America’s Got Talent 2025 Semifinals Recap: Top Acts, Surprises, and Standout Performances

The 2025 season of America’s Got Talent continues to heat up as the semifinalists took the stage on September 16, competing for a chance to advance to the Finals. Unlike previous rounds, this stage placed full control in the hands of American voters, with no Golden Buzzers from the judges allowed. Host Terry Crews will reveal the results on September 17, as fans eagerly await to see who moves forward.

The evening featured 11 diverse acts, including five who had previously earned Golden Buzzers: the Birmingham Youth Fellowship Choir (Simon Cowell), Jessica Sanchez (Sofía Vergara), Jourdan Blue (Howie Mandel), Light Wire (Simon Cowell), and Unreal Crew (Howie Mandel). Joining them were six more standout talents: Bay Melnick Virgolino, Chris Turner, Leo High School Choir, Sirca Marea, TT Boys, and Zak Mirz. Notably, AI magician Mastermind withdrew for personal reasons.

The live performances took place at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, offering thrilling moments, emotional artistry, and jaw-dropping talent.

TT Boys – An acrobatic duo from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, wowed the audience with a high-energy routine set to Red Hot Chili Peppers. Their daring stunts, fiery visuals, and a clever flip counter earned strong praise from the judges. Mel B called it “magnificent”, while Simon noted how clever the flip count was in emphasizing their physical skill.

Zak Mirz – A magician from Dallas, Texas, delivered a performance focused on childhood nostalgia, weaving a predictive magic act that culminated in revealing “bubbles” as the preselected memory. Although Sofia preferred his previous act, Howie and Mel praised his interactive style and emotional resonance.

Birmingham Youth Fellowship Choir – This choir from Birmingham, Alabama, delivered a moving rendition of Alicia Keys’ “No One”. With joyful harmonies and spirited choreography, they earned glowing comments from the judges. Howie described it as “pure audible joy,” and Simon praised the song choice and the group’s growing confidence.

Chris Turner – A freestyle rapper from Manchester, England, stole the night with his improvisational brilliance. Using random objects provided by the audience — including items like a teabag, tangerine, shoe, and even a tampon — Turner delivered an intricate and hilarious rap. Judges called it the best act of the night, with Simon promising it would take him to the Finals.

This semifinal round of AGT’s 20th anniversary season delivered on all fronts — creativity, emotion, and bold risks. As the votes are counted, fans can only wait in anticipation to discover which acts will earn their place in the Grand Finale.