America’s Got Talent 2026 Recap: Top 10 Final Performances and Live Blog
The America’s Got Talent Top 10 performed one final time on the Sept. 22 semifinal night for a shot at the $1 million prize and the AGT title. Fans were reminded to cast their votes via the app, on NBC.com and on TikTok. Results were scheduled to be revealed during the live finale results show on Sept. 23 at 9 p.m. ET.
Simon Cowell OUT for the season
Simon Cowell was absent from the judges’ table for the semifinals and was not expected back for the finale as he continues to recover from recent surgery related to his earlier e-bike accident. Filling his seat this week was guest judge KSI, joining regular judges Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel and Mel B. Offstage, Lele Pons handled backstage TikTok duties while the evening was introduced by a boxing host alongside Terry Crews.
Royal Lasers – Laser Dance
Royal Lasers opened with a high-energy laser and light show. The group, who met during an AGT residency, delivered a polished routine full of synchronized movement and creative lighting effects. Judges praised the performance—Howie and Mel B were enthusiastic, Sofia called it a winning act, and KSI expressed strong admiration. The audience reaction made this one of the night’s standout moments.
Come Here – Dance Group
Come Here showcased a unique blend of dance styles and precise choreography, earning a standing ovation from Mel B. The group highlighted contrasting techniques and theatrical staging, which Sofia suggested would be Super Bowl–worthy. Howie noted a preference for their earlier audition but still praised their creativity and execution. The judges admired the group’s originality and emotional performance.
Lai Noelle – Singer
Fourteen-year-old Lai Noelle returned with a mature vocal performance that drew comparisons to classic vocalists. Her control, phrasing and range impressed the panel. KSI called the performance incredible and said Lai seems born for the stage, while Howie urged her to relax and enjoy herself. Sofia described the voice as mesmerizing and otherworldly.
Veronika Goroshkova – Aerial Pole
Veronika delivered a daring aerial pole routine that combined strength, flexibility and dramatic staging. Emotional backstory and the surprise appearance of her mother in the audience added to the impact. Judges praised her athleticism and escalation: Sofia noted steady improvement, Howie applauded her strength, and Mel B said she left everything on stage.
Agro Canine Crew – Dog Act featuring group acrobatics
Agro Canine Crew presented a joyful dog act that mixes acrobatics and trained tricks. Despite an injury to one of the human performers that required a last-minute adjustment, the team completed a heartwarming and entertaining routine. Judges complimented the spectacle—Howie called it “Best in Show,” Mel B said the act brought smiles, and Sofia praised the trainers’ dedication.
Hundred Fingers – Magician group
Hundred Fingers returned with a theatrical magic set that drew enthusiastic praise from Howie, who had previously awarded them Golden Buzzers. The group combined large-scale illusions with tight presentation, prompting Howie to call it one of the best magic acts he’d seen. Mel B acknowledged how much the team had grown, and the judges agreed the production value made the performance memorable.
Nene Royale – Singer guitarist
Sixteen-year-old Nene Royale, already a viral sensation, delivered a commanding, dramatic rock performance of “Seven Nation Army.” Her guitar playing and stage presence were the night’s intensity highlights. Judges celebrated her energy and impact; Howie referenced her viral momentum, Mel B defended her earlier Golden Buzzer choice, and Sofia said viewers can’t get enough of her performances.
Olivia Befus – Animal Act
Olivia Befus returned with a warm showcase featuring her dogs. After a soccer injury introduced her to dog training, her act has grown into a heartfelt routine built on rapport with her animals. The judges noted her nerves but praised her persistence and the charm of her canine partners. Sofia and Mel B commended Olivia’s resilience, and Howie predicted fans would be supportive.
Geno Ploeger – Magician
Geno, who trained with magician Mat Franco, offered a close-up card routine with strong storytelling elements. The performance emphasized technical skill and showmanship, earning praise from the judges for its polish and heartfelt delivery. Mel B and Sofia recognized the personal significance of this run for Geno, and Howie appreciated the joy he brings to his act.
Unitree – Robot dance group
Unitree returned with a tightly choreographed robot-dance routine featuring advanced robotics. The performance prompted mixed reactions: Mel B commented on the uncanny motion, Sofia expressed being impressed by the precision, and KSI marveled at the act’s technical achievement. The production values were high, and the act proved visually striking on the AGT stage.
Fans were invited to tune in the following night, Sept. 23 at 9 p.m. ET on NBC, for the live finale and the announcement of the season’s winner. With the Top 10 showcasing a wide range of talent across dance, magic, music, aerial arts and animal acts, the competition promised a close race for the AGT crown.