AGT: Fantasy League Qualifiers lineup includes more fan-favorite acts
America’s Got Talent returns with its new format, AGT: Fantasy League, continuing into Week 2 on Monday, January 8 on NBC. The eight-week season showcases 40 acts selected by viewers and organized into teams chosen by judges Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, Mel B, and Simon Cowell. Each judge built a “dream team” of performers to represent them across the competition.
The winner of AGT: Fantasy League will receive a $250,000 prize. The Qualifiers round spans four weeks, featuring ten acts per episode. The studio audience votes to send five acts forward each week, while each judge holds a golden buzzer. Judges can use that golden buzzer on a member of their own team or steal another judge’s contestant; any golden buzzer recipient earns a direct spot in the finale, skipping the semifinal round.
Producers and the show shared team assignments on social channels ahead of the broadcast. This week’s episode brings a mix of returning favorites and international acts—Heidi adds three team members this week after having one perform last week, while Mel B’s roster leans toward group performances. AGT: Fantasy League airs Mondays on NBC at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Below are the acts set to perform this week, with notes on their backgrounds and previous competition experience.
Adrian Stoica & Hurricane – Dog Act – Team Simon Cowell – AGT S18 Winner
Adrian Stoica and his dog Hurricane, winners of America’s Got Talent season 18, return to defend their title. NBC released a preview clip of their upcoming performance. The duo stands out among dog acts because Adrian, who is from Italy, relies on precise timing and trust rather than treats or obvious cues, creating routines that look effortless and heartfelt. Expect a mix of agility, comedy, and emotional connection between trainer and pet.
Drake Milligan – Country Singer – Team Howie Mandel – AGT S17 Finalist
Drake Milligan, a country singer who reached the finals on AGT season 17, returns to the stage with new music. When he first appeared on the show in 2022, Milligan already had a record deal and used the platform to promote his releases. He has released a new single ahead of this appearance and plans to drop an EP just before the season finale, offering fans fresh material alongside his live performance.
Grace Good – Hoop Artist – Team Heidi Klum – AGT S18
Grace Good, a Nashville-based hoop artist who blends hula hooping, fire performance, and aerial acrobatics, returns after being eliminated in the qualifiers of AGT season 18. A popular creator on social platforms, Grace is known for high-flying stunts, fiery props, and precise hoop work performed at dramatic heights. Her act combines athleticism and theatrical flair, making her a standout on stage.
Mersey Girls – Dance Group – Team Mel B. – BGT S11, BGT: THE CHAMPIONS
The Mersey Girls, a dance troupe best known to UK audiences from Britain’s Got Talent season 11 and BGT: The Champions, make their first appearance for American viewers on AGT: Fantasy League. The group earned praise for choreography and stage presence; their backstory includes overcoming personal challenges, and they return with the kind of polished group routines that showcase precision and emotion.
Piff the Magic Dragon – Magician – Team Heidi Klum – AGT S10, AGT: THE CHAMPIONS S1
Piff the Magic Dragon, the stage persona of British comedian and magician John van der Put, returns with his trademark blend of deadpan comedy and magic. A finalist on AGT season 10 and a competitor on AGT: The Champions, Piff is often joined by his chihuahua, Mr. Piffles, and has since established a Las Vegas residency. His act combines classic illusions with a distinct comedic twist.
Preacher Lawson – Comedian – Team Howie Mandel – AGT S12, AGT: THE CHAMPIONS S1, BGT: THE CHAMPIONS
Comedian Preacher Lawson joins Howie Mandel’s team for a fourth run in the Got Talent universe. A finalist on AGT season 12 and a strong contender on both AGT: The Champions and BGT: The Champions, Lawson is known for high-energy stand-up and crowd interaction. His return reflects both his popularity and the comedic edge he brings to live television.
Ramadhani Brothers – Hand Balancers – Team Heidi Klum – AGT S18
The Ramadhani Brothers from Nigeria perform jaw-dropping hand-balancing stunts, including climbs and perilous feats that test balance and endurance. They reached the Top 5 in AGT season 18, and their current performance promises the same tension and technical skill that made them a standout act previously.
Sheldon Riley – Singer – Team Mel B. – AGT S15
Australian singer Sheldon Riley, known for performing behind ornate veils and delivering haunting vocal performances, returns after competing on AGT season 15. He previously appeared on The Voice Australia and X Factor Australia, and he represented Australia in the 2022 European Song Contest, advancing to the finals and finishing 15th. Riley’s theatrical approach and distinctive voice continue to draw attention.
Vardanyan Brothers – Acrobats – Team Mel B. – BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT S13
The Vardanyan Brothers, acrobats who reached the semifinals of Britain’s Got Talent season 13, perform intense acrobatic and balancing routines that often include dramatic props such as swords and fire. Brothers Grevorg and Andranik bring a mix of danger and precision to every routine, blending teamwork with high-risk elements.
Wes-P – Comedian – Team Simon Cowell – AGT S13
Wes-P, who originally auditioned for AGT season 13, is back on Simon Cowell’s team. Known for risqué comedy and physical stunts, he failed to progress past the audition round in his earlier run. He has since built a large online audience, which likely contributed to his inclusion this season. Expect a performance designed to provoke reaction and attention online as well as on stage.
AGT: Fantasy League combines fan selection with judge-driven team strategy, bringing back memorable performers and fresh talent. Tune in Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC to watch the Qualifiers and see which acts advance toward the finale and the $250,000 prize.