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'AGT' Season 17: Fans feel 'Debbii Dawson was robbed' as Jordan Conley is named 'Wild Card Act'

The final position in the live performances was won by comic Jordan Conley, announced host Terry Crews during the August 9 episode

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA: Things just got serious on 'America's Got Talent.' The six-week run of live performances for Season 17 began on August 9, revealing which wild card was selected by fans to complete the lineup of 55 performers presently vying for America's votes.

The week before, 'AGT' viewers were handed their first voting assignment of the 17th season — deciding who would be the 55th and final live show performer. The selection was narrowed down by judges Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, and Simon Cowell, first by increasing the total amount from 36 to 55, and then by leaving the ultimate decision up to the fans. Fans were given the option of voting for one of four contestants, comedian Jordan Conley, sword swallower Auzzy Blood, singer Debbii Dawson, and vocalist Ben Waites. During the live event on August 9, host Terry Crews officially revealed the results, leaving Jordan ecstatic.

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The comic was easily the finest stand-up comedian showcased in that episode during his original audition. His self-assurance and contagious attitude charmed the judges, who unanimously voted to promote him to the next round. Simon couldn't stop laughing, and Howie likened him to Kevin Hart. Jordan's stand-up performance revolved around the fact that he was the offspring of two military parents, with anecdotes about how they required that he follow in their footsteps, which Howie enjoyed. The other judges praised him for his "spectacular" enthusiasm, Simon for being "naturally fun," and Heidi for his rapid-fire quips from topic to topic.

Given how much the panelists adored Jordan, it's a bit surprising that he didn't make it to the live events. This year's comedy contest, on the other hand, is exceptionally intense. The Lazy Generation, The Brown Brothers, Mr. Pants, Mike E. Winfield, Lace Larrabee, Hayden Kristal, Don McMillan, Ben Lapidus, and Aiko Tanaka are among this year's 55 live show artists who rely on comedy to get by.

Unfortunately for Jordan, we seldom see wild-card performers advance very far, much alone win the entire competition. The lone exception to this rule is Michael Grasso, who made a name for himself as a magician back in the day. The benefit of this format, as perplexing as it may be for this season, is that anything may happen on any given week. A contestant only needs to come out and perform one outstanding set to alter everything and make it to the finals. Comedy is all about connecting with people and getting them to cheer for you.

Since Jordan's Wild Card entry was announced, fans on social media are of two minds. While some viewers were happy for Jordan, many believed that the other brilliant talents were "robbed." A fan tweeted, "Congratulations to him, but I feel like Debbii Dawson was robbed." Another fan while congratulating Jordan wrote, "Jordan Conley got the the public vote spot? Good for him (should've been Ben & Debbii, but ok) ." A fan felt it would be a waste of Wild Card entry if Jordan fails to make his audience laugh, "If this guy doesn't make me laugh, then this was a waste of a Wildcard."

However, there were plenty who congratulated Jordan and were hoping to see him make it through the next rounds. "Congratulations to Jordan Conley! Can’t wait to hear is comedy jokes." A fan who indeed voted for him was glad to see Jordan, "Yes! He was my vote."

Voting is now open. Any of the artists who performed on Tuesday might be sent home during the results broadcast on Wednesday (NBC, 9/8c). Unless you vote to keep them secure, none of the 55 acts are safe. Do you believe the proper wild card made the top 55? And which of those performers do you think has the best chance of winning? Click here to refresh your memory on everyone who is still competing.

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