Did Simon Cowell ruin Shadow Ace's shot at 'AGT: Fantasy League' finals? Heidi Klum calls out NBC judge's lack of participation
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'America's Got Talent: Fantasy League' has released an early preview of Shadow Ace's performance from the upcoming Semifinal episode on Monday, February 5.
The talented shadow puppeteer got judge Simon Cowell involved in his new performance, however, Heidi Klum expressed concern, suggesting that the NBC show's executive producer's lack of engagement lost the contestant a position in the finale.
For his semifinal performance, Shadow Ace asked Simon to assist him by sitting in front of the screen and creating a shadow of his profile while Shadow Ace skillfully demonstrated humorous hand puppets that interacted with the judge.
The other judges enjoyed the performance, which saw Shadow Ace creating the shapes of a dog licking his face, someone picking his nose, and a cowboy dancing on his head to Billy Ray Cyrus' "Achy Breaky Heart".
Shadow Ace received a standing ovation for his most recent performance from the judges, with Simon going a step further and even hugging him afterward.
Howie Mandel praised Shadow Ace acknowledging that he had elevated his act compared to previous routines, describing it as his 'funniest and best routine yet.'
Heidi complimented Shadow Ace, expressing that the performance was 'so funny.' However, she also criticized Simon for not fully engaging more, suggesting that he could have opened his mouth as Shadow Ace pretended to brush his teeth.
Simon, in response, said he couldn't believe he was being criticized for Shadow Ace's performance. Mel B told Shadow Ace that she 'didn't want that to stop,' describing the act as 'brilliant.'
Simon noted that witnessing the performance up close let him understand how 'clever' it is. He stated that he 'wouldn't be surprised' if Shadow Ace advanced to the Finals.
Did Shadow Ace make it to the 'AGT: Fantasy League' finals?
With two acts previously making it through the finals (Simon's Golden Buzzer: Musa Motha and Heidi's Golden Buzzer: V. Unbeatable), the eight remaining acts were reduced to the top three in audience voting, but only one would advance to the finals.
The three performers with the most votes were Kseniya Simonova, Adrian Stocia & Hurricane, and Shadow Ace. Shadow Ace secured the most votes, making him the sole contestant to advance to 'The Finals'!
Who is 'AGT: Fantasy League' star Shadow Ace?
Shadow Ace distanced himself from other children after experiencing bullying in high school. He sought comfort in the abandoned craft of hand-shadow puppetry, where he could interact socially with his shadow personas.
Growing up in the Philippines without electricity, he entertained himself by making shadow paintings on the wall using the reflection of candlelight. Over time, Shadow Ace developed the self-assurance that led him to perform for other people.
During his performance, he concealed himself behind the white curtain, showcasing his skills. Word of his performances soon got around as people were awestruck by his skill and the way he made his hand shadows dance.
Due to the popularity of his act, Shadow Ace won several accolades and championships in talent contests held across the Philippines. His inspiration to meet Beyoncé and resurrect a forgotten art motivated him to participate in 'America's Got Talent.'
Did Shadow Ace win 'America's Got Talent'?
Shadow Ace, who finished third in the voting, is the first performer in Season 18 to close out a semifinal show yet not win in the final.
The only two non-Golden Buzzer acts to go last on a semifinal night in Season 18 were Shadow Ace and 82nd Airborne Chorus.
There have only ever been two hand shadow puppeteers acts in the history of the show—Fun With Hand Shadows from Season 3—and Shadow Ace is the first to make it to the live shows.
Watch the latest episode of 'America's Got Talent: Fantasy League' on Mondays at 8/7c on NBC.