SIMON COWELL

A Japanese American stand-up comedian received four “yeses” from “America’s Got Talent” judges and a standing ovation from Simon Cowell after showing a “funny and naughty” act. Aiko Tanaka auditioned for “America’s Got Talent” Season 17 on Tuesday. Tanaka, a Japanese-born comedian, tickled the funny bones of judges Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel and Cowell with her jokes about her immigration experience in America.

Il Divo singer Carlos Marín has died at the age of 53.

The classical group's Carlos Marin died at the age of 53 after going into hospital during a UK tour.

Nick Cannon almost quit his lucrative TV host and producer career after facing heavy scrutiny for his anti-Semitic comments last year.

Florida has had more coronavirus cases than all 30 states with the lowest case rates combined, according to the White House pandemic response team. During a press briefing Thursday, team members also said that Florida and Texas alone have accounted for nearly 40 percent of new hospitalizations across the country.

The founder of the Sydney-based global Hillsong Church, Brian Houston, has been charged with concealing child sex offenses, police said Thursday. Detectives served Houston’s lawyers on Thursday with a notice for him to appear in a Sydney court on Oct. 5 for allegedly concealing a serious indictable offense, police said. “Police will allege in court the man (Houston) knew information relating to the sexual abuse of a young male in the 1970s and failed to bring that information to the attention of police,” police said.

There was plenty of competition across the television dial last week — the NBA conference finals, Olympic trials and even “Celebrity Family Feud.”.

The Latin American boy band CNCO is downsizing.

FILE - Nikki McKibbin celebrates during the final episode of Fox's television competition "American Idol," in Los Angeles, in this Sept. 4, 2002, file photo. McKibbin, a singer from Texas best known for her third place finish in the first season of "American Idol," died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020. She was 42. (AP Photo/Lucy Nicholson, File)

FILE - Nikki McKibbin celebrates during the final episode of Fox's television competition "American Idol," in Los Angeles, in this Sept. 4, 2002, file photo. McKibbin, a singer from Texas best known for her third place finish in the first season of "American Idol," died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Lucy Nicholson, File)ARLINGTON, Texas – Nikki McKibbin, a singer from Texas best known for her third place finish in the first season of American Idol, has died. ``You’ve got a career ahead of you.″In a statement, American Idol sent its condolences to McKibbin's family and friends. “She was part of our American Idol family and will be truly missed.”

LOS ANGELES – Gabrielle Union and NBC said Tuesday that they have settled their differences in their dispute over her firing as a judge on “America's Got Talent,” which she said was retaliation for her complaints that the show tolerated racism on the set. “We’ve reached an amicable resolution," Union and the network said in a joint statement. "NBC Entertainment appreciates the important concerns raised by Gabrielle Union and remains committed to ensuring an inclusive and supportive working environment where people of all backgrounds are treated with respect.”Both sides declined further comment, and would not give further details. Variety reported soon after that Union, who is Black, believed she was fired because she had asked NBC and the show’s producers to respond to an environment that tolerated racist jokes and remarks from judges and producers. NBC said the investigation "found an overarching culture of diversity on the show.”___Follow AP Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton on Twitter: https://twitter.com/andyjamesdalton.

MALIBU, Calif. (AP) Simon Cowell broke his back Saturday while testing his new electric bicycle at his home in California. Cowell was expected to have surgery Saturday evening, according to a spokesperson for the entertainment mogul. Cowell fell off the bike while in the courtyard with his family at his house in Malibu. Cowell created Americas Got Talent and serves as a judge on the show. He has also been the judge on Britains Got Talent, The X Factor and American Idol.

MALIBU, Calif. Simon Cowell broke his back Saturday while testing his new electric bicycle at his home in California. Cowell was expected to have surgery Saturday evening, according to a spokesperson for the entertainment mogul. Cowell fell off the bike while in the courtyard with his family at his house in Malibu. Cowell created America's Got Talent and serves as a judge on the show. He has also been the judge on Britains Got Talent, The X Factor and American Idol.

When a stand-up comic auditions for America's Got Talent, the energy of the audience can play a big role in the energy they bring to the stage. For comedian Michael Yo, however, he faced the unique challenge of having no audience at all, save for the show's judges. "If you're still confused on if you're really old or not, here's how you know you're getting old: When you start saying things your parents used to say to you," Yo jokes in the sneak peek. "By day 11, we just went OK, it really, really isn't safe now." RELATED CONTENT:'AGT': Eric Stonestreet Shines as Guest Judge Alongside Sofia Vergara'AGT': Bronx Dance Crew Earns Simon Cowell's Golden Buzzer'AGT': Heidi Klum Brings Singer to Tears With Golden Buzzer Honor'AGT' Sneak Peek: Watch Terry Crews Compete In a Shirt Ripping ContestExclusiveExclusiveImageBylineZach SeemayerThu, 06/25/2020 - 08:51

For the WAFFLE Crew dancers, America's Got Talent is an opportunity like no other. Taking the stage, the group introduced themselves, explaining that WAFFLE Crew stands for We Are Family For Life Entertainment. Without further ado, the group kicked off their audition, displaying their finely honed crew performance, which blends break dancing and hip-hop with their own influences and flourishes. With the Golden Buzzer, the WAFFLE Crew bypass the Judge Cuts round and move on to the live rounds later in the season. RELATED CONTENT:'AGT': Heidi Klum Brings Singer to Tears With Golden Buzzer Honor'America's Got Talent': Inspirational Homeless Choir Earns Golden Buzzer From Tearful Terry Crews'America's Got Talent': Archie Williams, a Wrongly Incarcerated Singer, Wows Judges With Tearful Performance

Gabrielle Union is speaking out amid her drama with America's Got Talent. The complaint has since been closed, as Union requested an immediate right to sue, which she was granted. "Trying to figure out how you work around the bad apples, as opposed to addressing and making those bad apples accountable and there being real consequences." Amid the drama with AGT, Union said she wants companies to "treat people fairly" and "have mechanisms in place for when things happen, there are consequences." RELATED CONTENT:Dwyane Wade Defends Gabrielle Union After Discrimination ComplaintGabrielle Union's Discrimination Complaint Against 'AGT': What We KnowGabrielle Union Files Discrimination Complaint Over 'AGT' Exit

The powerful vocalist and single mom took to the America's Got Talent stage on Tuesday's new episode and earned the Golden Buzzer after performing not one but two show-stopping numbers. Before Rae took the stage, the judges noticed her toddler, Jeremiah, stepping out from the wings of the stage between auditions, and were charmed by the cute kid. As Rae took the stage, joined by Jeremiah, the Nashville native was asked why she chose to audition for AGT, and she explained, "I need this to change my life. the model added, gesturing toward the Golden Buzzer in front of her, before slamming her hand down and showing Rae in a flurry of shimmering confetti. Getting the Golden Buzzer means Rae immediately moves past the Judge Cuts round and into the next stage of competition.

When it comes to amazing feats of acrobatics, strength, stamina or physical prowess, America's Got Talent has long been the place to go to prove yourself. But for contestant David Rush and his talent of ripping shirts off his body, he chose to up the ante by challenging host (and body builder) Terry Crews. In this sneak peek from Tuesday's new America's Got Talent auditions, Rush and Crews stand side-by-side on stage at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, each waddling uncomfortably while wearing over two-dozen white T-shirts, layered on top of one another. judge Heidi Klum yells before Rush counts down from three and the buzzer rings, sending both men into a shirt-ripping frenzy. The show is reportedly retooling the season to keep production going in a way the show never has before -- possibly remotely.

Gabrielle Union's saga with NBC, Simon Cowell, FremantleMedia and Syco Entertainment over her departure at America's Got Talent isn't over. In the complaint filed by attorney Bryan Freedman, Union also claims NBC Entertainment Chairman Paul Telegdy tried to "silence and intimidate" her, according to multiple reports. In a statement to ET on Thursday, NBC said, "The allegation that anyone involved in this process threatened Ms. Union is categorically untrue. Union's complaint comes a week after she opened up about her experience at America's Got Talent. RELATED CONTENT:NBC Boss Says 'America's Got Talent' May 'Put New Practices in Place' Amid Gabrielle Union InvestigationSAG-AFTRA Expanding Fremantle Media Investigation After Gabrielle Union and Orlando Jones' ExitsGabrielle Union Details 'Toxic Work Environment' at 'America's Got Talent'

Union's AGT hairstylist, Larry Sims, also posted an Instagram video of the actress' many looks on the show, writing, "Too Black? "I love Gabrielle Union. According to the source, Union is open to working with NBC when it comes to making changes in its workplace culture. ET has reached out to Union, Cowell, Fremantle and Syco for comment on this complaint. RELATED CONTENT:Gabrielle Union's 'America's Got Talent' Exit Could Be a 'Wake-Up Call' for Simon Cowell, Source SaysEva Longoria, Ellen Pompeo and More Stars Rally Around Gabrielle Union After 'AGT' ExitSharon Osbourne Weighs In on Gabrielle Union's 'AGT' Exit and Her 'Own Problems' With NBC

The 10-year-old singer came out to audition for the America's Got Talent judges during Tuesday's new episode, and her earnestness earned her the Golden Buzzer from the show's newest judge. But she was quick to share some love with newcomer judge Sofia Vergara. "Let me just say, I love you and I watch you on Modern Family," Battaglia said, smiling. Vergara couldn't contain her appreciation for the singer, saying, "You're 10 years old, it's impossible to sing like that at 10 years old." she added, as she stood and slammed down the Golden Buzzer, showering Battaglia in shimmering confetti.

While theres no shortage of addictive, talent-based reality series, like Making the Cut, RuPauls Drag Race or Top Chef, none of them is as original as Legendary. And the contestants are more full of passion and heart than any show Ive ever seen before, Jamil says. When it comes to recreating the balls for the series, Jamil says they kept the feeling as real and true to the experience as possible. You forget about all the people whose dreams you take away week after week after week for just one slip, for one mistake, for one bad day or one bad week. But in order to achieve that status and take home that cash prize, they have to slay the competition.

Gabrielle Union is speaking out for the first time about her experience working on America's Got Talent that led to her exit after one season. The 47-year-old actress was a judge on season 14 of the NBC talent show before her departure in November. A Variety report later claimed that Union had expressed concern about the show's "toxic culture" to NBC's Human Resources department. In a new Variety interview published on Wednesday, Union talks directly about her experience at AGT. For more on Union's AGT departure, watch the video below:RELATED CONTENT:SAG-AFTRA Expanding Fremantle Media Investigation After Gabrielle Union and Orlando Jones' ExitsGabrielle Union Shares Inspirational Message to Women Following 'America's Got Talent' ExitJulianne Hough Says Gabrielle Union's 'AGT' Meeting Was an 'Amazing Step'

LOS ANGELES An investigation of Gabrielle Unions complaints of racism on the set of Americas Got Talent concluded that her allegations were unfounded, according to NBC and the shows producers. The trade publication Variety reported that Union, who is black, believed she was fired because she had asked NBC and the shows producers to respond to an environment that tolerated racist jokes and remarks. That included what Union said were multiple notes from producers saying she was wearing her hair too black for the Americas Got Talent audience. NBC sought the investigation into Union's accusations. A representative for Union didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Even amid the coronavirus pandemic, Simon Cowell doesn't regret choosing to not have a cell phone. ET's Kevin Frazier spoke with the America's Got Talent judge ahead of the show's premiere on Tuesday night on NBC, and he talked about how he's been doing in quarantine. "I think it's really, really important during this process to keep your mind active, stay positive," he says. "I mean, I don't think we're gonna be at the Dolby Theatre with 3,000 people," he says about no longer having a live audience. I [was like], 'Wait, I have to think about this, I don't know if I can, you know, be a good judge or whatever.'

Kelly Clarkson orchestrated an epic reunion of the original American Idol judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson on her new self-titled talk show on Wednesday, and it has us feeling all kinds of nostalgia. The three judges looked better than ever on the show, praising Clarkson for her contribution to making the competition series such a success. I actually, genuinely do not believe that we would have been sitting here today if you hadnt entered the show, Cowell expressed. I didnt know it was a TV show until I walked into the audition and was in front of yall. For more from Clarkson, watch the clip below:RELATED CONTENT:Carrie Underwood on the One Condition She Has for an 'American Idol' Reunion (Exclusive)ABC 'Hopeful' Ryan Seacrest Will Return to 'American Idol'Kelly Clarkson Announces Normani Will Be Her New Advisor on 'The Voice' In the Most Hilarious Way

The second night of the America's Got Talent semifinals aired Tuesday, and it was jam packed with some of the most amazing performances of the season thus far. However, the show saved the best for last when they had Voices of Service close out the night. For their semifinals performance, Voices of Service delivered a deeply emotional cover of OneRepublic's "Choke," and it proved to be a powerful, touching showcase for the range of their vocal talents and the depth of their emotional resonance. For more on last week's semifinals results, and a run-down of the first five hopefuls who made it to the finals, check out the video below. RELATED CONTENT:'America's Got Talent' Results Show: See Who's Headed to the Finals!

Only five acts in total were able to forward to the finals, and it was an exclusive group that was revealed over a surprising, tense night of eliminations and results. Ultimately, Lee was voted forward and the heartwarming star could hardly contain his excitement as he stood onstage with his loving mom and brother. While it was a tough choice for all four judges, Hough and Union voted for the Youth Choir, while Mandel wanted to make Finley's dream come true. The second round of the America's Got Talent semifinals kick off Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. RELATED CONTENT:'America's Got Talent': Shirtless Acrobats, a Young Violinist and Kodi Lee Shine Brightest in 1st Semfinals'America's Got Talent' Results Show Gets Tense With Some Surprising Eliminations'America's Got Talent': See Who Dominated Week 3 of Quarterfinals

Simon Cowell hit the America's Got Talent red carpet on Tuesday, following the second night of the season 14 quarterfinals, and he opened up about his fit physique. The outspoken judge stopped to talk with ET's Denny Directo, who asked Cowell if his recent 20-pound weight loss was inspired by the show's new, famously buff host, Terry Crews. "Well, I'll need a couple of years at least, but I'll do my best," Cowell added with a smile. "First of all, you gotta give props to how great Simon Cowell looks right now. RELATED CONTENT:'America's Got Talent': Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel's Golden Buzzer Winners Face Off in New Results Show'America's Got Talent': A Contestant Walks Off Stage After Simon Cowell Says He's 'Getting on My Nerves''America's Got Talent': Simon Cowell Celebrates 11-Year-Old Violinist and Cancer Survivor With Golden Buzzer

Only seven acts in total were able to forward, and that save rounded out a list that was revealed over a surprising, tense night of eliminations and results. The first show-down of the evening came when Crews called forward Cowell's Golden Buzzer act, 11-year-old violinist Tyler Butler-Figeuroa, and Howie Mandel's Golden Buzzer act, charismatic singer Joseph Allen. Light Balance Kids were the first ones announced, but Crews revealed that they weren't the only ones. The next round of the America's Got Talent quarterfinals kicks off Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. RELATED CONTENT:'America's Got Talent': See Who Shined in Quarterfinals Week 2'America's Got Talent': Golden Buzzer Winner Among Those Sent Home in Surprising Results Show'America's Got Talent': Inspiring Musician Kodi Lee Brings Judges to Tears In Quarterfinals Performance

Simon Cowell attends the "America's Got Talent" Season 14 Live Show at Dolby Theatre on Aug. 13, 2019, in Hollywood, California. (CNN) - People have noticed that Simon Cowell is looking a bit different these days. "My memory's better, I feel better, so I didn't find it difficult. "Simon Cowell new face looks like a doll that you leave out in the sun to long and it starts melting," one person tweeted. What the 59-year-old has said is that he not only feels better, but he thinks he looks better.

"But there are only seven acts that can go forward, and I just wish there were some guarantee to get you guys through to the live show. Another 18 hopefuls will give it their best shot next week during the third night of the Judge Cuts round, with guest judge Jay Leno. For more on the exciting season thus far, including last week's inspiring Golden Buzzer winner, check out the video below. RELATED CONTENT:'America's Got Talent': Judge Cuts Week 3 Ends In Shocking, Tearful Eliminations -- See Who's Moving On! 'America's Got Talent': A Stand-Up Comic, a Magician & More -- See Which Acts Made It Through 2nd Judge Cuts'America's Got Talent': Find Out Which Seven Acts Made It Through First Judge Cuts!

America's Got Talent entered the first night of this season's Judge Cuts round on Tuesday, and special guest Brad Paisley joined the judges to weigh in on the first round of cuts. Bringing his years of experience and talent to the table, Paisley proved to be a really wonderful addition to the panel. However, it wasn't too surprising when he gave the Golden Buzzer -- a power given to the guest judge each week of the Judge Cuts round -- to a musician. The second night of this season's Judge Cuts round kicks off next Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. RELATED CONTENT:'America's Got Talent': Find Out Which Seven Acts Made It Through First Judge Cuts Bloodbath!

While the judges on America's Got Talent are no strangers to magic and illusion, a good display of mentalism is always pretty mind-blowing. In this exclusive sneak peek of Tuesday's America's Got Talent, which showcases the final night of auditions for season 14, the judges get a visit from The Sentimentalists, a pair of skilled mentalists with a decidedly retro '40s flair. Closing her eyes on stage, Steffi visualizes exactly what is on the piece of paper, which only Gabrielle can see. Union can't keep from looking shocked as the paper is held up revealing a small penciled sketch of a bushy tree. Fans who want to see the entirety of The Sentimentalists' astounding audition will have to tune into AGT on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.

Tensions were high on Tuesday's America's Got Talent, as Simon Cowell got heated with a contestant during his audition -- leading to an eventual walk-off. The stand-off between the two got slightly heated when Cowell told Landers, "Your problem is, you don't take risks," and asked him to come back later with another song to perform. "You are getting on my nerves right now, because I actually like your voice," Cowell told the singer. "He was really getting on my nerves," Cowell told his fellow judges as the singer exited. He eventually returned, and the judges -- including Cowell -- assured the singer that they were rooting for him, despite the rocky start.