'AGT' Season 18: Howie Mandel labeled 'douchebag' over comment on Japanese dance group Avantgardey's interpreter
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA: When Simon Cowell attempted to crack a joke after Avantgardey's performance, some words were lost in translation. However, 'America's Got Talent' viewers were irritated when Howie Mandel criticized the Japanese Dance Group's interpreter.
Simon complimented Avantgardey on their performance and joked that everyone in the group could sing. Because the dancers do not speak English, the joke was welcomed with awkward silence. Howie fueled the flames by stating, "I love that the interpreter doesn't speak English or Japanese."
Fans took to Reddit, to call out Howie for blaming the interpreter. One user wrote, "Howie is REALLY rubbing me the wrong way tonight. The comment about Jews and the comment about the interpreter not knowing English. That made me upset."
Another person replied, "He’s Jewish. She Jew thing surprised me but didn’t bother me. The interpreter thing was a bit of a bummer because that poor lady was just out there doing her best."
However, one person simply replied with the statement, "Well he is a douchebag."
On X, people argued, "If y'all were subtitling anyway why not just subtitle what he was saying over using an interpreter? Genuine question."
Another user added, "That's what I meant. They were subtitling the introduction video anyway so idk why they needed the interpreter talking."
One user explained to the judge, "Also, Howie, a translator is a person who knows translate what someone say in one language to another language."
That's what I meant. They were subtitling the introduction video anyway so idk why they needed the interpreter talking. #AGT
— Allie Bish (@AllieIsBatman18) September 20, 2023
If y'all were subtitling anyway why not just subtitle what he was saying over using an interpreter? Genuine question. #AGT
— Allie Bish (@AllieIsBatman18) September 20, 2023
Also, Howie, a translator is a person who knows translate what someone say in one language to another language. #AGT
— Lindsie Rodgers (Lindsie Starr) (@MsLindsieStarr) September 20, 2023
Who is Avantgardey on 'AGT'?
Avantgardey is a 20-member all-female Japanese dance troupe led by Akane, a well-known producer, and choreographer.
The group earned international fame after playing with renowned DJ Steve Aoki during one of his gigs in January 2023. They are noted for their synchronized dancing skills and humorous expressions.
Is Simon Cowell retiring from 'AGT'?
In response to speculation that he may leave 'AGT' after 18 seasons, Simon said he had no plans to slow down.
How much does Howie Mandel make on 'AGT'?
Howie's 'AGT' salary is $70,000 for each episode, or $1.5 million in the 2022 season, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Howie has been a judge on the talent show for 13 years. Thus, during the past ten years, he may have earned more than $15 million.
When will 'AGT' Season 18 finale air?
Catch the 'AGT' finals on September 26 and 27, where the top 11 performers will compete for a grand prize of $1 million and a sought-after Las Vegas performance.
'America's Got Talent' Season 18 airs every Tuesday and Wednesday at 8 pm ET on NBC.