AGT 2010: The Judges Picks for a Second Chance

Tonight was supposed to be about acts that didn't make it to the semi finals the first time on America's Got Talent 2010 battling for their last chance. Instead it was more of a battle of the AGT judges. As Howie Mandel, Sharon Osbourne and Piers "Buzzer Happy" Morgan warred over who could buzz who's act faster. It was a bit unfair for the contestants, but it wouldn't much matter in the end.

As usual the acts that stood out tonight on AGT were far and away better than the others. Tomorrow night should only prove surprising in the judges' choice.

The three acts that I think should get through on America's votes alone are: Michael Grasso, Anna & Patryk, and aerial dancers Michael Lipari & Ashleigh Dejon.

Magician Michael Grasso showed promise until he brought slight of hand card tricks to the Vegas AGT auditions. Tonight he brought back the big trick and did a great job. I enjoy a magician that invites the camera to circle the full stage during the act. Makes it much more believable. Michael Grasso impressed the judges as well; one of only a few who did not even get a grudge buzz.

Anna & Patryk nearly made it to the semi finals a couple of weeks ago, but the judges chose otherwise. I like dancing, even ballroom, but I just can't get into little kids doing serious ballroom. It's just a little creepy to me, and apparently to Howie Mandel as well. He voiced his opinion to the chagrin of Piers Morgan (who had opted to buzz every single act the other judges put forth for tonight).

Michael Lipari & Ashleigh Dejon had a near miss in their Vegas audition. It was obvious when it happened. Tonight they took advantage of the doubt in the minds of America. Performing an act that included what appeared to be an accidental fall to a pit behind a prop on the stage. The judges and audience sat stunned to a heart beat of music... finally Michael lifted his mate from the darkness in a sensual pose and the act was over. For those few seconds, they had us all holding our breath. Piers called it a magic act tonight, and it was magic.

I think the judges' choice for tomorrow night will be a real toss up. Many of the acts brought back tonight on AGT failed to equal their previous showings. Circus performer and danger act, Rudi Macaggi, really disappointed me. He was told his last act was too scary, so he took it down a notch. It fell several notches short I'm afraid.

The dance groups had a rough night. Both of my favorites, RNG and Hot Shot Tap Dancers, went down in mediocrity. The Bollywood act, Kruti Dance Academy, kicked off AGT tonight, but with more of a fizz than a bang. They too will likely fall to the curse of the first spot.

Young rapper CJ Dippa had a tough night too. Called back to America's Got Talent by Howie Mandel, he chose to go commercial tonight. I think Piers Morgan got it right when he told the young rapper to be himself. At the end of the performance CJ Dippa admitted, near tears, that he didn't feel he had done his best. I was surprised he had the humility to say it. I gained respect for him even if he doesn't get through to the AGT semi finals.

Tomorrow night's judges' choice may come down to Harmonica Pierre and Doogie Horner. Doogie came back stronger this week, but I still don't think he is anywhere near funny enough to be on a Vegas stage. Harmonica Pierre is a talent, but even Piers Morgan admitted to bringing him back for being a great character.

Whatever the outcome, I think all of the AGT 2010 contestants are now competing against Jackie Evancho. The YouTube sensation that showed us a tiny glimpse of what is to come is clearly the natural talent leader this season. It will be fun to see the competition really get started.

The AGT results show is tomorrow night at 9/8cst on NBC. You can read full judges comments on tonight's live performances on my blog: TV Review.