 3 and her mother had "some issues," which meant she bounced around to a few different homes. They go with another classic, a Jackson 5 medley, including "I'll Be There," "I Want You Back" and "Stop the Love You Save." The crowd roars with approval, and even Piers is coaxed into joining the standing ovation. Piers says it did deserve a standing ovation, because they're looking for an act that can entertain, inspire, have fun, make money and live the life of stars. He calls them "a great pop band." Sharon says it was a great idea to come up with the Jackson 5 medley, adding that there's such a great place for them in the industry right now. Then Sharon, pounding her fist on the table, accidentally hits her buzzer. Howie says, "Everybody in America, you are idiots if you do not start voting and put these people through to the finals." West Springfield Dance Team: The dancers say they owe everything to their coaches and they'll be bringing something completely unexpected this week. It starts with a girl running from some zombie-like creatures and then she appears to get away while the zombies start dancing. Piers buzzes them about halfway through. Sharon says it's "to predictable" for her now and there are no surprises anymore. Their dancing is precise as ever, but the lack of surprise is starting to become a problem. Howie says it was "good," but adds he doesn't think it stepped up from the last time. He doesn't think they're "living up to final capability." Piers says he would have liked them to surprise everyone and not done the horror stuff. He says the choreography was "quite boring," and that the judges kind of feel like they've "seen it." Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.: Saying the one thing Vegas is missing -- ironically -- is a crooner, Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. says he's willing to fill that void. After Landau sings Dean Martin's "Ain't That a Kick in the Head," Howie says he'd like to kick everyone in America in the head if they don't vote for him. Piers notes that Landau got his "mojo back," and adds that he and the judges were talking about who they would spend their own money to go see perform, and, for Piers' money, "it would be Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. Sharon says that's noteworthy because Piers is "really tight" (we're assuming she means with money). She calls Landau a real class act just tells people to "vote, vote, vote" for him. Team Illuminate: The leader of the group, who typically runs the computer portion of the program, will be performing with the group for the first time. She doesn't want to let the team down, but vows to give the performance of a lifetime. They put on another exciting and inspired performance that gets the crowd excited. Piers notes the crowd's reaction, saying it's been a night of big performances and they were "the icing on the cake." He says it was their best performance of the season and that after six seasons of doing the show he's never seen a more creative or dynamic act. Sharon says she cannot believe that they aren't already world famous. Howie says they were spectacular and tells viewers that this is "one of the best acts you can possibly see live." He says there are four acts standing out tonight, but stops short of reading off a list.

The Top Ten acts perform live in Hollywood for a chance at making it to the Final Four.

The final 12 semifinalists are back to compete for the remaining five spots in the finals on "America's Got Talent." Host Nick Cannon starts the show dangling from a harness above stage, so as to not jeopardize the Kinetic King's opening performance, which is already set up on the stage. Kinetic King: The Minnesota madman has been preparing a bigger and badder maze that consists of more than 700 rulers and who knows what else. He says he's looking to set a personal and word record with this performance and that if it works, he wants to hear victorious "woo-hoos" from across the country. He lets it fly and the whole thing goes off precisely as expected. He almost passes out in the excitement. Piers says it was "another spectacular performance," but that it wasn't quite as impressive as the previous one. Sharon disagrees, saying that a faster and louder maze was more entertaining. Howie agrees with Sharon, joking that he's always telling his wife that "faster is better." Fatally Unique: The dance team has had a great reception at home, with the mayor of their town dedicating a day to the group in their hometown of Illinois. They put on a fast, precise routine that gets the crowd going, with a theme in which the inmates overtake the asylum. Sharon is impressed with their speed and precision, saying it's "breathtaking" to watch them. She adds that this is "definitely the year of the mean dance, happy dance is dead." Howie reiterates his previous claims that "this is the year of the dance," but he wonders if they're up to the competition, specifically West Springfield Dance Team. Piers says he loves the intensity and determination in their routine, and says their act proved they want to win this. Landon Swank: The illusionist recruits his dad from Alaska to come help him build the illusion for the semifinals. In the suspenseful routine, there are four wooden boxes high above the stage, each connected to a detonator that will blow up a box when the three judges hit their buttons, leaving one unexploded. That's the one Landon says he'll be in, by simply guessing their choices. They explode three boxes and, indeed, Landon emerges from the fourth one unscathed. He then asks Piers to blow up the fourth box to prove it was wired, and it explodes. Howie is stunned, saying, "Just, wow." He says he was concerned last time because Landon came close to killing himself and this time the judges came close to killing him. Piers appreciates that Landon is making the most of the chances he's gotten on the show and says Landon just got very close to getting into the top 10. Sharon says her hands were shaking the whole time and she tells Landon that his whole presentation was fantastic. Gymkana: The high-flying acrobatics team is looking to build on its YouTube stardom, going with a fast-paced, timing-focused routine that their leader says could be disastrous if the timing gets lost and there's a collision. Piers buzzes them about halfway through and toward the end, the routine is stopped short when a ring of fire they're jumping through gets bumped and falls over, briefly entangling one of the members. Piers says he's sorry it went as badly as it went and he's glad they're OK, but he thinks the mistake is going to cost them. Sharon says she was looking for more performance and personality from them and didn't see it, but she still thought they were tremendous. Howie disagrees with Piers and Sharon, saying that they've grown a lot since the start. Summerwind Skippers: Looking to bounce back from their mistake in the previous round, the jump rope team wants redemption. Their act is well choreographed to the music, but there are a couple of noticeable slips and Piers buzzes them right at the end. Sharon says it's great to see the progression they've made and that they've turned into such great performers, "it's incredible." Howie says they won him over with their previous performance, and they brought "edge" to skipping. Then he apologizes for Piers' buzzing of them, saying they didn't deserve it and shouldn't be buzzed at this level. Piers says they're one of his favorite acts, but when he saw two mistakes, he had to buzz them in fairness to the other performers. Snap Boogie: The street dancer from Boston says he wants to get far in this competition for the sake of his family, and adds that he doesn't want to go back to the streets. He splits his act in two, with a heavenly, ethereal bit at the start before launching into a more fast-paced, high-intensity stretch. Howie says he was worried at first, but then Snap got into himself toward the end and he loved it. Piers says he didn't like, saying he'd been a fan in the past, but this time it was bordering on "cheesy." He didn't like the music or the choreography. Sharon says Snap has "such likability" but adds that she wasn't crazy about Snap's backup dancers. She says he doesn't anyone but himself. Anna Graceman: The youngest singer in the competition, 11-year-old Anna Graceman says she's going to try something she's never done before: a rock song with her own twist. Sure enough, she busts out Motley Crue's "Home Sweet Home." Piers says people would be amazed at where her big voice comes from if they could see how small she is in real life, and he says she gave, "so far, the best performance of the day." Sharon says she called Motley Crue so they could watch her perform, and she knows they'll think it was "absolutely amazing." She agrees it was "the performance of the night, so far." Howie keeps it short and sweet, simply saying, "Wow." Steven Retchless: The male pole dancer says he's been getting freaked out watching the show because some of the acts have done things he was intending to do, and we're shown a replay clip of Zuma Zuma members jumping from one pole to another. He says he had to change his routine to adapt. Not surprisingly, Piers buzzes him about halfway through. Sharon points out a particular favorite move in which Steven looked like he was walking on glass. She says she was worried when she heard Steven was bringing backup dancers, but they were fantastic and "it was just an amazing thing to watch." Piers reiterates that "it's not what guys should do," and says he can't see it being a million-dollar act in Vegas. Howie says he doesn't agree with Piers, and points out that Traces, a Broadway show, incorporates pole dancing and it can be a million-dollar act. Then he says he was focused on one of Steven's backup dancers, but he was great. Smage Bros.: The wild motorcycle stunt team pulls out all the stops, bringing family members along, including "Rad Grandma Smage," so they can have enough people to jump over. They do a bunch of cool tricks and flips, including some on a motorcycle with just one wheel. And it ends with a jump over about size family members who are laying on the stage. Piers gives a standing ovation and says their performance was "unbelievable." He says they did stuff he's never seen those kinds of stunts in close confined quarters such as the AGT stage. Howie says it was so exciting and scary, and notes that he once rode his tricycle over his grandma's toe when he was a little kid and he felt terrible. He says Grandma Smage's willingness to let the guys jump over her on motorcycles is "crazy, but amazing." Sharon loves the fact that the whole family gets involved. Professor Splash: The 57-year-old stunt man is cranking up the diving platform and the heat, trying a jump from 70 feet high into a pool of water 8 feet deep with fire on the surface. He pulls off the jump, with a toe-touch and full somersault before landing feet first in the water. Howie says he knows it was amazing, but it didn't seem as spectacular a look as jumping from the half the height into just 12 inches of water. Piers agrees, and wonders whether "we've seen the best of the Splash man," but says he's "incredibly entertaining." Sharon loved it and says she's scared of heights, even just sitting on a platform a couple of feet above the ground. Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.: After getting a heck of a reception back home, Landau hits the stage and puts on a Vegas-era, rat-pack style performance. Sharon loves it and says it's "cooler than I don't know what" and urges America to vote for him. Howie agrees that America "should get on board" and says that he deserves, with that performance, "to definitely be in the final." Piers says it wasn't Landau's best performance. He says he seemed nervous and stilted, and he missed some of the low notes. But when he hit the bigger notes, he loved, so it "wasn't a terrible performance," but he doesn't think it's a done deal that he'll be in the top 10. Silhouettes: The massive dance team that creates behind a backlit sheet includes members that are as young as 4. They create scenes from about the world in a big, dramatic presentation. Howie says they're "phenomenal," and it's amazing to see how they keep thinking of new ideas. He again says it's the year of the dance. Piers says he thought it was "very good," but he "didn't think it was great." He says this was a tough night and it'll come down to America's vote. Sharon adds that their act is endless because their concepts can go on and on, but she agrees that tonight's performance wasn't as strong as their last two, but she knows they'll come back with another concept and says what they do "is a thing of beauty."

Howie says that the 2011 Semifinals part 1 was *the* best episode in the six years so far. Inevitably, 'Results' is heart-breaking. After 6 have been dropped, Piers says both the 5th and 6th *would* belong in the Top 10 - but only one can.

Piers says the 2011 Semifinals are the most talented ever. Part 1: Zuma Zuma, Beth Ann Robinson, Sandou Trio, Kevin Colis, Matt Wilhelm, PopLyfe, WSDT, Melissa Villasenor, Team iLluminate, Daniel Joseph Baker, Miami All Stars and Lys Agnes.

This is it. The final four spots in the semifinals of this season of "America's Got Talent" will be claimed Wednesday night as the 12 wild-card acts will learn which made the most of their second chances and which will experience the bitter taste of elimination again. Howie Mandel says Tuesday was "a night of redemption" as most of the acts rose to the occasion. To the results: Shevonne, Yellow Design Stunt Team and West Springfield Dance Team are the first acts called to the stage for their verdicts. Shevonne was a favorite of the judges and they all agreed they made a mistake sending her home in the Vegas round. Yellow Design Stunt Team also got solid reviews from the judges, while West Springfield Dance Team came up a bit short -- with Piers and Howie saying they didn't improve on their previous performance. Nick points out that all three were Sharon's picks and she's distraught over it. The act moving on is ... West Springfield Dance Team. Be our guest: Celebrating its 25th anniversary is "Les Miserables," and the cast is on hand to perform the song, "One Day More." Later, Colbie Caillat takes the stage to perform her new song, "Brighter than the Sun." Back to the results: Avery and the Calico Hearts, Charles Peachock, Those Funny Little People and The Kinetic King are the next up. We're reminded of Piers buzzing the little kids, Charles dropping his knife, Piers hating Those Funny Little People and The Kinetic King's elaborate maze working to perfection. Piers throws the kids and Charles under the bus, then tells Those Funny Little People that if they got voted through, he will fly back to Britain and never come back to America. He then tells The Kinetic King that he's like Rocky Balboa, bouncing back when all the cards were down. He should be the pick, Piers says. And America's choice is ... The Kinetic King. He and Piers both stand and raise their arms triumphantly. Next are the two illusionists, all but guaranteeing that one of them, at most, is going through to the semifinals. They played up the battle between the illusionists all night on Tuesday, and it looks like the voters chose just one -- maybe. Howie says he can't choose, but it's pretty clear Landon's display was more remarkable, and he's the pick. Piers stands up and points at Howie, who tells Landon that the only thing that irks him is that Piers chose him. With three acts and just one spot left, the Summerwind Skippers, The Fiddleheads and J Chris Newberg head to center stage. The Skippers got pretty solid reviews from the judges, but Piers judged The Fiddleheads and J Chris, but he was on Piers' bad side from the start when he set up his act as a roast of the judge. The first of the three acts going home is ... J Chris Newberg, which gets big boos from the crowd. He says he "had so much fun" and "couldn't have done any better." One of the Skippers says they want to show how far their can take their act. The Fiddleheads' singer says they want to come back and bring their best, "and play the music that we love to play." Piers says it's a difficult decision and goes on to talk way too long before -- even evoking a bleep from the censors at some point, possibly over something Sharon said as she complained that Piers' mike should be turned off. Howie votes for The Fiddleheads because he brought them back, and Sharon cuts to the chase and pretty quickly votes for Summerwind Skippers.

"They thought their dreams were over," the opening graphics of Tuesday night's "America's Got Talent" episode tell us. "They were wrong." Twelve "wild-card" acts are getting a second chance to make a third impression with the judges and America in the hopes of claiming what will presumably be three more spots in the semifinals. A strategically placed mess of cans and sticks litter the stage, which can only mean The Kinetic King is back and probably going first. Host Nick Cannon, careful not to set off the elaborate display too soon, introduces the judges. Piers Morgan says each judge got to bring back four of the acts they thought missed "potential glory." He knocks Howie's choices, saying he "brought back four of the worst acts I can ever remember in the history of the show." Howie reminds us all that America will decide, not the judge, and he thinks he has "done America right." The Kinetic King: Piers' first wild card is, in fact, The Kinetic King. He's trying to bounce back from what he calls "the greatest kinetic disaster in history." He's "seriously spooked over what happened last time." He says he's trying to go on and do something "even bigger." The crowd roars as each big part of his maze of cans and sticks falls over, and it works all the way to the big finish, when about 10 large trash cans arranged in a pyramid tumble. Piers says "everyone in America doubted you" after what happened last time, but "tonight, Kinetic King, you proved you're the king, you're the man." Sharon agrees, saying she bows down to him. Howie says there's no other man in America who could be handed a bunch of cans, balls and sticks and do what he just did with them. The Kinetic King then, oddly, goes into what he calls "the fetal position of victory," laying on the stage and putting his thumb in his mouth. Those Funny Little People: The gnomes are back to torture Piers some more, and they're ready to take advantage of the opportunity. They think they'll win Piers over, but before their routine, he says it's a "complete waste of time." After their performance of They Might Be Giants' "Istanbul (Not Constantinople)" begins, Piers gives them a good 15 seconds before buzzing them. Then spends the rest of the time holding his face in his hands. Even Howie says he missed a lot of the act because he was watching Piers' face most of the time. Piers says Howie "turned the show into a total and utter mockery" by bringing them back, and refers to Howie as "the chief idiot." Sharon says they "definitely brought in the big guns." Avery and the Calico Hearts: Sharon's first pick are the trio of little girls who were devastated when they were eliminated. They're hugely thankful to Sharon for bringing them back. Howie says before the act starts that he doesn't think they're a headline act, but more like a Saturday morning cartoons accompaniment. Piers gives them about 30 seconds before buzzing them during their performance of Taio Cruz's "Dynamite." Sharon cheers like crazy and says she's so proud to say they were her pick. Nick asks Piers if he's going to buzz every act that's not him, and Piers says he wanted to buzz Nick for the suit he's wearing. Nick actually thinks pretty fast on his feet, telling the judge he has to lead by example and then asking Piers (who's wrapped up in accusations of phone hacking while he was a tabloid editor in the U.K.), "Aren't you in enough trouble already?" Piers tells the girls he buzzed them because he still thinks it's too early for them to win a competition like this. He urges them to keep practicing and they'll "be terrific." Howie says he agrees with what Piers is saying, but he doesn't think they deserved a buzz. He says, "It's wrong, it's mean, and let's move on." Seth Grabel: Pulling off what Nick calls "a reappearing act," illusionist Seth Grabel comes back as one of Howie's picks. Howie says he felt really guilty casting the vote for Professor Splash that sent Seth packing. He had to bring him back. Piers also brought an illusionist back, so it's a big showdown. In an illusion that seems to take a while to get going, Seth eventually makes a DeLorean appear on stage holding what he calls the judges from the past -- and they're miniature versions of Howie, Sharon and Piers. Howie says he did good in bringing Seth back. He says Seth showed that Howie has good taste. Piers says it was "exactly like Howie -- a lot of show, a lot of flashing going on" but it was light on substance. Shevonne: We didn't see singer and guitarist Shevonne on the live stage because she was cut in Vegas, but Sharon wants to see how she'll do with another chance. She says she'll be singing to all of America, but especially to her mom. Sharon says Shevonne took her breath away and hopes that voters realize this is her first time on the live stage. She says Shevonne did herself proud. Howie says he thinks the judges made a mistake sending her home in Vegas and that he's "so thrilled" that Sharon chose to bring her back. Piers, who notably didn't buzz, says he's in a very unusual position of agreeing with Howie. He agrees they were wrong to send her home in Vegas and with more practice and experience she "could be really good." West Springfield Dance Team: The dark, creepy dance group is back, as Sharon already promised. She said as soon as they were voted off that she'd bring them back as one of her wild cards, and her kept that promise. They've put together a routine in five days that one of the choreographers says they'd normally rehearse for six months. Sharon seems quite pleased, saying it's "unique, very different" and that there's an audience for them. Howie agrees that they're very good, but he doesn't think this performance stepped up from the last performance. Piers wonders if he's under the weather because he's again agreeing with Howie's point that it wasn't a bigger or better performance than the last time. J Chris Newberg: Howie brings J Chris Newberg back after being voted off and says it was like being in love and then finding out that the women you're in love with is sleeping with 47 other contestants. He says he's reviewed all of his performances and was happy with them all except for one thing: Piers. The crotchety judge says he's pretty confident that no matter what J Chris does tonight, he's going to hate it. J Chris tells us that "Piers drew first blood" and he's been training for this fight. J Chris turns it into a straight roast of Piers. He brings up phone hacking, tells Piers that he's "made more children cry than divorce," and says that Piers has "made a career out of being 'the other' -- the other Simon Cowell, the other Larry King, the other guy your wife sleeps with." Howie says it was funny, and that "this wins it all." Piers plays along, saying, "Obviously I found your material, deeply offensive, woefully inaccurate, completely inappropriate -- and funny." Sharon tells J Chris he's "got balls of steel" and says it was "amazing." She concisely says, "It was very good. Very, very good." Yellow Designs Stunt Team: The BMX stunt team admits they were crushed when they were booted, and they're vowing to "wow America like they've never been wowed before." They offer up a pirate-themed performance that gets through with no buzzes. Sharon, who brought them back, says it "worked superbly." She loves the sense of excitement they bring, adding, "it's exciting, it's dangerous, it's everything I love." Howie likes the themes they put together. Piers says it's the only act he can remember where when they make a mistake it actually makes the performance more entertaining. Piers says the movement they've made in the competition is almost better than any other act. Charles Peachock: The man who wants to bring juggling into the next century is brought back by Piers. He says he knew he was taking a risk when he abandoned the dangerous juggling stuff in favor of playing the piano with bouncing balls. He says he's "risking it all tonight." He first juggles balls on fire, then while trying to balance a sword on another sword from his forehead, he juggles three knives and drops one. It's clearly a disappointment and even Piers can't deny it. Piers says he thinks Charles "blew it." He abandoned his rule of buzzing a juggler who dropped something, only because he was the one who brought Charles back. Sharon says it was disappointing, and Howie agrees, but he's thrilled Charles kept his shirt on. The Fiddleheads: Howie's last pick is The Fiddleheads, who abandoned their own approach in favor of something suggested by the show's producers, are deciding to go back to the basics. They give their bluegrass treatment to Bruno Mars' "Grenade" and the crowd seems to love it. Piers buzzes them about two-thirds of the way through, though. Howie says he picked them because he thought they had strength and he thinks they brought it. Piers says, "This group doesn't work as a group." After a chorus of boos, Piers says the lead singer is better than the group around him. Sharon says she does not agree with Piers. She says they were back in their comfort zone. Summerwind Skippers: Piers says he didn't really get the jump ropers until the first live show. He now thinks they deserve another chance. Their routine was put together more quickly this time, and it includes ropes that are on fire. There's a mishap early on but they bounce back and get through the rest of the act unscathed. Piers points out the big mistake, but says it's how they recovered that saved them. He says it's like the bike stunt team, and it's more about how they recover from a mistake. He says they made a "great recovery, great job." Sharon then quotes Piers from earlier in the competition, saying they make skipping sexy. Howie admits he didn't see it being a headlining show until this performance and they made it fun and edgy enough to be just that type of show. Landon Swank: Piers' illusionist choice is Landon Swank, whose presentation was lacking the last time he performed. Piers says Landon was the first wild card on his list. He's ramping up the danger by chaining himself to the bottom of a tank of water while handcuffed and giving himself one minute to escape. He not only escapes but switches places with his assistant, which ends up in the tanks. Sharon and Howie stand in appreciation. Piers says calls it a proper trick that was executed perfectly and says that Landon will go through to the semifinals. Sharon says he's a really sexy magician, which doesn't happen a lot. Howie says it "was fabulous." He notes that there's "no rule saying that one magician can go through."

The night after 12 acts straight from YouTube took to the "America's Got Talent" stage, only four of them would move on in hopes of becoming this season's Jackie Evancho -- the young opera singer who was discovered through the YouTube auditions last season and went on to take second place in the competition. After the requisite weekly fashion pointers from Piers Morgan toward Nick Cannon, who, before long, calls for the first acts to hear their results: Fymkana and Powerhouse. To the results: Gymkana and Powehouse both received fairly good marks from the judges, even thought Howie thought Powehouse was "Glee"-Light. Piers says he's surprised to see the two acts sharing the stage, saying that if one was going home he'd be shocked. The act going on to the semifinal is ... Gymkana. Be our guests: Tay Zonday hits the stage to perform one of the shortest guest acts in the history of the show, "Chocolate Rain." He's followed by another YouTube star: Keenan Cahill, who performs his lip-synched rendition of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" and other stuff. Next, OK Go performs "All Is Not Lost." What YouTube stars show could be complete without Rebecca Black? Not this one. She hits the stage with a mash-up of her song, "Friday," and her new single "My Moment." Later, a hand-slapping and tap-dancing duo called Up & Over performs to the song, "Hands." Back to the results: Matt Wilhelm, TNC Elite and Aeon are the next group called to the stage. Matt Wilhelm seems to have won over the judges the night before, wowing them with this glow-in-the-dark bike stunts. The act moving on to the next round is ... Matt Wilhelm. Next, Kalani Basketball Freestyle, Brett Daniels, Kevin Colis and Breena Bell. Of the bunch, Kevin seemed to have won over the judges the most -- as they said he had a chance against a relatively weak male singers field. The judges gave Brett high marks for his illusion, but weren't wild about his presentation. Breena was told, for the most part, that she should come back in a few years, and Kalani stumbled by dropping his basketball at least once. The act moving on to the next round is ... Kevin Colis. Finally, West Springfield Dance Team, Gabe Rocks and Beth Ann Robinson head to the stage. West Springfield and Beth Ann Robinson got the most unanimous approval from the judges, and Piers didn't much care for Gabe's shenanigans. The first of the three acts to go home is Gabe Rocks. Given one last chance to make their cases to the judges, one of the West Springfield dancers promises more to show the judges. Beth Ann says she's worked "really hard" and has a lot more to offer. After a commercial break, Piers says it's a tough choice between the two acts, but finally gives his vote to Beth Ann Robinson, saying he's most excited to see more from her in the next round. Sharon says she knows Beth Ann is going on to do great things, but turns her attention toward West Springfield Dance team and says she wants to keep them in it. Down to Howie, he says he loves the dance team's originality. Saying it's the "year of dance," he decides to keep Beth Ann Robinson in the competition. After the result, Sharon points out that West Springfield Dance Team should come back to the wild-card show next week. So, they have another chance, along with .... Landon Swank, The Kinetic King, Summerwind Skippers, Charles Peachock, Yellow Designs Stunt Team, Shevone, J. Chris Newberg, Those Funny Little People, Seth Grabel, the Fiddleheads and Avery & the Calico Hearts.

Twelve contestants pulled from YouTube, which we're quickly (and often) reminded provided one of last year's breakouts in little singer Jackie Evancho, are up this week on "America's Got Talent." After the requisite ribbing between host Nick Cannon and judge Piers Morgan, Piers tells us that some of the acts seems pretty good and some "have the potential to go horribly wrong." TNC Elite: A group that is proud to bring clogging to Hollywood, with routines set to modern music. The group of about a dozen dancers from Charlotte, N.C., puts on a pretty impressive display of quick feet. Piers says it wasn't bad, even though he's not a clogging fan, and ultimately thinks it was "pretty good." Sharon says she doesn't know whether it worked and that the clogging may have been fighting with the music. Howie thinks they'll "need to do more" to do well in the competition. He says now that he's seen it on stage, "it's really good on YouTube." Brett Daniels: A 50-year-old illusionist from Milwaukee says he's enjoyed a lot of success in magic and he "lost it." He's looking to reinvent himself on the show, bringing back something he hasn't done in 15 years. Doing what he bills a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, Brett makes "her" appear from a portrait hanging high above the stage. Piers buzzes him. Sharon says she liked it all, but the presentation was a bit slow. Howie says the illusion was "incredibly original" but he questions the performance. He says he sees potential. Piers says the trick was fine, but notes "it's an old trick." He says he got bored with the middle bit, but is interrupted by Howie playing with a fart machine. Piers says it's disrespectful to the performers who are competing for $1 million. Gabe Rocks: A bulldog from Bellingham, Wash., who does some tricks, including one he's going to try that his owner says is one of the most difficult dog trucks that only a few dogs can do. She has him sit on a rocking horse, hit a buzzer with an X on it as an impression of Piers, and has him lift his leg on a cut-out of Piers, which causes Piers to buzz. Piers calls it "a completely pointless act." Sharon tells Gabe she loves him and says she knows how hard it is to train a bulldog. She says, "This dog is worth a million dollars." Howie says America is going to fall in love with Gabe. Aeon: A parkour group from L.A. has "spot-on" technique, according to Sharon. Replicating their street moves on a tight stage will prove to be a challenge. Piers buzzes them before too long as it seems their moves just aren't translating onto a stage setting with props. He says it was poorly coordinated and choreographed. He says they missed some moves, which they deny, causing Piers to comment on their large egos. Sharon says it's "very clever, but it was very repetitive." Howie disagrees with both, saying that it was edgy and active and he liked it. Breena Bell: An 8-year-old dancer and contortionist from Lincoln, Ala., made Howie wonder if she actually has bones when he saw her on YouTube. Before she starts, Nick warns Piers that if he buzzes her, he's "truly evil." He does just that, and Nick tells her she was "outstanding, but there are ogres in the world." Piers says he's trying to keep the competition honest. He says she's a very gymnast and should be looking to enter the Olympics because that's where her talent is. Sharon agrees with Piers, saying it's a bit early for her to go on in the competition, but she should continue performing. Howie says she will have a good shot i the contest in a few years, when she's older and even stronger. Kevin Colis: A 33-year-old musician from New Braunfels, Texas, says he's always felt music was meant for him, but he gave up on it after turning 30. His fiancee signed him up for the competition. He says this is his "last shot" and he's "going to go for it." He sings Bruno Mars' "The Lazy Song." Howie thinks he did great, but he's in a "really tough category with other singers in this competition." Piers says he's got a good voice and says the singing category is not as strong as it's been in past years, "so who knows -- you might be two songs away from a million dollars." Sharon says that if this is Kevin performing nervous, he'll "be phenomenal" as he gets more comfortable. Beth Ann Robinson: A 14-year-old dancer from Alabama is amazed to be on the show. She says she has an intense and unique dance style. Piers says the show's warming up and that Beth Ann was really good. He wonders, though, whether a solo act like this can win. Sharon says Beth Ann's movement is "effortless" and that she's "a very special lady." Howie agrees with both, saying it looks like Beth Ann eats, sleeps and breathes dance. He wonders whether America will respond to this form of dancing, but regardless, she's going to be a star. Gymkana: An acrobatic team that accepts anyone who wants to learn about the craft and is based on each group teaching the next comes to the show. The group does a pretty cool routine that's centered around two very tall ladders and dancers hanging off of them. Sharon can't believe they aren't professionals, saying "it was incredible." Howie says they fall under the category of "What will they think of next?" He says it's amazing. Piers pokes fun at Nick's socks, then says the routine was good, but a little repetitive. He calls it "brilliant" for their first time up. Kalani Freestyle Basketball: A guy from Hawaii says all he had was a basketbal to get through some hard times growing up. Howie calls him a one-man Harmlem Globetrotters, based on his YouTube performances. Piers buzzes him immediately after Kalani dropped one ball while trying to spin one ball on top of another. Piers says he was willing to let one mistake slide, but not two. Sharon says she understand it's daunting because he's not a pro at it. West Springfield Dance Team: A dance team that promises to be different and more intense and downright scary. Piers says they were one of the most intriguing acts based on the YouTube video. He says they did live up to the potential he thought they had. Sharon says she loves all the drama to their performance but they might want to think about their name. Howie says they're going to have to be great to compete with the other dance groups in the competition -- and they are. Matt Wilhelm: A bike trick artist who got the most votes on YouTube for the competition calls his act "breakdancing on a bike." Wearing a full body suit that glows because of black lights, Matt shows off some moves on his bike that are reminiscent of Fighting Gravity. Sharon says it's a really great act and the bike is his dance partner. She calls it "very special, very different." Howie says "America never gets it wrong," and there is a reason why America gave him more votes than any other act. He thinks there's a full act here. Piers believes Matt is going to have America on his side, and again brings up Jackie Evancho. Powerhouse: A high school choir that takes it to another level comes out and sings Katy Perry's "Firework." Howie gives his first buzz of the night. Piers says the performance made him happy "in a very strange way." He calls it the cheesiest thing he's ever seen, but it makes him happy. Sharon says it makes her "very happy." She says they made her want to come up on stage and sing with them. Howie says he wasn't as happy, saying "Glee" has set the bar, and "this was 'Glee' Light." He says "America's Got Talent" needs something beyond that.

After a night of standing ovations and big-time debacles, it's time to see which four acts will be moving on to the next round of "America's Got Talent." After Piers gets in his weekly assessment with host Nick Cannon's outfit (which he likes this week), we get to some results. Nick calls for Frank Miles, Avery and the Calico Hearts and Taylor Davis and Fatally Unique. Frank's trick was dangerous and interesting, but just missed knocking a donut off his head, which was the intended outcome. Avery and the Calico Hearts got mixed reviews (Piers thinks it's too early for them while Howie and Sharon love them). Taylor also got mixed reviews, with Piers thinking he sang out of tune while Howie and Sharon thought he did well. Fatally Unique got good news from all the judges. Sharon says she can't call it, but says she's shocked that Taylor is there, even though no result has been announced yet. The act moving on is Fatally Unique. Piers says no other act has worked harder to improve and says they've "got a real chance of winning the whole thing" if they continue to improve. Nick announces that there will be wild cards this season and there's a poll on the website for fans to make their suggestions. This announcement is followed by a sort of fun bit in which Howie shows the cameras around behind the scenes, and ultimately pulls a prank on Piers. Be our guest: Jason Derulo performs two songs from his upcoming album "Future History." Later, Maroon 5 performs its new song, "Moves Like Jagger." Back to the results: Nick calls for Zuma Zuma and Yellow Design Stunt Team. Zuma Zuma got high marks from the judges. Yellow Design Stunt Team had a mishap when one of the guys fell on a bike flip, but the judges still thought highly of the whole act. Piers says he hopes both acts go through because they both did themselves proud. The act moving on to the next round is ... Zuma Zuma. Howie says this is a surprise and he can't imagine what they will do next. Next, illusionist Scott Alexander, Team iLuminate and Sam B are called up. Scott wowed the crowd with a disappearing gospel choir routine, even though Howie thought it lacked some showmanship. Team iLuminate got a standing ovation from the judges after putting on what Sharon called "a world-class act" and what Howie called "the best thing I have seen on this show." Sam B might be a guilty pleasure, but Piers was fed up and X'd him. The act moving on is Team iLuminate. Sharon says it was "so obvious" who was moving on when they were up there with the other acts, not trying to be disrespectful. She says they could "fill any arena." Charles Peachock, The Kinetic King and Melissa Villasenor are the last to get their results. Charles was buzzed by Howie and Sharon, but Piers thought it was one of the best juggling acts he's seen. The Kinetic King was "baffled," in his own words, by his "disaster" of a performance. Melissa got high marks from Sharon and Howie, and Piers thought some was good and some was not so good. America's vote sends The Kinetic King home first. Given a chance to make his case, Charles tells the judges that his dream has been to "get juggling out of the circus tent and into the 21st Century." Nick calls Charles' speech "very Presidential." Melissa says she loves what she does and "the audience is my best friend" and thanks "everyone for everything." Sharon casts her vote for Melissa. Piers says he thinks Charles would have the best chance of winning, and votes for Charles. Howie casts his vote for Melissa, and she's moving on.

The votes are in and four acts from the previous night's performance show move on to the top 24 to continue their pursuit of the $1 million prize -- and be one step closer to becoming the most talented act in America.

The "America's Got Talent" results show starts with a bizarre cross-promotion of the new "Smurfs" movie, with the little blue critters walking all over the judges' table and pulling the judges into some awkward banter. To the results: Ian Johnson, the Summerwind Skippers and the Purrfect Angelz are up first. Ian's yo-yoing was good but the judges weren't sure if could hold up for a Vegas show; the Skippers blew most everyone away; and the Angelz were generally sort of boring. The act making it into the next round is ... no one! They're all out. Piers is surprised, especially about Summerwind Skippers because he thought they delivered. He says that's a big shock. Be our guest: Stevie Nicks takes the stage to offer up the TV debut of her new single "For What It's Worth." Later, an old favorite act, Fighting Gravity, takes to the stage for another mind-blowing performance. They say they're still working on their show, building something bigger and better, and hope to have a show on Broadway or Vegas by this time next year. Finally, Stevie returns to perform her classic, "Edge of Seventeen." Back to the results: Next up are Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. Both acts sent the judges wild and one can only expect they're both going through, given the first group's result. And that's exactly what happens. There are hugs all around, and even members of Poplyfe are hugging Nick. Landau is thankful for the opportunity. Sharon says she was really worried to see these two acts up against each other and she's "absolutely delighted" they're both through. Up next are Mauricio Herrera Captain & Maybelle, Lys Agnes and Monet. Mauricio was buzzed twice, Captain & Maybelle grossed everyone out, Lys was solid but "didn't move" PIers, and Monet was just considered a little young. The act moving into the next round is Lys Agnes. She says she's overwhelmed. Finally, Sh'Boss Boys, Professor Splash and Seth Grabel are the final three acts remaining, and hoping for the last spot in the next round. All three were intriguing to the judges. The first act out of the running is ... Sh'Boss Boys. They look pretty sad and on the verge of tears, but Nick reminds them of how much fun they've had and they all smile and agree it was a fun experience. Professor Splash says he should stay in because he's got more to offer. Seth says he also has "so much more to show." It's down to the judges. Sharon says they both deserve to be here, but her pick is Seth. Howie breaks it down to "you work hard (to Seth), you risk your life (to Professor Splash)" and chooses Professor Splash. Piers weighs the same two options and finally decides upon ... Professor Splash, saying he's the act that has the best chance of winning.

Another set of 12 hopefuls are up on "America's Got Talent," and four spots in the semifinals are up for grabs. Wasting no time getting to the action, host Nick Cannon calls for the first act. Summerwind Skippers: The jump rope sextet from Boise, Idaho, vows to bring a new level of choreography and performance to their act. They offer up a high-intensity, mistake-free performance with flips and tremendous timing. Piers is blown away, noting that he didn't like their performance in Vegas, but they turned it all upside down this week. Sharon agrees, saying they made the act "all very current, and it doesn't look like you're in the schoolyard anymore." Howie says it's "amazing to see, in a short dose," but it's up to America to decide whether they want to see more. Sh'boss Boys: The tiny trio of rappers, 5, 6 and 7 years old, are coming strong with a new routine, new props and ready to do whatever they have to do to win. With backup dancers in tow, they start with a bit of the Jackson 5's "ABC," before declaring "that's old school, we're new school," and launching into their own song. Sharon says they thoroughly entertained her and she wants to hug them because they're so darn cute. Howie says they're adorable and that America is going to love them. The 6-year-old calls out the producers, saying the producers told them to do "45 minutes of 'ABC' and 45 minutes of our own" song, and Piers tells them to ditch the "ABC" bit and stick to their own stuff because it's "brilliant." Mauricio Herrera: Mauricio has lost 19 pounds, but none of the spunk. He's loving life in Hollywood and Sharon says she hopes people get the humor in what he's all about. Piers buzzes him not too long into his intro bit of Elvis Presley's "Viva Las Vegas." Sharon soon has a bit less of the fun than she was expecting, buzzing him shortly into Mauricio's rendition of Tom Jones' "Delilah." Howie says he loves Mauricio, but understands why others are buzzing him. Piers says he gets the humor in it, but if he was staying at a hotel and an act like Mauricio came on at night, he'd go back to his room, pack his bags and leave. Sharon says the "galloping" threw her off, but he is "a lot of fun to watch." Seth Grabel: Seth is hoping to redeem himself after his illusion malfunctioned in Vegas and he was given another chance. He says this performance puts his life at risk. He starts by being suspended from a straight jacket, then falls into a vat and is carried over to a cannon, where he's apparently shot across the stage and into a pool of water, except you don't see him cross the stage and he magically appears from the tank of water. Howie loves it, saying he was totally impressed and has no idea how it was done, and hopes America votes for Seth. Sharon says it was "very dramatic," the production value was incredible and she's never seen that trick before. Piers calls it bigger, better, faster, slicker and, ultimately, Seth's best routine so far. Poplyfe: The band of youngsters has to convince Piers that it's more than just a lead singer, but they're worried that she's lost her voice in advance of the live performance. She seems fine as they rock out a version of Adele's "Rolling in the Deep." Sharon says they took a big risk and it paid off because she was impressed and hopes America will bring them back. Howie dittos everything Sharon said and proclaims them "the best act of the night." He reminds voters that they have to cast their votes and not assume other people will. Piers again points out that the lead singer's performance was again tremendous. He adds that "tonight, I saw the point of the band" because they were brilliant. Ian Johnson: Ian says he's trying to bring the yo-yo back and reminds the ladies that he's single. He's setting out to prove people who think the yo-yo can't be turned into a Vegas. He brings high intensity and some cool tricks, but one minor stumble brings a buzz from Piers. Later, his big finishing move also falls. Howie says there's no doubt Ian will be the best yo-yo artist in the world, but he's not sure it's a Vegas act. Piers tells Ian he made the yo-yo as exciting as it could possibly be, but "it's still bloody boring." Sharon says she likes it but wants to see some more of Ian's personality into the performance. Piers asks how that's possible and Sharon tells him that just because he's having a terrible day doesn't mean he should take it out on Ian. Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.: Landau is riding his "don't judge a book by its cover" approach, aiming to surprise viewers with the voice that comes out of him. He vows to "be the entertainer that I was born to be." After a somewhat stiff and shaky start, he seems to get his rhythm on Frank Sinatra's "Fly Me to the Moon." Piers says Landau is a serious player because he heard some of the sound check earlier and it was terrible, but the live performance was great. Sharon says she can't tell Landau how proud she if of him and how hard he's worked to get there. Howie says Landau is still on track to change his life. Purrfect Angelz: The octet of former NFL and NBA cheerleaders are looking to land their own show in Las Vegas. One of the dancers injured her leg during rehearsals. Their Country-themed dance had them climbing ropes and pretending they were riding horses. Howie said he wanted to order the chicken wings because he felt like he was in the best Hooters he's ever been to. Piers, who buzzed them, says it was a "terrific performance" but doesn't see them moving on. Sharon says it was a great performance with fun choreography, but she wonders whether it's worth $1 million. Monet: A young singer we didn't see much of during the audition rounds explains that her family lost its home in Hurricane Wilma in 2005. The 12-year-old is dedicating her performance of the song, "Home," to her mom, because "wherever she is, that's where home is for me." Howie talks about the passion and heart she has when she sings, and those things make up for the fact that she missed some notes. Piers reminds everyone of Jackie Evancho and says "girls like that don't come around very often." He says he didn't buzz her because she has a lot of promise, but this is "probably as far as you're going to go in the competition." Sharon notes that Jackie could probably afford voice lessons and Monet likely could not, given what she's been through, and she did very well. Captain & Maybelle: The wild husband-and-wife sideshow vows to step it up for this round, but the judges aren't sure they want to watch. Captain & Maybelle go through some tricks, with him swinging a frying pan from a chain that's hooked into his tongue piercing, and her swinging the same pan on a chair hooked through her nostril. But the big finish is when the Captain hooks a tea kettle on two chains into his bottom eye sockets and swings them around. The judges didn't see most of it, as they turned around in disgust. Piers calls them the sickest two people in America, which prompts a high five. Sharon admits she didn't see much of it. Howie can't find words to describe it. Lys Agnes: We're reminded of Lys' fiancee's passing, and that's what drives her performance. She says she's had so much sorrow in her life that it's time for the joy the competition is bringing her. Piers says she's very talented but her performance didn't knock him out. It didn't move him, he says, and with the opera singers he has to feel moved. Sharon says she was moved and it came across for her "quite beautifully." Howie says she definitely moved him. Professor Splash: Professor Splash talks about how at the age of 50, the exhilaration of making a splash is still as great as it was when he was a child. The show goes outside for his stunt: a bellyflop from more than 36 feet high into a pool with just 12 inches of water. Howie's speechless and Professor Splash he can expand on the act with fire and more. Piers calls it the most bizarre, stupid, dangerous and sensational stunt he's seen. Sharon agrees it was absolutely fabulous.

After lots of buzzes and general disappointment, things finally started to heat up toward the end of Tuesday's performance show on "America's Got Talent." But will America's votes line up with what the judges thought? It's time to find out as four more acts will be moved on to the next round of the $1 million competition. Host Nick Cannon tells Piers Morgan he was "drinking some Hate-orade" last night. Piers says he actually got it wrong: He should have buzzed at least two more acts. To the results: The Rhinestone Ropers, Thomas John and Silhouettes are called to the stage. In what must be the least dramatic results revelation of the night, the uber-patriotic Silhouettes must easily be the ones to move on out of this bunch. Right? Right? Asked for her opinion, Sharon even admits it's "quite obvious" to her. Sharon even laughs a little as Nick tries to drum up the drama. Thomas John mockingly crosses his fingers just before Nick reveals that Silhouettes are moving on. Piers says he's already excited about what they're going to do in the next round. Be our guest: Hot Chelle Rae stops by to perform its summer hit, "Tonight, Tonight." Later, the touring music and acrobatics show Traces performs, earning a massive standing ovation for showing off some tremendous skills. Back to the results: Steven Retchless, Attack Dance Crew and Geechy Guy are called to the stage and, again, it seems like the result is pretty obvious (this could be a theme tonight. Despite Piers not getting Steven, saying there's a reason there are no male pole dancing clubs, it seems clear that America is on board with Steven. Howie is asked for his thoughts and agrees that America might not "brace the outrageousness of a male pole dancer." Perhaps America is more open minded than expected. Steve Retchless is through to the next round. Sharon urges Steven to just be himself. Next up are Daniel Joseph Baker, Dani Shay and Dylan Andre, and, once again, the choice seems fairly clear. Piers says he wasn't thrilled with Dylan or Dani but that Daniel Joseph Baker should take it. He's right. It's Daniel Joseph Baker. Finally, Smage Bros. Riding Show, Mona Lisa and Landon Swank come to the stage. One of the acts will be dismissed based on votes and that act is ... Mona Lisa. Down to Smage Bros. Riding Show and Landon Swank, the judges have to make the only tough decision of the evening. Sharon is put on the spot first and says Smage Bros. performance was sensational. She says she's been a fan of Landon's from the beginning, but her vote has to go with Smage Bros. Piers says they're very different acts and eventually votes for Landon. The whole decision is left to Howie, who seems uncomfortable. He says the Smage Bros. are very exciting and scary, but Landon Swank has shown him the best illusion he's ever seen, so he is "truly an amazing act." Howie wants to pick both, but since he can't, he has to go with the most exciting thing he saw Tuesday was the Smage Bros., so they're in.

It's the second of four quarterfinal nights on "America's Got Talent," when 12 acts will perform to claim one of four spots in the next round on the way to the $1 million grand prize. Attack Dance Crew: An octet of dancers who Howie didn't really get during the audition rounds are basking in the new attention they're getting from the ladies. Howie vows that he'll have to see something spectacular to change his mind about how they're essentially a cheerleading squad. The crowd cheers a pretty ho-hum dance performance and Howie doesn't look impressed. Piers says he liked parts of it, but wasn't massively pleased with the choreography, saying it was a bit of a mess and "needs to be tighter." Sharon agrees that "the choreography wasn't spectacular" and she wanted to see moves she hasn't seen before. Howie says he still feels the way he did before. Howie says he was going to say what Piers said and quips that Piers must have "hacked" him. Dani Shay: The singer who first found her place in the competition by playing up her appearance to Justin Bieber. She blew her Vegas audition but the judges gave her a second chance and she wants to prove she was worth it. She sings David Gray's "Babylon" in an elaborate living-room set that we later learn has real pictures of her as a baby. Sharon says Dani did "amazing." She loved "the purity" of the performance and that she sang with passion. Howie says that Dani's one fallback is her choices. He understands she wants to say something with her songs, but she's missing the popularity aspect of the show. He's worried people won't connect with her song choice. Piers says it was a good performance, but, on the negative side, there were parts of the singing that were off key. He also agrees with Howie about the song choice question. Geechy Guy: Howie loves him, Piers hates him. Geechy Guy is ready to take his odd looks and style to the next level. He says that since a comedian has never won the show and maybe this is the year. Piers likely thinks not, having buzzed Geechy Guy about three one-liners in. Howie wonders whether Geechy Guy is good enough to win, but he's a good comic and deserves to make a living. Piers says listening to Geechy Guy's routine is "like being smashed on the head every five seconds by a giant hammer." He calls it "one of the single least funny things I have ever had to watch." Sharon says she gets the silliness about his act and sums it up by telling him he's "silly." Daniel Joseph Baker: The Texas kid who talks often about being bullied back home says he feels like he belongs in Hollywood and says he'll be "turning up the fierceness, times a million dollars." He sings Lady Gaga's "Edge of Glory." Piers says he sees the fire in Daniel's belly. He says the singing wasn't perfect but he likes Daniel as a performer, saying he's naturally entertaining. Sharon says it was fantastic and called Daniel a very special person and "a star." Howie says Daniel is "like the next Lady Guy-Guy." Howie says Daniel has to be on the stage, not singing in front of his mirror.' The Rhinestone Ropers: After showing off knives, guns and spinning on wheelers, they've brought a horse. Things seem a little slow and generally off. Piers buzzes them. We later learn that Lucky Joe, the horse, relieved himself a couple of times on stage. Sharon says it was "lovely and nice" but reminded her of Steve Martin trying to entertain his kids in the movie, "Parenthood." Howie says the guns and knives were really big and exciting and this was a little too tame. Piers says it "was a complete trainwreck" and he didn't get it. The cowboy and Piers get into a little back-and-forth about whether the act blew it by bringing the horse on stage. Dylan Andre: The guitarist and singer wants to do with his music what his mom wasn't able to do with hers. He gives a fairly basic performance of a John Mayer song. Howie says he did "good." He says he can tell Dylan has only been singing for a year. Piers says the judges are more harsh at this stage because they're at the "business" portion of the competition, when they're looking for the $1 million act. Piers says he wouldn't pay to watch Dylan, although he's "pleasant." Sharon tries to be nice and says it was pleasant. Landon Swank Landon grew up in Alaska and had a lot of time on his hands, so he practiced magic. He has Nick sign two sides of a mirror. Landon then appeared to push his way out of the mirror, with Nick's signatures still intact. Piers is pleasantly confused and says he's impressed. Sharon wasn't sure what was going on but says it was interesting. Howie says the presentation wasn't as slick as Landon's presentation has been in the past, but he liked it. Smage Bros. Riding Show: The guys who seem to take their assistant's life into their own hands -- or, wheels. They're worried as they try to step up the danger and obstacles for this round. They pulled everything off and the crowd goes nuts. Sharon says it's exciting and "so dangerous." She says it's "just fantastic, amazing." Howie says it's a great act. Piers says it's been a pretty dry night and they were waiting for something to wake them up, and the Smage Bros. did just that. Thomas John: Juggler Thomas John wants to be the spokesperson for his generation to show that comedy juggling is cool. He vows to risk his life doing something dumb for our amusement. The instant a juggling pin even momentarily hits the floor, Piers buzzes him. His big finale, balancing on a board high atop a staircase and juggling five pins, he drops them. Howie points out that Thomas dropped his props a couple of times, but he's funny and he likes him. Piers says it was terrible and didn't like the drops. Sharon says the timing wasn't good. Steven Retchless: Steven says he wants to pave the way for guys to do pole dancing. He stepping up the danger this time. PIers buzzes him about halfway through and Sharon appears to slap him. Afterward, Sharon gives a standing ovation while Piers attempts to explain himself. Piers, amid boos, says he's tried to appreciate the act. He says there's a reason there are no male pole dancing clubs in America. Howie shoots Piers with a water gun. Seriously. Sharon says, "That was spectacular." She bows down to him. Howie calls it truly amazing and says Steven is like a cross between Lady Gaga and a firefighter. Mona Lisa: The singing duo puts its harmonies on Rascal Flatts' "Bless the Broken Road." Sharon says they did really well, "great harmonies." She says they just need that right song and they're "going to make it." Howie says he has nothing critical to say, but that they have to do things that stand out to keep up with wild motorcycle acts and male pole dancers. Piers says there are some nice harmonies, but it was "a little bit lacking in the wow factor." He says this was safe and in their comfort zone, and believes they have more potential. Silhouettes: We've only seen them once, but this 42-member group (its youngest member is 3) that makes exciting and creative visual effects using their shadows. They go with an over-the-top patriotic performance in which they use their shadows to form various monuments from sea to shining sea. Piers says it's fresh, creative and original, and that it was "just complete genius." He calls it "a world-class act." Sharon says it's just brilliant and so different from their first performance. Howie calls it "original, unique, wow." He says they're worthy of their own show.

Twelve acts stepped onto the "America's Got Talent" live stage Tuesday night, but eight dreams will be crushed by the time an hourlong results episode is over tonight. After a few words from Howie, in which he claimed that Tuesday night's episode let him feeling like he was dreaming, host Nick Cannon brings us some real results. To the results: Nick calls the Fearless Flores Family, Duo Aero and Snap Boogie to the stage. After a recap of who the judges loved and hated (they pretty much loved the Flores Family and Snap Boogie, and didn't much care for Duo Aero), Nick tells us just one of them will remain in the competition. Piers says he's surprised to see the Floreses and Snap Boogie on stage, but that if he had to choose between them he'd take Snap Boogie. America agrees. Snap Boogie is on to the next round. After a big, long hug from the Flores dad, Snap tells Nick he's "super-happy" and that the crowd gave him all the energy he needed Tuesday to get through a leg injury. Sharon says she's "absolutely overjoyed" and that Snap "really, really" deserves to be there. Nick gives Cedric the Entertainer a chance to plug his new game show, which is ... oh, hey! It's on NBC, just like "America's Got Talent"! Be our guest: Avril Lavigne takes the stage to perform her new single, "Smile." Later, we're treated to a performance from the Tony Award-winning musical, "Priscilla Queen of the Desert." Back to the results: Nick calls for Squonk Opera, Sandau Trio Russian Bar and J. Chris Newberg. The recap comes and we recall that Piers and Sharon both buzzed Squonk Opera, they thought the Sandau Trio was one of the most amazing and dangerous acts they've ever seen, and while Howie loved Mr. Newberg, Piers was not a fan in the least. Only one of the three can go through. Howie says he thinks Chris has a career regardless of what happens here, Squonk Opera may be too weird for America, and that voters will likely have gone with Sandau Trio. He's right. Piers jokes that he's "bitterly disappointed" in the result because the "singers from hell" and the world's least funny -- er, second-least funny comedian" (a shot at Howie) have gone home. He's excited to see what the Russian bar act does next. Up next are Dezmond Meeks, Echo from Animal Gardens and Anna Graceman. The judges were mixed on Dezmond, with Howie saying it was "cruise shippy"; they liked Echo, but maybe not enough for a million dollars; and they loved Anna. Sharon's put on the spot and says she's "confused and worried." She specifically points out Dezmond and Anna first. She doesn't give a prediction. The act going into the semifinals is Anna Graceman. She says she feels "so special" and thanks the voters. Howie reminds us how he told Anna her world is going to change. He tells her that more fans of the show ask him about her than any other act and that she has "arrived." The judges will decide who gets the last spot. The candidates: Those Funny Little People, the Fiddleheads and Miami All Stars. The judges agreed in their adoration of Miami All Stars; Piers hates Those Funny Little People, while the other judges love them; and all the judges generally love the Fiddleheads, but agreed that they took a wrong turn Tuesday with "Billie Jean." One of the three acts will go home based on the votes. And that act is ... Those Funny Little People. Piers stands up in appreciation and Sharon slaps him on the leg while Nick tells him, "That's not nice." That leaves Miami All Stars and The Fiddleheads, who get a chance to make their cases. The leader of the Miami All Stars tells the judges that their whole crew is trained in several other forms of dance, even though they've only shown the ballroom/salsa stuff. He vows that they'll never be bored watching Miami All Stars. The singer from The Fiddleheads calls out the producers, essentially saying the band took bad advice instead of sticking to its own style and he thinks they can make the most of another chance. After a conveniently placed commercial break to give the judges "time to think," Sharon reveals her choice first. She praises both acts, which she acknowledges are very different. She insists she was disappointed with their song choice on Tuesday, so she gives her vote to the Miami All Stars. Piers thanks America for sending home Those Funny Little People. He tells The Fiddleheads they're a good act and they've improved, but his vote goes to Miami All Stars. Howie's vote is rendered moot, and Miami All Stars are into the next round. First four semifinalists: Snap Boogie, Sandau Trio Russian Bar, Anna Graceman and Miami All Stars.

It's time to watch the first dozen quarterfinalists perform live on "America's Got Talent," and that can only mean one thing: Finally learning all the correct names of the acts! (And meeting some of the ones who haven't gotten much, if any, face time through the audition process). Tonight's competitors will be: Miami All Stars, Dezmond Meeks, Those Funny Little People, Fearless Flores Family, Squonk Opera, J. Chris Newberg, Snap Boogie, Echo of Animal Gardens, Fiddleheads, Duo Aero, Anna Graceman, and Sandou Trio Russian Bar. Miami All Stars: The drama gets going immediately when the Miami All Stars learn that one of the songs they've been using in rehearsals isn't cleared for use on the live show. They're nervous, but ready to roll. They put on a sizzling performance, synching up what appears to be at least a dozen couples. Piers calls it "fabulous," adding, "It was sexy, fun, vibrant, fun, exciting, colorful ... it's exactly how I dance." Sharon says it was "just spectacular," and notes that their precision is "just perfect." Howie calls it "mucho caliente." He's amazed that they pulled it off with less time than expected to prepare (because of the music hiccup). Dezmond Meeks: Dezmond talks about growing up as an outcast in Louisiana. He's amazed in the studio, realizing he's "actually here." He's nervous about the big moment that awaits when he hits the live stage. He's does a standing-at-the-piano, Little Richard-like rendition of the Rolling Stones' "Satistfaction." He incorporates some Michael Jackson-style dance moves with a half-dozen, gold-mini-skirt-wearing ladies behind him. He admits to Sharon that he's "shaking like a leaf on a tree" and she tells him he has amazing stage presence, confidence, soul and grace -- "however, it's a very fine line between being too cabaret and a little bit cheesy." She warns him "less is more." Howie agrees with what Sharon said, but that he "crossed the line" into "cheesy and cruise ship-y." Piers calls Howie's comments "a load of old tosh." He says the whole point of Dezmond is that he is a cabaret act and is exactly what you'd find in Vegas. "It's not cheesy, it's entertainment," Piers says. Those Funny Little People: The little gnomes show us some of their live in Chicago before making it to Hollywood. Piers vows there's nothing they can do to change his mind. Sure enough, Piers buzzes them just seconds in. Their rain-inspired medley includes "Singin' in the Rain" leading into "It's Raining Men," with a few muscular backup dancers. Howie says they still scare him. Piers doesn't understand "why they're called 'Funny Little People' because they're not funny, they're not little and they're not even people." He says they're just "very, very annoying." The crowd boos. Sharon calls Piers "the king of annoying," but she thinks "that was quite amazing -- groundbreaking, in fact." She says the fact that they annoy Piers makes her love them more. Fearless Flores Family: Raising the stakes after making it straight through to Hollywood, mom is getting added to the mix, putting three motorcycles into the sphere with coordinating the whole situation while standing in the middle. You have to see this act to believe it. A camera fixed to mom's helmet actually detracts from the viewers' experience a bit. Piers calls the act "incredible," and suggest that the next time, they put Howie in the middle with four bikes going at it. Sharon is amazed, but wonders where do they go from here and dad says they've got "all kinds of ideas." Howie says it's "so dangerous," because they could lose an entire family in this act. He says it's the only thing he's seen "where, if mother joins, it gets more dangerous." Squonk Opera: Music, art, outrageous are some of the words used by Squonk Opera to describe what it is. Sharon thinks they're "quite bizarre but interesting." They vow to put everything on the line. There's a big visual element to the act this time around and the judges don't seem very into it. Piers buzzes them part of the way through and Sharon follows a few moments later. Sharon explains that she appreciated their eccentricity, but "that song ... it really was not good" and she "didn't like that it messed with my head." But she does like them because they're all nice. Howie says he didn't buzz because watching them was kind of like a drug and he didn't know where he was. Piers says this was "what I would imagine hell would be like." He rips the pianist and the singer, adding "the whole thing was just completely bonkers." J. Chris Newberg: J. or Chris (or both) says he used to serve subpoenas and now he's trying to be a comedian. He begs for votes, saying he's sensitive and would rather be punched in the face than hear that he's not good. He drops a few one-liners that result in a buzz from Piers. He then goes into a "song" with a choir of bearded children singing the chorus, "That's probably a bad idea" to a few things that are clearly bad ideas. Howie says he would buy a ticket to see J. Chris, and he hopes America likes it. Piers calls it "completely inappropriate." He says Chris brought out a bunch of cute kids to mask the fact that he's not funny. Sharon says his song was "so, so wrong," but she liked it. Snap Boogie: The street dancer talks about going from being the sole provider for his mom (because his brother is in jail) and going from the street to one of the country's biggest stages. He has a leg injury that's preventing him from doing several moves. He has a flock of about 10 dancers all dressed in back acting as the shadows to his every move. Piers says he gets annoyed with other acts because they're all just trying to be annoying, but he thinks that often solo dancers get a bad wrap on the show but Snap Boogie's performance "could be in Vegas tomorrow." Sharon says that what he does goes over and above Vegas. Howie calls it "so slick" and "so professional," and says he's impressed at how Snap took his act from the street to a TV show so smoothly. Echo of Animal Gardens: Despite a bomb of a performance in Vegas, Echo made it to Hollywood. His girlfriend Binky made the trip to support Echo. It seems to have worked. The routine seemed to go off without a hitch. Sharon is laughing because, "Where else would you see a bird singing 'Over the Rainbow'?" Sharon congratulates Echo on a fantastic performance. Howie says Echo's act is the difference between a million-dollar act or a really good birthday party. Piers says Echo was funnier than several of the human comedians the show has seen tonight. The Fiddleheads: The bluegrass band from Georgia puts its own twist on pop songs and are struggling with how to bring the whole act, complete with some sense of choreography, to the level of live TV entertainment. The singer seems a bit nervous and doesn't move as much as the choreographer seems to have wanted him to while the band plays "Billie Jean." Howie says he thinks they made a mistake in song choice -- picking a song :that is so synonymous with performance and with dance and we don't see performance and we don't see dance, there is something missing." Piers says Howie is partly right. He didn't mind the song, but the singer failed to "hit the big notes." Sharon didn't like their outfits or song choice, but she loved them before even though she doesn't think it worked with this song. She tells them not to try and be something they're not, "go back to what you were, because I loved you." Duo Aero: The high-flying trapeze couple talks about how they love working together day and night. Sharon says they can't do what they do without the personal connection they have together. They're ready to make the most of their one shot. Piers buzzed them about halfway through, saying later that he "just got a little bit bored with it." He says they played it safe. Sharon seems to agree, saying they previously showed they were modern and dangerous and their period music turned them into an old-fashioned act. Howie agrees with Piers and Sharon, calling it "a little disappointing." He says it was "very dated." Anna Graceman: The 11-year-old singer and pianist is looking to bounce back from a little stumble on the keys in Vegas. She puts her twist on "What a Wonderful World." Sharon can't believe Anna's just 11, calling her "just incredible." She thinks the song was an odd choice for an 11-year-old, "but it worked." Howie says it was a great choice and says "it is a wonderful world because we get, in this world, to listen to you." He says he's never seen anything quite like her. Piers says the reason he loves the show because it's a place where you can see a 4-foot-4, 11-year-old girl singing Louis Armstrong. Sandou Trio Russian Bar: With the hype built up about how dangerous the act is, Piers wonders how they can possibly top the level of danger they've already shown. They show us: Under the bar will be a bed of nails. One wrong move and, well... They finish with an astounding final stunt. Howie asks if it's worth risking the flipper's life. Piers says he can barely watch when they do the routine. It's "spine tingling." He calls it "the most and dangerous and, I think, exciting thing we've seen in a long time." Sharon says it's everything she loves, both dangerous and beautiful to look at.

The standby acts get their chance to claim one of the 17 remaining spots in the Top 48. We first see a couple of magicians who show why they were standbys, stumbling over their own props. Landon Swank ups the ante with a levitation illusion that keeps the judges guessing how he pulled it off. Seth Grabel attempts to match the bar Landon set, but his assistant fumble a prop and it's obvious the illusion didn't go as planned. The kids are up next and dancer Lil T (Tanner) makes the judges smile again. Avery and the Calico Hearts are back with their Chipmunks-like sound. Piers tells Howie he's "completely deluded" if he thinks Avery and the gang are stars. Pianist and singer Anna Grayson impresses the judges even though she thinks she messed up a little on the keys. In the danger category, some fire-heavy acts and some daredevil motorcycle riders wow the judges. The dance group offers up a few impressive acts, but 32-year-old Sam B is ready to put on a show. His short shirt gave more of a show than Piers would have liked. The novelty acts bring Leonid the Magnificent, who's dancing now to Culture Club's "Karma Chameleon." Piers is over it. A juggler is pretty good, a bodybuilder is kind of confusing and overwhelming, a yo-yo artist is pretty cool. Meet at Fairfax and Third are back and ready to ... wait... phone call. Headstand guy's cell phone goes off and he takes a few moments to figure it out. The male singers are pretty ho-hum until Mauricio shows up. He's a showman who feels at home in Vegas. He's doing a medley that goes from "Strangers in the Night" to the Bee Gees' "Staying Alive." He has trouble maintaining his falsetto. Daniel Joseph Baker gets teary as he talks about how much the audition means to him. He gives a captivating performance that becomes a bit odd when he props his foot up on the end of the keys. But the judges love him anyway. The judges break some bad news to a lot of folks before giving the Russian bar group and motorcycle stunt guys passes to Hollywood. Avery and the Calico Hearts, the little rapping dudes, Anna Grayson and another young girl singer whose name wasn't given are moving on to Hollywood, as well. Standby magicians Landon Swank and Seth Grabel are both in. The juggler and yo-yo guy are both in. America is going to get the chance to decide whether Sam B is real entertainment. The big dance groups are also through to the next round. Two more male singers whose names didn't jump out made it through, as did Mauricio and Daniel Joseph Baker.

At the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas the acts who made it through the first round of auditions must now impress celebrity judges Howie Mandel, Piers Morgan and Sharon Osbourne. The top 48 are revealed and receive a chance to compete in the live shows in Los Angeles. Nick Cannon hosts this variety competition series which features a colorful array of hopeful future stars as they compete for a chance to win a $1 million prize and become the most talented act in America.

At the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas the acts who made it through the first round of auditions must now impress celebrity judges Howie Mandel, Piers Morgan and Sharon Osbourne in order to get into the Top 48 and a chance to compete in the live shows in Los Angeles. Nick Cannon hosts this variety competition series which features a colorful array of hopeful future stars as they compete for a chance to win a $1 million prize and become the most talented act in America.

The "America's Got Talent" auditions are in, well, we don't really know because no one mentioned it. Things get started quickly with a couple of nearly lifelong friends who say they've been preparing for five years to show off their talent. Eric and Christlo, a couple of friends who've known each other since middle school, get things started with a truly terrible singing and dancing rendition of TLC's "Waterfalls." Sharon thinks they're adorable, but says this after she buzzed them. They're gone, and on come some more crazies, including a guy who dances while suspended form an overhead wire by his hair, a quartet of dancing ladies with absurdly large butt enhancements, and a truly terrible magician. A dance group called Fatally Unique that has come together as a family and found rehearsal space whenever and wherever they can. The crowd loves the groups high-intensity presentation. Sharon calls them "strong dancers" and Howie says they're different. Piers hates their costumes, but loves the dancing. With three yeses, they're off the Vegas. They start a string of quality acts, including a yo-yo specialist, a bodybuilder who flexes to music, and a shy and semi-awkward singer-guitarist who wins over the crowd and judges. Burlesque dancer Tomahawk Tassels does a tease that results in her strategically covering her otherwise topless self with a canoe paddle. It's a lot of fun for about a minute until Piers and Sharon send her packing. A 42-year-old technical writer turned housewife named Cindy Chang is a singer full of nervous laughter and energy. She says she always wanted to be a singer but her parents said no. And, just like that, Cindy becomes the first "who would've believed that?" opera singer of the season. She's so full of nerves that she breaks down crying and shaking as soon as she's done singing. The crowd chants "Vegas, Vegas" as she wipes away her tears. Piers says her parents would be thinking, "Big mistake," if they saw her sing. She tells Howie she was emotional because she couldn't believe she was there. She took her first voice lesson in her mid-to-late 20s and her voice teacher told her it was too late for her. She's all smiles (and some tears) when the judges tell her she's going to Vegas. Mike Stone & the Kritikal Band have the crowd in a groove, but Piers buzzes them. Afterward, he says they should thank him because as soon as he hit the buzzer, they stepped it up. With three yes votes, they're on to Vegas. Fantastic Fig, a 76-year-old magician who keeps his cat, Newton, on his shoulder. The judges are impressed at his ability to "guess" which cards they randomly choose from the deck. Afterward, Fig says it's time to dance, so he and his quartet of female backup dancers start dancing. Howie buzzes him. Howie says no to the dancing, but yes to the magic. Piers is on board, as well, and Fig and his ladies are going to Vegas. GTR, which stands for "Girls That Rock," are a duo of full-figured ladies who, well, rock. After a lot of booming and a lot of shaking, they get three buzzes. The Fearless Flores Family is a father and his 13-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son who are self-proclaimed daredevils. The kids ride motorcycles in a large metal globe while their father stands in the middle. Piers calls it one of the most exciting things he's ever seen on the show. Sharon calls it "absolutely perfection."

It's another night of auditions as we head back to New York on "America's Got Talent." Up first are a husband-and-wife doctor team, Rak and Tak. There's got to be something in the hippocratic oath again their singing. They're gone. Howie's a little nervous as a motorcycle act prepares to do its thing. There are temporary barriers set up to protect the crowd, but there's nothing in front of the judges. Howie goes to sit behind one of the barriers as the Smage Bros. Riding Shows do their thing. The crowd loves them, the judges love them, and they're heading to Vegas. A montage of successful act follows, including the Sally Gould Dancers, a guy singing "Hallelujah," and a limbo pro. For no apparent reason, a really old, really tan and really muscular guy goes on stage and flexes for a bit. His name is Ed Cole and he's 75, and even though the crowd goes nuts for him, he won't be going to Vegas. Finally, the quick teases pay off with a visit from Leonid the Magnificent, who is wearing a balloon suit that becomes a dress and a series of quick changes. Maybe it's nostalgia, but the crowd seems to love Leonid. Piers still hates him, having buzzed him almost immediately. Sharon and Howie's votes are enough to put him through. We move from the lightness of Leonid to the sentimental story of Rachel Zamstein. She talks about having taken her parents' divorce badly, getting hooked on alcohol and drugs. And when Coldplay's "Fix You" starts playing in the background, you know that not only is this a story of redemption, it's one that will end happily. She's a singer-songwriter who needs a bit more confidence, they say, but she'll get a chance to prove herself in Vegas. Sandy Kane the Naked Cowgirl, 57, performs a song specifically for and about Nick, called, "I Love Nick." She's buzzed thrice, and it's a no. She starts a string of odd acts, that include a zombie dancing group and guy acting like a baby. The last of the weird acts is Narcissister, a dancer/performance artist whose act includes masks on the front and back of her head and she dances while facing backward and forward to embody different "faces" and personalities. One more character is revealed as she does a handstand, allowing her dress to fall down over her face and revealing yet another mask between her legs to appear as a third "person." Try as we might to explain it, it's something you'd have to see at least once. We end the night with a 32-year-old office clerk who is a freestyle dancer who admits he isn't trained. He's awkward in a likable way and says his dream, plain and simple, "is to be a star." The crowd takes to him immediately, even cheering uncontrollably as he explains his name. Sharon says Sam is "absolutely barking mad," but fantastic. Piers calls him "quite brilliantly terrible" and sends him to Vegas.

The "America's Got Talent" auditions head to New York and start with a quartet of performers calling themselves Triple Threat. They do Broadway-style routines complete with singing, dancing and acting. Yikes. It starts a little shaky and only gets worse. Sharon buzzes first, then Howie. After a while, Piers finally drops the dreaded third X on them and suggests that they change their costumes, the singing, the dancing, the hand waving. Things just get worse as a guy tries to eat a pumpkin pie in 90 seconds, an orchestra with guys who use typewriters as instruments, and a guy in a pirate suit with a parrot that won't cooperate. A guy names Snap Boogie says he loves dancing more than anything in the world. The crowd goes nuts for this guy and the judges soon follow. Howie says he's "fantastic." Piers says Snap is exciting, a little dangerous and a bit wild. He likes it. Sharon says it's tough being a dancer on your own, but she thinks he was fantastic. Michael Turco wows the crowd and the judges with his ability to make women appear in cages, boxes and from behind capes. Riley Schillaci is a sword swallower, saying she's one of fewer than 20 women who do this. She swallows a sword and a wooden stick that she hammers down her throat. She then asks Nick, who's barely holding it together as it is, to pull a sword out of her throat while she hula hoops. She's pretty dry, and Howie mocks her for the "joy" she conveys while working her craft. With no votes all around, she's gone. Steven Retchless surprises everyone when he comes out in only silver shorts and some silver body paint and says he's going to pole dance. Sharon and the crowd love it. Howie's slightly uncomfortable but says he appreciates it. Piers holds onto his manly position of not wanting to see more of Steve. Sharon votes yes and Howie eventually follows suit. Steve's in, and Nick goes on stage to try his hand (and other parts) at pole dancing. A guy named ELEW essentially assaults a piano for a while as we vaguely make out the tune of "Sweet Home Alabama." Sharon likes it, Howie is wild about some tricky things he did. They all call him a genius and send him on to Vegas. Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr., a car washer from West Virginia, says he never auditioned for anything but wants to display what he thinks is his talent. He says he doesn't want to see another rubber tire again. The dreadlocked, "aww-shucks" car washer turns things upside down when he busts out a Frank Sinatra-esque voice for "I've Got You Under My Skin." Piers says he was expecting a total trainwreck. Howie tells Landau his life is "never going to be the same." Landau cries as the crowd stands and cheers, "Vegas! Vegas! Vegas!" With three yes votes, we'll be seeing Landau in Vegas.

The judges expect some bizarre auditions in New York, but how can you prepare for "snap boogie", a female sword swallower, a silvery male pole dancer, a pianist superhero and the biggest surprise they've ever had?

Auditions shot on-location in theaters across the nation continue in Atlanta.

At first, it's not going well in Seattle. Then, talents emerge and Piers makes history by being the only judge who says "Yes" - twice in the same auditions. And one contestant has even written a special song for him.

With Piers Morgan unexpectedly caught in a blizzard, Sharon and Howie have all the power on the crazy first day. When Pierce arrives, enter The Kinetic King, Silhouettes, and... Those Funny Little People.

Auditioning, among others: Purrfect Angelz, Sandou Trio Russian Bar, Tanner "Lil' T" Edwards, Professor Splash, Tron Man, and... is that Justin Bieber???

Nick Cannon stands atop the Space Needle and Howie Mandel turns the wrong way down one-way streets as the anticipation builds for the Seattle auditions on "America's Got Talent." Up first, Melissa Villasenor wants to be a comedian and impressionist. She gets some laughs with a Barbara Walters interview with Natalie Portman, but she wins them over with her Miley Cyrus, Kathy Griffin and Christina Aguilera. Sharon Osbourne tells her she won't be working in retail much longer. Piers Morgan calls it a "sensational audition." Howie says she's adorable to watch and "a star." Yeses all around send Melissa to Vegas. The A+C Twins are ready for stardom, aiming to sell millions of albums. They say they can be "as big as the Jackson Five." With an awkward side-to-side dance, their rendition of "My Girl" falls flat. Piers buzzes them quickly, but Sharon and Howie let them continue, for some reason. "Guys, you can't sing," Sharon tells them. Howie takes them up on a challenge, when they claim they can sing way better than him, but turns out to be just as bad. This kicks off a string of terrible auditions, including a rap-meets-magic routine that Piers called "one of the most stupid things I've ever seen in my life." Anita McCoy, a 69-year-old dance teacher wins love from the crowd, but not from Piers, who buzzed her. Howie votes yes, but Sharon gives her a no even though she loves Anita's spirit. A group of Kenyan acrobats called Zuma Zuma pulls of some remarkable tricks in a high-energy routine. Piers says he's never seen a tumbling act without mats. Howie and Sharon love them, too, and they're heading to Vegas. A young band called POPLYFE made the trip from Oakland to audition. The crowd loves them and so do Howie and Sharon, but Piers doesn't think they're quite ready. Piers tries to create dysfunction by asking the singer if she'd move on without her band, and she says no. Left up to Sharon, she says yes. A montage of quality acts, follows, including an aerial acrobatics couple, an 8-year-old singer, and a dance crew that Piers calls "one of the freshest routines I've seen in a long time." Mauricio Herrera, a superstar in Costa Rica, where he grew up, doesn't go over quite as well here. The crowd boos incessantly while he continues to sing Ricky Martin's "Livin' La Vida Loca." Howie says yes just because he wants to see another of Mauricio's shiny shirts in Vegas. Piers buzzed Mauricio and never wants to see him again, but Howie begs Sharon to vote yes, and succeeds. Mauricio is in. Cartlon Baltimore, 56, is a one-man band and one of his specialities is making horns out of paper cups. He insists he's "one of a kind." The first thing he does is pull out his front teeth. Piers buzzes Carlton quickly and reaches over and hits Sharon's buzzer, much to her chagrin. Piers gets up and walks away. Howie tells Carlton he looks like David Letterman. Sharon gives Carlton a no. Howie tries to cast a yes vote on Piers' behalf, but Nick explains Piers has to make the vote himself. Piers is pulled back on stage while Nick and Carlton do a duet on "When the Saints Go Marching In." Piers comes back and says it's clear there's been a movement forming while he's been away. He says he's man enough to admit when he's wrong. Then adds, "But this won't be one of those times. It's a no." Howie and Piers continue their "feud" backstage, where Piers tells Howie that their ideas of what's funny don't match, and Piers closes his dressing-room door in Howie's face.

The series returns for the sixth season with host Nick Cannon and returning judges Sharon Osbourne, Piers Morgan and Howie Mandel. The two-hour premiere kicks off with auditions. The series is a true celebration of the American spirit featuring a colorful array of hopeful stars, including singers, dancers, comedians, contortionists, impressionists, jugglers, magicians and ventriloquists, all vying for their chance to strut and perform on stage hoping to win America's hearts -- and the $1 million prize.