Simon Cowell, the famously hard-to-please judge and creator of America’s Got Talent, has made some surprising choices with his Golden Buzzer over the years. Though he’s known for favoring singers, his picks have occasionally ventured into other realms of talent. As AGT heads into its 18th season, let’s take a look back at every moment Simon Cowell has pressed the Golden Buzzer and the remarkable acts that earned it.
Season 11: Calysta Bevier
Calysta Bevier, a 16-year-old ovarian cancer survivor, made a memorable debut with Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song.” Simon was moved by her performance and her strength, awarding her the Golden Buzzer. She returned for AGT: All-Stars in 2023, showcasing her original song “Head Held High.”
Season 12: Mandy Harvey
Mandy Harvey, a deaf singer with a connective tissue disorder, impressed Simon with her original song “Try.” Despite losing her hearing by age 18, Harvey’s performance captivated the judge and the audience, although she placed fourth in the competition.
Season 13: Michael Ketterer
Pediatric mental health nurse Michael Ketterer touched Cowell’s heart, particularly with his emotional performance of James Bay’s “Us.” A father of six, Ketterer’s story and talent brought Cowell to tears, earning him the Golden Buzzer. He finished in fifth place.
AGT: The Champions: Kechi
In AGT: The Champions, Simon awarded his Golden Buzzer to Kechi, a survivor of the Sosoliso Airlines crash. Her rendition of “You Are The Reason” was a powerful moment, demonstrating her resilience and talent.
Season 14: Tyler Butler-Figueroa
11-year-old violinist Tyler Butler-Figueroa won Cowell over with his performance of Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger.” Overcoming bullying and leukemia, he made it to the finals with his inspiring story and musical talent.
Season 15: WAFFLE Dance Crew
The street dance troupe WAFFLE Dance Crew from the Bronx impressed Simon with their energy and determination. Despite facing personal tragedies, their performance earned them the Golden Buzzer and a spot in the Semi-Finals.
Season 16: Jane “Nightbirde” Marczewski
Jane “Nightbirde” Marczewski’s performance of “It’s OK” was both stunning and heart-wrenching. With only a 2% chance of survival, her courage and voice left a lasting impact, earning her the Golden Buzzer. Her battle with cancer made her journey even more poignant.
Season 17: Sara James
Polish singer Sara James wowed Simon with her rendition of Billie Eilish’s “Lovely.” At just 13 years old, she became a finalist, placing sixth, and continued to achieve success, including voicing Ariel in the Polish version of The Little Mermaid.
America’s Got Talent: All Stars: Mike E. Winfield
In a historic moment, Simon pressed the Golden Buzzer for comedian Mike E. Winfield during AGT: All-Stars. Winfield’s comedic prowess and emotional story made him the second-ever comedian to receive this honor.
Season 18: Putri Ariani
Blind Indonesian singer Putri Ariani captivated Simon with her original song and a performance of Elton John’s “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.” Her extraordinary talent and emotional delivery earned her the Golden Buzzer and a standing ovation.
As America’s Got Talent continues, Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer moments remain a highlight, showcasing the diversity and talent of the contestants who inspire audiences and judges alike.
