"America's Got Talent" has crowned a brand-new champion! A visibly pregnant Jessica Sanchez emerged victorious in Season 20 of NBC's beloved reality competition series. The Southern California native's triumph, which included the coveted $1 million prize, was officially announced during the exhilarating finale on September 24. "I'm truly overwhelmed with emotions right now," Jessica declared onstage, her voice trembling as she accepted her well-deserved prize. "This is absolutely incredible. Thank you so much, America!"
After weeks of intense competition, the hopefuls of Season 20 were whittled down to the final 10, a diverse and talented group that included rapper Mama Duke, aerialists Sirca Marea, rapper Micah Palace, the dazzling light-up dance group LightWire, musician Steve Ray Ladson, dance ensemble Team Recycled, singer Jourdan Blue, the Leo High School Choir, and improv rapper Chris Turner. Each of these 10 acts delivered their final, awe-inspiring performances on September 23, marking their last opportunity to captivate fans and secure crucial viewer votes.
But in the end, it was Sanchez's extraordinary vocal prowess that proved to be unbeatable. One notable face who didn't make it to the AGT 20 finals? Vanderpump Rules alum Tom Sandoval, who made quite a splash earlier in the season with his band, Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras. The Bravolebrity garnered some glowing reviews following his group's initial audition in June. "You made me smile," Mel B gushed after their lively rendition of A-ha's '80s classic, "Take on Me." "You gave me such happy vibes. And aside from that song being one of my all-time favorites, you all looked like you were having the absolute time of your lives up there."
However, when it came time for Sandoval's semifinals audition, the band failed to leave a lasting impression with their take on The Weeknd's "Blinding Lights" and were ultimately sent packing. "I like Tom, and I like the band," Simon Cowell remarked during the August 21 episode. "But when you're judging a performance, it's got to sound great. And I'm afraid, from where I was sitting, it just didn't. It might just be me, but it didn't sound good."
Meanwhile, Sofía Vergara chose to focus on the positive, adding, "I love the band, and I love the song. The sound might not have been amazing, but it was super entertaining!"
