America’s Got Talent 2026 concluded tonight with the season 21 finale and the announcement of the champion. The winner takes home a $1 million annuity and the AGT title.

America’s Got Talent 2026 Finale Poll Results: We Predict the Winner
America’s Got Talent 2026 Recap: Top 10 Final Performances Live Blog

The America’s Got Talent 2026 Top 10 finalists were: Royal Lasers, Come Here, Lai Noell, Veronika Goroshkova, Agro Canine Crew, Hundred Fingers, Nene Royal, Olivia Befus, Geno Ploeger and Unitree.

Guest performers for the finale included Linkin Park, Josh Groban, REI AMI, Chloe Flower, last year’s winner Jessica Sanchez and Steve Aoki. Lele Pons returned as the backstage TikTok correspondent.

Judging the finale, KSI filled in for Simon Cowell, who is recovering from back surgery. He joined returning judges Mel B, Sofía Vergara and Howie Mandel.

The broadcast opened with a highlights montage from the previous night before moving into tonight’s guest performances and the finale acts.

Come Here performs with REI AMI from K-Pop Demon Hunters

Dance crew Come Here teamed up with REI AMI for a high-energy set. Their polished choreography and synchronized moves fit the pop-oriented arrangement; while the presentation leaned toward mainstream Disney-pop aesthetics, the group’s stage presence and timing remained strong.

Unitree and Royal Lasers take the stage — Steve Aoki

Robotic performers Unitree and the visual dance troupe Royal Lasers shared the stage during a collaboration with Steve Aoki. Royal Lasers delivered an engaging routine even during moments when the lasers weren’t prominent, underscoring the group’s choreography and timing. Unitree’s performance highlighted the precision of their robotic acts.

Teen correspondent segment and behind-the-scenes moments

The show featured short backstage segments with younger social media personalities interacting with contestants. Those clips offered lighthearted interviews and glimpses into rehearsals. The broadcast also highlighted host Terry Crews’ creative background and his artistic talents, including details about his scholarships and early interests.

Olivia Befus and Acro Canine Crew join forces with Lele Pons

Acrobat-singer Olivia Befus and the Acro Canine Crew performed together alongside Lele Pons. The pairing combined vocal performance with trained dog routines for an entertaining and family-friendly segment, highlighting teamwork between human and animal performers.

Veronika Goroshkova and Josh Groban perform

Singer Josh Groban joined vocal and performance artist Veronika Goroshkova for an emotive set. Groban delivered a powerful vocal outing while Veronika supported the performance with her distinctive stage craft and movement, creating a dramatic and memorable moment.

The show also ran a behind-the-scenes interview segment with a TikTok backstage correspondent, offering additional contestant soundbites and candid moments from the Top 10.

Geno Ploeger and mentor Mat Franco perform magic

Magician Geno Ploeger performed alongside his mentor, veteran illusionist Mat Franco. The duo delivered a polished show of sleight-of-hand and theatrical illusions that underscored Geno’s growth and stagecraft under Franco’s guidance.

Hundred Fingers and Chloe Flower join forces

The acrobatic ensemble Hundred Fingers teamed with classical pianist Chloe Flower for a dramatic collaboration. Chloe performed her composition “Winter,” providing a rich musical backdrop to the group’s precision-driven and theatrical routines.

Linkin Park and Nene Royal unite on stage

Rock band Linkin Park performed with finalist Nene Royal in a high-energy collaboration. The performance was intense and showcased Linkin Park’s heavier sound alongside Nene’s dynamic presence. The segment also acknowledged past band members and their legacy.

Lai Noelle and Jessica Sanchez perform

Former AGT winner Jessica Sanchez returned to perform alongside Lai Noell. The two vocalists offered a harmonized set that highlighted their similar vocal styles. Jessica included her new single “Beggin’” in the performance.

Finally, time for RESULTS

After a season recap and clips of the Top 10 audition highlights, host Terry Crews began revealing which acts advanced based on America’s votes.

Royal Lasers and Come Here joined Terry first. America voted: the first act to secure a Top 5 spot was Royal Lasers. Come Here was eliminated from the competition.

Next, Hundred Fingers and Olivia Befus stood together for the result. America voted: Hundred Fingers advanced to the Top 5. Olivia Befus was eliminated.

For the third Top 5 slot, Veronika Goroshkova and Lai Noell awaited the announcement. America voted: Veronika Goroshkova advanced. Lai Noell was eliminated.

The fourth decision pitted Nene Royal against Unitree. The audience response favored Nene Royal, who moved into the Top 5, while Unitree was eliminated.

The final Top 5 spot came down to Acro Canine Crew and Geno Ploeger. America voted: Geno Ploeger earned the fifth and final Top 5 position. Acro Canine Crew was eliminated.

Terry Reveals the Top 3

With the Top 5 set, the show revealed the final placements as America’s votes came in. The act finishing in fifth place and leaving the competition was Veronika Goroshkova. The act finishing in fourth place was Royal Lasers. The third-place finisher was Hundred Fingers, and judge Howie Mandel pledged personal support to help produce them.

That left the final two finalists: Nene Royal and Geno Ploeger. The winner announced was Nene Royal. Geno Ploeger finished as runner-up.

AND THE WINNER OF AMERICA’S GOT TALENT is NENE ROYAL — GENO PLOEGER RUNNER-UP

Nene Royal was crowned the AGT 2026 champion and will receive the season’s grand prize. The finale included celebratory moments, reactions from the judges, and reflections on the season from finalists and guests.

Eliminated

Geno Ploeger – Runner-up
Hundred Fingers – Third Place
Royal Lasers – Fourth Place
Veronika Goroshkova – Fifth Place
Come Here
Olivia Befus
Lai Noell
Unitree
Acro Canine Crew

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The Voice Season 30 Premiere — Part 3 Recap

The three-night premiere of The Voice Season 30 concluded on September 23 with the third installment featuring veteran coaches Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine alongside newcomers Riley Green and Queen Latifah. Carson Daly returned as host for the finale of the blind audition episodes. This season introduces a new strategic element, the “First In Button,” which allows the coach who turns first during a multi-chair decision to claim the artist immediately. Each coach can use that button only once.

Lexi Chooses Adam Levine

The episode opened with the resolution of a previous cliffhanger: four-chair turn artist Lexi Stephens revealed her choice of coach. After all four coaches turned, Lexi selected Adam Levine, who praised her as a potential winner. Lexi said she initially auditioned thinking of Kelly Clarkson, but ultimately chose Adam.

Kyle Davis — 61 — Prince George, Virginia

Kyle Davis, age 61, surprised with a passionate rendition of “In Your Eyes” by Peter Gabriel. His voice carried a gravelly, experienced tone rather than sounding like an “old man” voice. The coaches compared his delivery to classic rock vocalists, with Kelly drawing parallels to Bono. Kyle explained he once had a record deal with Phil Ramone but stepped away from music to raise a family and later worked in real estate. His decades of experience earned him a four-chair turn, and he ultimately chose Kelly as his coach.

Kenna Elpers — 23 — Indiana

Kenna, who has opened for Riley Green at live shows, performed “White Horse” by Chris Stapleton. Queen Latifah turned early, and Riley turned at the last moment. Her raspy tone combined with the band sometimes made the vocals less distinct, but the coaches encouraged her potential. Kenna referenced the festival where she and Riley crossed paths and even gifted him a koozie tied to that memory. She selected Riley as her coach after both Queen and Riley turned.

Morgan Lett — 27 — Akron, Ohio

Morgan delivered a soulful, big-voiced performance of “I’m Goin’ Down.” Her old-school approach and strong vocal presence prompted quick turns from Queen Latifah and Riley Green. Coaches praised her impressive range and emotional delivery, noting moments that stretched beyond expectations. Morgan chose Queen Latifah as her coach, citing the connection to the song and Queen’s response.

Brooklyn Marie — 14 — Alexandria, Minnesota

Fourteen-year-old Brooklyn Marie, a farm-raised performer who has been singing locally since age 11, tackled Olivia Rodrigo’s “Traitor.” Queen Latifah turned quickly, and Kelly Clarkson followed. While the coaches acknowledged Brooklyn’s early start and stage experience, some felt her voice remains very young and would benefit from further growth before competing on a national stage. Brooklyn ultimately chose Kelly, telling her that Kelly had always been her inspiration.

Conor Pederson — 26 — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Conor performed “Mercy” by Shawn Mendes with a pleasant tone and a tremulous vibrato. Working in corporate finance by day, he showed promise but struggled with timing and dynamics when singing with the full band, and no coaches turned. Adam suggested Conor might return with a more stripped-down performance that showcases his acoustic strengths.

Amanda Mikkel — 31 — Dayton, Ohio / Los Angeles

Amanda, who now lives in Los Angeles and described a difficult period when she slept in her car, chose “Moon River” for her audition. Her warm, clear tone and heartfelt phrasing impressed all four coaches, producing a unanimous four-chair turn. Adam Levine called her voice “pure” and pressed his “First In Button” to claim her immediately, using his one-time advantage. Amanda confirmed she would have chosen Adam.

The third night wrapped up strong, highlighting a mix of experienced performers and promising young talent. Coaches leaned into different strengths—vocal maturity, storytelling, country roots, and soulful expression—while the new First In Button added an extra strategic edge. The Voice schedule transitions to two-hour episodes on Monday nights at 8 PM on NBC, with episodes available to stream on Peacock the next day.

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America’s Got Talent 2026 finale poll results: We predict the winner of Season 21

As the America’s Got Talent Season 21 finale approaches, the outcome looks increasingly clear. Teen heavy-metal singer and guitarist Nene Royal from Thailand has dominated audience attention all season, and the recent polls confirm she is the frontrunner. Across multiple polls — including who viewers think should win, who will win, and who was the favorite performance — Nene leads by a wide margin.

The finale promises the usual mix of celebrity duets with the finalists, extended performance packages and commentary from the judges. Host Terry Crews will guide the show as the Top 5 are announced and, ultimately, the season’s winner revealed in the closing moments. Judges Howie Mandel, Mel B and Sofia Vergara are set to appear at the panel; Simon Cowell has been absent from some live shows as he continues recovery from his 2020 accident and related surgery.

Below are the final poll numbers from our audience voting across three separate categories. These results reflect strong, consistent support for Nene Royal and help explain why many viewers expect her to take the trophy.

Prediction

Given the scale of her lead in every poll, the most likely outcome is that Nene Royal will be crowned the winner of America’s Got Talent 2026. Her blend of powerful vocals and guitar work, combined with a passionate and active fanbase that amplifies her performances online and at live appearances, has produced remarkably high poll totals. While live voting on the finale can always shift the result, Nene’s momentum entering the final night is substantial.

Across our three main polls she earned roughly two-thirds of the vote in each: approximately 65% in the “should win” poll, nearly 70% in the “will win” poll, and about 67% in the “favorite performance” poll. Those figures represent a decisive advantage over the other finalists.

Which AGT act SHOULD win?

1. Nene Royal – Singer/guitarist – 64.93%
2. Hundred Fingers – Magician group – 11.78%
3. Geno Ploeger – Magician – 5.75%
4. Agro Canine Crew – Dog act – 4.38%
5. Royal Lasers – Laser dance – 4.38%
6. Come Here – Dance group – 3.01%
7. Veronika Goroshkova – Aerial pole – 2.47%
8. Lai Noelle – Singer – 2.19%
9. Unitree – Robot dance group – 0.82%
10. Olivia Befus – Animal act – 0.27%

Which AGT act WILL win?

1. Nene Royal – Singer/guitarist – 69.68%
2. Hundred Fingers – Magician group – 7.73%
3. Geno Ploeger – Magician – 5.54%
4. Agro Canine Crew – Dog act – 5.25%
5. Royal Lasers – Laser dance – 3.79%
6. Unitree – Robot dance group – 2.62%
7. Lai Noelle – Singer – 2.04%
8. Veronika Goroshkova – Aerial pole – 1.31%
9. Come Here – Dance group – 1.17%
10. Olivia Befus – Animal act – 0.87%

Vote for your favorite performance

1. Nene Royal – Singer/guitarist – 66.88%
2. Hundred Fingers – Magician group – 9.00%
3. Agro Canine Crew – Dog act – 5.79%
4. Geno Ploeger – Magician – 5.14%
5. Royal Lasers – Laser dance – 4.82%
6. Come Here – Dance group – 2.89%
7. Veronika Goroshkova – Aerial pole – 2.25%
8. Lai Noelle – Singer – 1.93%
9. Unitree – Robot dance group – 0.64%
10. Olivia Befus – Animal act – 0.64%

America’s Got Talent season 21 finale airs on NBC at 9:00 PM ET/PT, following an hour-long edition of The Voice at 8:00 PM ET/PT. The finale will be available to stream on the network’s platform the next day.

Whether the final result matches the polls or a late surge changes the outcome, the Season 21 finale promises memorable performances and a dramatic finish. Fans will be watching to see if Nene Royal’s commanding lead translates into the trophy and the next chapter of her career.

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AGT 2026 FINALE: Which Act WILL Win? Which Act SHOULD Win?

America’s Got Talent 2026 continued its live shows on Tuesday night, September 22, with the highly anticipated finale performances. Ten finalists took the stage, each hoping to secure the public vote and the grand prize: a $1 million prize paid as an annuity and the title of America’s Got Talent 2026. Fans across the country tuned in to watch a wide range of acts, from cutting-edge laser dance routines to breathtaking aerial performances and moments of pure viral musical talent.

As the live shows closed, several performers stood out and generated significant buzz. Teen sensation and viral musician Nene Royal emerged as an early favorite among viewers, while the innovative Laser Dance troupe Royal Lasers impressed with high-energy production value. Dance group Come Here delivered synchronized choreography and stage presence, aerial pole artist Veronika Goroshkova returned with a dramatic and athletic routine, and magician Geno Ploeger offered charming sleight of hand and theatrical flair.

AGT 2026 Finale Polls

We ran reader polls to capture fan sentiment heading into the final night. Those polls gauged which act readers believed would win, which act they thought deserved to win, and which performer was their personal favorite. These informal results help illustrate the split between viral popularity, technical merit, and audience affection that often shapes AGT outcomes.

Below are the original poll placeholders. Interactive elements have been removed from this version, but the poll topics are preserved for context.

Which act WILL Win America’s Got Talent 2026?

Which act SHOULD Win America’s Got Talent 2026?

Vote for Your Favorite Act

Across the finalist lineup, several themes and strengths emerged. Nene Royal’s performances combined modern songwriting with a strong online following, giving the teen performer a visibility edge heading into final voting. Royal Lasers leaned into spectacle, using precision choreography and lighting design to create a showpiece that translated well to the large finale stage. Come Here offered tight group dynamics and polished dance technique, while Veronika Goroshkova’s aerial pole work showcased elite athleticism and artistic expression. Geno Ploeger’s illusion act emphasized showmanship and audience connection, a reminder that variety acts remain essential to the AGT formula.

Predicting a winner in a season finale always involves weighing many factors: viral momentum, vocal or technical skill, production scale, and emotional resonance with the voting audience. This season’s field illustrates that blend—some acts lean on social media buzz, others on flawless live execution, and many on a mix of both. For fans watching live, the differences between who will win and who should win can be significant: popularity does not always align perfectly with technical greatness, but both elements play a role in the final outcome.

The official winner will be revealed during the two-hour finale airing Wednesday, September 23 at 9 pm on NBC. The episode follows an hour of programming at 8 pm and will determine which finalist earns the grand prize and the AGT trophy. Until then, viewers are invited to reflect on which acts moved them the most and to support their favorites however the official show’s voting system allows.

America’s Got Talent finale airs Wednesday, September 23 at 9 pm on NBC, streaming next day on Peacock.

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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.

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The Voice 30 Premiere Part 2 Recap and Live Blog (Videos)

The three-night premiere of The Voice Season 30 continues tonight (Sept. 22) with Night 2 showcasing veteran coaches Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine alongside newcomers Riley Green and Queen Latifah. Carson Daly returns as host for this milestone season.

The Voice 30 Will Feature 6 Weeks Live Shows

A new twist this season, the “First In Button,” allows the coach who turns first during a multi-chair turn to claim the artist instantly—before the performer makes a final choice. Each coach can use this button only once during the blind auditions.

Koumba Diallo – 15 – DeLeon, California

Koumba, a committed school choir singer and clear overachiever, performed with poise and a surprisingly powerful voice for her age. Her audition demonstrated strong control and stage confidence, earning a four-chair turn from the coaches.

Adam admitted he could barely do anything at 15, prompting lighthearted ribbing from Riley, who joked about Adam’s age. The coaches traded playful competitive banter—Riley and Adam sparred briefly while Kelly praised Koumba’s mother and emphasized that she has experience guiding young winners. Queen Latifah noted she began her career at 15. After the pitches, Koumba chose Kelly Clarkson to be her coach. Result: 4-chair turn; Koumba picks Kelly.

Alt Bloom – 36 – Whitefish, Montana

Alt Bloom—whose stage name reflects his Montana roots and love of nature—has been making music for about 11 years. He sang “The Bones,” delivering a pretty, resonant vocal with passionate dynamics and a solid tonal center. Queen Latifah was the first to turn, followed by Riley Green. Adam Levine held off as he wanted to hear more.

Queen enthusiastically sold Alt Bloom on his potential, even offering a brief musical tease with backup singers. Riley appreciated his genre-blending approach and the creative rearrangement Alt Bloom made of the song. After both coaches made their cases, Alt Bloom chose Queen Latifah. Riley expressed mock frustration at losing the contestant. Result: Queen and Riley turn; Alt Bloom picks Queen.

Johnnie Kapua – 32 – Utah

Johnnie, a married father whose wife is expecting their third child, auditioned at his wife’s urging. Both Kelly Clarkson and Queen Latifah turned their chairs for him. His tone and phrasing drew praise for their beauty, though Adam Levine noted some control issues he felt needed work.

Born in New Zealand and now living in Utah, Johnnie impressed Kelly enough that she used her First In Button to secure him immediately, apologizing playfully in the moment. Johnnie indicated he was happy with Kelly’s choice. Result: Kelly and Queen turn; Kelly uses First In Button.

Harmony McKee – 19 – Medina, Tennessee

Harmony, who typically sings R&B, surprised by choosing a country song by Miranda Lambert for her audition. Despite stepping into a different genre, she delivered the material naturally, showcasing a sturdy contralto and wide, expressive range. Her performance earned turns from Riley Green and Adam Levine.

The coaches were impressed by her versatility and emotional delivery; Queen noted that Harmony truly felt the song. Harmony mentioned a theater background, and Riley compared her to Chris Stapleton in spirit. After the pitches, Harmony selected Riley Green as her coach. Result: Riley and Adam turn; Harmony picks Riley.

Ethan Shobert – 19 – Charlotte, North Carolina

Ethan shared a dramatic backstory about serious breathing issues as an infant, but tonight’s audition revealed pitch and projection problems. Nervous and tentative in his delivery, he did not receive any turns from the coaches. Adam suggested he take more time to develop and return better prepared. Result: No turns.

Saniah Jewel

A brief moment focused on Saniah Jewel appeared in the episode, showing the coaches’ reactions and the emotional aftermath for contestants who don’t advance. The short sequence included Riley Green consoling a disappointed performer.

Lexi Stephens – 23 – Albany, New York

Lexi, who grew up watching singing competitions with her father and now supports herself by walking dogs in New York, delivered a polished audition of “Die on This Hill.” Her sweet timbre and notable head voice impressed the coaches and led to a four-chair turn.

Coaches competed fiercely for Lexi. Adam called her audition among the best blind auditions and even predicted she had a real shot to win the season. Queen Latifah praised her consistency, and Riley highlighted her standout talent. Kelly emphasized that Lexi’s previous performance experience would make her a strong competitor. The segment closed on a cliffhanger as Lexi’s final decision was left unresolved on the broadcast: Lexi picks TO BE CONTINUED.

Overall, Night 2 of The Voice Season 30 mixed seasoned performers with surprising new voices, while the coaches continued to draw on experience, personality, and the new First In Button in their efforts to build strong teams. Expect more drama, strategic moves, and standout performances as the blind auditions conclude.

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Dancing with the Stars Season 35 — Week 2 Recap: Viral Hits Night

Welcome to the Week 2 recap of Dancing with the Stars Season 35. Tonight’s theme was Viral Hits Night, with each couple performing to a song that found fame on social media. Fourteen couples returned after the premiere, all aiming to raise their scores, win audience votes, and stay in the competition. Hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough guided the evening while judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli delivered the critiques.

A quick reminder about voting: you can vote online at dwtsvote.abc.com or by texting the celebrity’s name to 21523. Voting opens at the start of the show and closes before the final commercial break. Each fan can cast up to ten votes per couple via each method, for a maximum of twenty votes per couple.

Troupe Opening

The troupe opened the show and the hosts quickly introduced all fourteen remaining partnerships. The pace felt brisk, with short rehearsal montages and quick transitions—clearly a fast-moving night designed to fit many performances and one elimination into a single episode.

Jenna & Val – Jive

Jenna and Val delivered a high-energy jive filled with sharp kicks and playful choreography. Jenna, a trained dancer, moved like a confident soloist and matched Val’s athleticism. The routine packed punch and the partnership looked tightly synchronized.

Judges: Bruno praised the speed, Carrie Ann noted connected resistance, and Derek summed it up as fast and fantastic. Score: 21/30.

Ciara & Brandon – Tango

Ciara improved from last week with stronger presence and better composure. The tango still needs more fluidity—the transitions felt slightly start-and-stop—but her posture and performance quality showed real progress.

Judges: Carrie Ann said Ciara “entered the building,” Derek praised her look while advising sharper frame, and Bruno called it beautiful. Score: 18/30.

Tyler & Sharna – Salsa

Tyler’s athleticism showed, but the salsa leaned toward showy lifts and cabaret rather than authentic salsa technique. The routine was impressive in moments but lacked consistent salsa content and polish.

Judges: Derek felt it was more cabaret than salsa; Bruno wanted more salsa content; Carrie Ann called it impressive. Score: 16/30.

Julia & Ezra – Tango

Julia stepped out of her comfort zone with a strong tango, showing solid posture and dramatic performance. Her acting ability enhanced the storytelling, and with memorable choreography she could climb higher on the leaderboard.

Judges: Bruno liked the persona despite a few stumbles, Carrie Ann praised posture, and Derek applauded the performance. Score: 16/30.

Jackson & Emma – Foxtrot

Jackson showed clear improvement with a graceful foxtrot and some impressive glide. A few technical moments needed tightening, but overall it was a pretty, well-executed routine that demonstrated forward momentum.

Judges: Carrie Ann noted improvement, Derek complimented the frame, and Bruno called it charming. Score: 18/30.

Giada & Alan – Salsa

Giada’s salsa came across timid and overly cautious for an inherently lively dance. She lost her footing mid-routine and struggled to regain momentum. The performance felt measured rather than spirited, which hurt the overall impact.

Judges: Derek appreciated her smile but cited timid missteps, Bruno said it lacked spice, and Carrie Ann described it as shaky. Score: 12/30.

Connor & Rylee – Tango

Connor showed determination and many basics were present, but a mid-routine stumble interrupted an otherwise promising tango. Relaxing and sharpening technique will help him showcase his strengths more consistently.

Judges: Bruno applauded the connection despite mistakes, Carrie Ann admired his commitment, and Derek offered a warm personal shout-out. Score: 15/30.

Ezra & Daniella – Cha-Cha-Cha

Ezra brought energy and boldness to a fast cha-cha-cha choreographed by Daniella. While a few moments felt frenetic, the routine contained excellent technique and exciting choreography that captured attention.

Judges: Carrie Ann loved the grit, Derek was impressed by his performance and attitude, and Bruno called it fabulous. Score: 21/30.

Tatyana & Jan – Foxtrot

Tatyana delivered a dramatic foxtrot with strong lines, though heavy stage smoke obscured some footwork. Her acting is a definite strength; now she must refine frame and spatial awareness to maximize her dancing potential.

Judges: Derek found her stunning, Bruno praised the flow while noting the lost footwork in fog, and Carrie Ann called it touching. Score: 18/30.

Amber & Pasha – Tango

Amber and Pasha delivered one of the night’s strongest tangos: controlled, powerful, and fluid. Their partnership and the choreography worked beautifully together, producing a confident, polished routine.

Judges: Bruno named it the best tango of the night, Carrie Ann called it phenomenal, and Derek celebrated the partnership. Score: 21/30.

Guillermo & Witney – Paso Doble

Guillermo remains a crowd favorite for his charm and improvement. The paso doble wasn’t flawless, but the commitment and theatrical moments—like knee slides assisted by the troupe—made it memorable and endearing.

Judges: Carrie Ann praised his effort beyond shtick, Derek noted intention and intensity, and Bruno applauded the passion. Score: 12/30.

Taylor & Britt – Cha-Cha-Cha

Taylor showed promising moments side-by-side with Britt, but arm and finish details were inconsistent. The routine needed more finesse and finishing polish, suggesting more rehearsal time would benefit the partnership.

Judges: Derek urged attention to arm placement, Bruno agreed on technical finishes, and Carrie Ann described the routine as frenetic. Score: 15/30.

Harry & Jenna – Viennese Waltz

Harry offered a bold, powerful Viennese waltz with a strong stage presence and an unexpectedly primal “war cry” moment. The performance favored dramatic power over vulnerability, which worked for some viewers but left technical posture slightly unbalanced.

Judges: Bruno appreciated the performance style, Carrie Ann called for balance work, and Derek described it as beautiful. Score: 18/30.

Maura & Mark – Cha-Cha-Cha

Maura displayed natural dance talent with a clean cha-cha-cha. The routine felt a touch safe and could have used a few faster moments, but her potential is clear and the judges recognized her strong technique.

Judges: Carrie Ann noted her dedication, Derek praised elegance while advising weight placement, and Bruno applauded the effort. Score: 19/30.

Judges’ Scores — Week 2

Top scores of the night were 21s from Jenna, Ezra, and Amber. Maura followed with 19. Several couples earned 18s, and the lower scores included 16s, 15s, and a 12 from Giada and Guillermo.

Summary of judges’ scores:

Jenna – 21

Ezra – 21

Amber – 21

Maura – 19

Ciara – 18

Jackson – 18

Tatyana – 18

Harry – 18

Tyler – 16

Julia – 16

Connor – 15

Taylor – 15

Giada – 12

Voting closed before the results were announced.

Results and Elimination

The following couples were declared safe and will return next week: Tatyana & Jan, Jackson & Emma, Ezra & Daniella, Ciara & Brandon, Taylor & Britt, Amber & Pasha, Maura & Mark, Jenna & Val, Harry & Jenna, Connor & Rylee, Julia & Ezra, Guillermo & Witney, and Tyler & Sharna.

Eliminated this week: Giada & Alan. Giada thanked the judges and hugged her partner as the cast gathered around.

Final note: tonight proved that personality and memorable moments still matter as much as technical skill. Couples with strong storytelling and committed performances earned praise, while others will head back to the rehearsal studio to sharpen technique. Next week’s theme is Yacht Rock Night, offering a different musical palette and fresh opportunities for the remaining couples. Thanks for reading this Viral Hits Night recap—see you next week for another Dancing with the Stars update.

The post Dancing With the Stars Season 35 Week 2 Viral Hits Live Recap first appeared on Live TV World.

Dancing with the Stars 2026 Viral Hits Night: Song Choices and Dance Styles

The competition heats up as 14 couples return to the ballroom for “Viral Hits Night” on Dancing with the Stars. This themed episode pairs iconic viral songs and internet moments with classic ballroom and Latin dance styles, challenging celebrities and their professional partners to blend contemporary music with traditional choreography.

Viral Hits Night airs TUESDAY, SEPT. 22 (8:00–10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT, 7:00–9:00 p.m. CDT), simulcasting live across ABC and Disney+ in local time zones and available the next day on Hulu. The episode is staged in front of a live audience and produced by BBC Studios.

The couples (along with their dance styles and songs) are the following:

• Amber Glenn and partner Pasha Pashkov — Tango to “All the Things She Said” (Harrison)
• Taylor Hanson and partner Britt Stewart — Cha Cha to “Cake By the Ocean” (DNCE)
• Harry Shum Jr. and partner Jenna Johnson — Viennese Waltz to “Iris” (Goo Goo Dolls)
• Guillermo Rodriguez and partner Witney Carson — Paso Doble to “Where Have You Been” (Rihanna)
• Jackson Olson and partner Emma Slater — Foxtrot to “That’s So True” (Gracie Abrams)
• Tatyana Ali and partner Jan Ravnik — Foxtrot to “What Was I Made For?” (Billie Eilish)
• Ezra Frech and partner Daniella Karagach — Cha Cha to “Low” (Flo Rida)
• Tyler Cameron and partner Sharna Burgess — Salsa to “Girls” (The Kid LAROI)
• Connor Wood and partner Rylee Arnold — Tango to “12 to 12” (sombr)
• Maura Higgins and partner Mark Ballas — Cha Cha to “September” (Earth, Wind & Fire)
• Ciara Miller and partner Brandon Armstrong — Tango to “No Broke Boys” (Disco Lines & Tinashe)
• Julia Stiles and partner Ezra Sosa — Tango to “The Door” (Teddy Swims)
• Jenna Dewan and partner Val Chmerkovskiy — Jive to “Animal” (KATSEYE)
• Giada De Laurentiis and partner Alan Bersten — Salsa to “Bella Ciao” (Becky G)

Each pairing combines the energy of a viral track with a particular ballroom or Latin discipline. Tango and Paso Doble bring dramatic intensity and sharp staccato movements well suited to emotionally charged anthems, while Cha Cha, Salsa and Jive emphasize syncopation and playful footwork that complement upbeat viral hits. Foxtrot and Viennese Waltz offer smoother lines and sweeping movement for songs with more melodic or nostalgic tones.

Choreographers and music producers often adapt these viral songs for the competitive format, creating transitions, musical hits and arrangements built to showcase lifts, holds and partnered storytelling. Expect costume and staging choices that reference the original online moments while keeping the routines grounded in ballroom technique.

VOTING

Fans may vote live during the simulcast in the Eastern and Central time zones. Online voting will be open to viewers in any U.S. time zone, U.S. territories and Canada via dwtsvote.abc.com, and participating U.S. wireless carriers will offer SMS/text voting (note: fans in Canada cannot vote via SMS/text). Live viewer votes are combined with the judges’ scores to determine which couples are at risk of elimination.

Voting plays a crucial role each week, as viewer participation can tip the balance when judges’ scores are close. To ensure your vote counts, follow the show’s instructions during the live broadcast for the appropriate voting window and accepted methods.

For fans who want more context, the Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast provides post-show coverage. Hosted by Season 34 contestant Andy Richter, the podcast features cast interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, expert breakdowns of routines and occasional guest appearances. New episodes are released every Thursday on Disney+, Hulu and major podcast platforms.

Dancing with the Stars is co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough. The judging panel includes Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough, who offer technical feedback and score each performance. With themed nights like Viral Hits Night, the series blends pop culture, social media influences and traditional ballroom competition to create memorable television moments.

As the field narrows, Viral Hits Night is an opportunity for contestants to make bold artistic choices, connect with viewers through familiar music and demonstrate growth in performance quality. Whether you tune in for the choreography, the music selections or the competitive drama, this episode promises a mix of high-energy numbers, emotional pieces and inventive choreography built around tracks that dominated online conversations.

The post DWTS 2026 Viral Hits Night: Songs and Dances first appeared on Live TV World.

The three-night premiere of The Voice Season 30 begins tonight (Sept. 21). Returning coaches Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine join newcomers Riley Green and Queen Latifah, with Carson Daly back as host. This season introduces the new “First In Button” twist: the coach who turns first on a multi-chair turn can claim the artist immediately before the contestant chooses. The button can be used only once per coach and replaces The Block from previous seasons.

The Voice 30 opens with a series of blind auditions showcasing a range of styles—from country and R&B to Broadway-inflected vocals—giving a strong sense of the teams each coach hopes to build.

BigCountry – 37 – Tacoma, Washington

BigCountry grew up in Bakersfield, California, and performed in an Army band during a deployment to Afghanistan. He delivered a soulful, energetic rendition of “I Put a Spell on You.” His military band background showed in his versatility and stage presence. All coaches except Kelly turned their chairs, and he ultimately chose Queen Latifah.

Joe Henley – 19 – Lower Alabama

Joe, who grew up singing in church, called himself “classic country” and performed “I Don’t Love You Anymore.” His deep, McCreery-like tone suited the material despite some pitch issues. Both Kelly and Riley turned; after some stage banter and a brief duet with Riley, Joe selected Riley as his coach.

Hazel Gerson – 21 – San Jose, California

Hazel skipped her college graduation to audition and delivered a rich contralto performance that showcased a mature sound. Coaches Kelly and Riley turned. Kelly offered coaching guidance and a leather jacket as a friendly gesture; Hazel chose Kelly to continue her journey.

Marcus Ladden Jr – 19 – Atlanta, Georgia

Marcus opened dramatically and sang “Cry Me a River” with a big, Broadway-style voice. He impressed with both vocal power and theatricality. Kelly and Queen Latifah turned; both emphasized his versatility and performance instincts, and Marcus opted to join Team Queen Latifah.

Destinee Monroe – 32 – Atlantic City, New Jersey

Destinee previously signed with Interscope and toured with major acts before joining a rock band. She performed “Home Sweet Home” (Mötley Crüe) with a clear tone and expressive vibrato. Adam turned first, Queen Latifah followed, and Riley pressed his button late; Destinee chose Adam, giving him his first team member of the night.

Brinkley Wright, Ferryn Wright – 20 & 17

This sister duo — who work at Dollywood and draw on family harmonies — sang “When Will I Be Loved.” Their seamless blend and tight harmonies earned a four-chair turn, and after deliberation they selected Riley Green for their coaching home.

Forté – 31 – Emporia, Virginia

Raised by a single mother who made his stage outfits, Forté channels classic R&B. His rendition of “Before I Let Go” showcased a warm tone and solid range but felt a bit generic, and none of the coaches turned. The emotional moment after the audition highlighted how much this opportunity means to contestants regardless of the outcome.

Caroline Alexis – 25 – Alabama

Caroline, a law school graduate studying for the bar, brought a traditionally country tone and an expressive delivery. Only Riley turned, securing another country artist for his team after he hit the button decisively when the others hesitated.

Mia Knight – 16 – Holmdel, New Jersey

Though only 16, Mia performs with remarkable maturity and stage experience, having toured clubs and logged significant performance time. Kelly, Queen, and Riley turned; Queen used her “First In” button to claim Mia before the contestant could decide, creating tension among the coaches and awarding Queen Latifah an early pick for her team.

Owen Uffens – 18 – Rigby, Idaho

Owen sang an airy, delicate version of “Everybody’s Talking.” While there were some pitch inconsistencies and the performance lacked weight at times, his pleasing tone caught the coaches’ attention. Kelly and Adam turned, and Owen chose Adam as his coach.

Brianna Cameron – 13

At just 13, Brianna delivered a commanding performance of “River Deep – Mountain High,” channeling the drama and growl of classic soul-rock. Her stage confidence and vocal maturity impressed Kelly and Riley, who both turned; Brianna ultimately picked Kelly as her coach.

The premiere sets a clear tone for Season 30: coaches are building teams with distinct identities, the new “First In Button” is already influencing decisions, and a wide variety of genres and ages are represented among the hopefuls. Expect the blind auditions to continue offering surprising turns, emotional backstories, and standout performances as the competition unfolds.

The post The Voice Season 30 Premiere: Live Recap and Video Coverage first appeared on Live TV World.

The Voice 30 Marks the Return of Live Shows and Introduces Simulcast Viewing & All-New Voting Methods

NBC’s long-running musical competition, The Voice, returns for its milestone 30th season beginning Monday, September 21 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. The season opens with a three-night premiere event that continues Tuesday, September 22 and Wednesday, September 23. All episodes will be available to stream the following day on Peacock, with the live shows simulcast across NBC and Peacock in all U.S. time zones for the first time in the series’ history.

This season introduces two new coaches to the panel: Grammy-winning icon Queen Latifah and country star Riley Green join fan favorites Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine. Together the coaches will guide new artists through the Blind Auditions and the reimagined phases of the competition.

All NEW “First In Button” and “Cut Week” twists

Blind Auditions — First In Button: A new strategic element called the “First In Button” gives the coach who turns their chair first in a multi-chair turn the exclusive opportunity to claim that artist immediately, before the artist makes a final decision. Each coach can use this button only once during the Blind Auditions, adding a timely tactical choice to the early rounds.

Cut Week — the biggest elimination round: This season’s Cut Week represents the largest elimination stage in Voice history. During Cut Week each coach will send two artists directly to the Live Shows while five additional team members will compete for a single remaining slot. After coaches finalize their teams, the Top 12 will be set and viewers across the country will vote to select one final artist to join the Lives, creating a Top 13 heading into the live rounds.

SIX weeks of LIVE SHOWS!

Live Shows: The show’s fan-favorite live performances return with six weeks of live broadcasts featuring guest appearances and themed episodes. Planned theme weeks this season include a Dolly Parton Tribute, Y2K, and a TikTok-themed episode. The live phase is also enhanced with new voting and viewing options designed to make it easier for fans to participate and influence the competition in real time.

LIVE shows to be simulcast on NBC and Peacock

Simulcast Viewing: For the first time ever, the Live Shows will air simultaneously on NBC and Peacock in all time zones. This simulcast allows viewers across the country to watch and vote during the same live windows, creating a unified live event experience whether audiences tune in on broadcast television or stream on Peacock.

The Voice introduces social media voting

Brand-New Voting Methods: Viewers will have expanded control over the outcome during the six weeks of Live Shows. In addition to traditional voting paths, fans can cast votes via SMS and through TikTok. Results will be announced the same night, allowing immediate feedback and engagement from the audience. These voting options are intended to reach viewers where they already spend time and encourage real-time participation.

TikTok serves as a season-long partner, bringing creators into the show for behind-the-scenes access, hosting companion live streams before and after episodes, and tracking on-platform sharing activity. TikTok will also feature a reward for the artist who generates the most shares across the platform and will be highlighted by a dedicated TikTok-themed episode during the live run.

The Voice has also partnered with female-founded media company Betches to create original social content and editorial coverage tailored to engage younger and digitally native audiences. Betches’ creators will collaborate with this season’s coaches to extend the conversation beyond the television broadcast and into social channels.

The Voice 30 winner earns spot on The Governors Ball stage

In a first-of-its-kind partnership with Live Nation Studios and The Governors Ball Music Festival, the winner of season 30 will receive a performance slot on the Governors Ball main stage in 2027. This prize provides a significant live performance opportunity on a major festival platform for the season’s champion.

Now on Streaming

Ahead of the season premiere, NBC will air “The Voice: 30th Season Celebration” special on Thursday, September 17 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The special will stream the following day on Peacock and features conversations with past and present coaches reflecting on the show’s evolution. Coaches from the series’ early days to current stars—Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, CeeLo Green, Kelly Clarkson, Gwen Stefani, Queen Latifah, and Riley Green—share memories, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and perspectives on the lasting appeal of The Voice.

Season 30 promises to combine the show’s signature vocal competition with new interactive features, broader streaming access, and social partnerships designed to engage audiences across platforms. With fresh coaching dynamics, format twists like the First In Button and Cut Week, and expanded voting through SMS and TikTok, The Voice returns with renewed energy as it celebrates three decades on air.

The post The Voice Season 30 Announces Six Weeks of Live Shows first appeared on Live TV World.