It’s been 10 years since Susan Boyle was launched into superstardom when she appeared as a contestant on the third series of Britain’s Got Talent and now the 57-year-old has made her highly anticipated return to the stage as a contestant on America’s Got Talent: The Champions.
The show, currently airing on NBC in the United States and on Fox 8 in Australia, includes the most popular contestants from international versions of the hit talent program. On Monday evening, it was Susan’s chance to perform.
The 57-year-old explained that she was the runner-up on her year of Britain’s Got Talent and that she felt like she had something to prove to Simon Cowell, who was a judge when she appeared on the reality show for the first time.
“Most of the audience was laughing,” she recalled of her original audition. “But then I opened my mouth and that seemed to change. You don’t expect people to be that excited about you.”
Susan admitted she was shocked she didn’t win Britain’s Got Talent but was overwhelmed that she sold more than 20 million records around the world. In fact, Susan went on to become one of the most recognisable singers in the world, with her debut album becoming the biggest selling album in UK history.
The ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ singer said she considered herself a champion for those without confidence to do things and for people who don’t have a voice and who are ignored.
“I couldn’t possibly walk away from a second chance,” she explained. “I’m excited to show Simon how much I’ve grown since the last time.”
Stepping out on stage in a sparkly blue dress and a trendy hair style, judges Simon, Mel B, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel gave Susan a standing ovation before she even sang a tune. She then sang ‘Wild Horses’ by The Rolling Stones in one of her most emotional performances to date.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGhXkzb0cHM
The performance ended with all four judges giving her another standing ovation, before singing her praises.
“I can’t think of any other contestant who has defined this show better than you,” Simon said. “You’re the one. You’ve made a huge difference to peoples’ lives and I’m absolutely thrilled that you’re here.”
Meanwhile, Mel B gave Susan the Golden Buzzer, meaning she will automatically compete in the live rounds of the competition.
Following the performance, Susan took to her Twitter page to explain how happy she was.
“Truly speechless to have received the Golden Buzzer from @OfficialMelB on #AGTChampions,” she wrote. “Hope you all enjoy this performance! See you in the finals!”
Fans were quick to praise the singer for her performance.
One person on Twitter wrote: “You truly deserve that #GoldenBuzzer Susan! Congrats, see you in the finals!!”
Another comment read: “Delighted to see you, to hear you, and to celebrate your receiving the Golden Buzzer. If ever there were a Golden Buzzer contestant, it’s you, Susan. ‘Looking forward to sharing your journey on #AGTChampions. All the best!”
A further message added: “Susan you really deserved that golden buzzer. You bring such joy and beauty to this world with your story and beautiful voice. Love you.”
Other big-name acts to perform on the series include Australia’s Justice Crew, illusionist Cosentino and British opera singer Paul Potts.