HOME / ENTERTAINMENT / REALITY TV

'AGT' Season 19: Viewers fume as NBC cuts out intro for Palestine-Israeli group The Jerusalem Youth Chorus

'AGT' Season 19 judge Howie Mandel described The Jerusalem Youth Chorus's performance as 'a world anthem'

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA: After the commercial break, viewers of 'America's Got Talent' Season 19 were surprised to see The Jerusalem Youth Chorus perform, but many were furious that the group's introduction was skipped.

On X, one fan asked, "WHO ARE THEY..:.???? do we even know or why they wanna win??" Another fan added, "SHOULDVE NOT CUT THEIR INTRO….."

One fan noted, "So we immediately jumped into an act, aight." Another fan asked asked, "Why was this montaged on TV?" One fan said, "Montaged choir."

The Jerusalem Youth Chorus performed 'American Idol' alum's song in 'AGT' Season 19 audition

The choir performed American Idol's Phillip Phillips 'Home' while participants discussed auditioning for 'AGT'. The Jerusalem Youth Chorus, featuring Palestinian and Jewish performers, delivered a powerful performance. Their vocals are lovely and refreshingly sincere, avoiding the usual syrupy choir sound. They aim to build bridges between people who are "different than them."

'AGT' Season 19 judges call The Jerusalem Youth Chorus' audition as 'World Anthem'

According to Howie Mandel, their performance is "a world anthem." Sofía Vergara finds them "heartwarming" and "inspiring." Simon Cowell was enthralled by their audition and appreciated their theme of friendship. The group earns four yeses and advances to the next round!

Who are The Jerusalem Youth Chorus in 'AGT' Season 19?

The Jerusalem Youth Chorus is an Israeli-Palestinian children's choir with a decade-long history. They recently participated in the Faith Over Division Tour this summer and released their new song "A Different Way," reflecting current developments in Israel-Palestine.

Stream 'America's Got Talent' Season 19 on NBC on Tuesdays at 8 pm ET