'America's Got Talent: Extreme': Aaron Wheelz is 1st specially-abled athlete on show
When Simon Cowell hyped up 'America's Got Talent: Extreme' ahead of the much-awaited reality show's premiere, he wasn't kidding. One of the contestants Aaron Fotheringham, better known as Aaron Wheelz, is all set to wow the audience with his extreme act. The only caveat? The man is specially-abled. Fans will remember the man on a green wheelchair sliding down a ramp at high speed while Simon and the judges watch shell-shocked. While the sequence is incomplete, Aaron has already got the buzz going among those wanting to watch the show
The official synopsis reads, "The “America’s Got Talent” franchise expands with this new series showcasing the most outrageous, unique, and jaw-dropping acts of enormous scale and magnitude that simply can’t be confined to a theater stage. Contestants will vie for a chance to win a $500,000 prize and the ultimate title, the champion of 'America’s Got Talent: Extreme.' Creator and executive producer Simon Cowell will judge alongside WWE superstar Nikki Bella and motocross and rally car driver Travis Pastrana. 'America’s Got Talent' host Terry Crews will also serve as the show's host. Simon Cowell, Sam Donnelly, Jason Raff, and Richard Wallace are the executive producers. 'America’s Got Talent: Extreme' is co-produced by Fremantle and Syco Entertainment.
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Who is Aaron 'Wheelz' Fotheringham?
The 29-year-old hails from Las Vegas and was born with spina bifida and was reliant on crutches before he had a new set of wheels in the form of a wheelchair. He is one of the successful WCMX (Wheelchair Motocross) athletes and despite the initial struggle is one of the more well-known players on the circuit. A quick look at his Instagram profile will show the insanity and the daredevilry he's known for. Add to that his relentless pursuit to be the best in the sport, Aaron will be one of the key contestants to watch out for.
With 514k followers on IG, the athlete also shows his love for his dog. He's married to his girlfriend Charlee and says she is fully supportive of his career as an extreme athlete. Prior to the show's premiere, he took to the platform saying, "I am so pumped to be competing on @AGT EXTREME - make sure you tune in Monday 8/7c for the premier of @AGTExtreme 🔥🙌🏼 #wheelchairmotocross #wcmx #AGTExtreme #AGT #wheelchairlife #thankyouspinabifida." Only time will tell if Aaron will walk away with the whopping cash prize at the end while also claiming the title in the maiden season.
'AGT: Extreme' premieres Monday, February 21 on NBC
