America’s Got Talent season 19 is officially underway, and in a shocking twist of events, we already have a few contestants leading the eventual group of finalists!

‘AGT’ Fans Will Be Surprised to Learn About This Golden Buzzer Twist for Season 19

During the premiere episode on May 28, viewers watched judges Simon Cowell, Sofía Vergara, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel figure out who was worthy of making it to the next round of competition. While it’s standard to send some people auditioning through to the next stage, some stood out from the pack.

Indiana janitor Richard Goodall made an impression on the judges when he sang a moving rendition of “Don’t Stop Believin’,” while Zimbabwe comedian Learnmore Jonasi‘s stand-up routine left host Terry Crews in total stitches. As a result, Heidi and Terry made moves by awarding Richard and Learnmore each one of the show’s Golden Buzzers, with the two moving straight on to the live shows.

“Hold up, hold up, hold up!” Terry told Learnmore as the judges gave him incredible feedback on his routine. “Learnmore, you were backstage and you were telling me that you were taking 14-hour bus trips to go perform for five minutes, and then having to take 14-hour bus trips back home. Brother, you will never have to go back home again because you are here with us!”

With Richard, Learnmore and a few others already earning spots in the live shows, this may lead America’s Got Talent fans to wonder about the Golden Buzzer. What exactly is the Golden Buzzer, and what benefits does it give to those who receive one during the auditions? We have answers for you, because the Golden Buzzer comes with some pretty cool perks.

What is the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent?

According to NBC Insider, the Golden Buzzer was introduced on America’s Got Talent back in season 10. The purpose of the Golden Buzzer was that when one of the judges (or the host) was extremely impressed by a competitor’s talent, this allowed the contestant to immediately move on the live shows.

What’s more, the outlet noted there are some significant caveats to receiving a Golden Buzzer. While it’s more common for a judge to give one out when the talent is so immense, contestants who receive one can make it to the live shows even if other judges hit the red buzzer during the audition. This is a huge advantage, especially if the vote to move someone forward isn’t unanimous.

If that wasn’t enough, AGT decided to change the Golden Buzzer rules for season 19. While Terry still has just one Golden Buzzer, Simon, Sofía, Heidi and Howie each began the new season with two Golden Buzzers in their arsenal. This means more talent can move straight through the competition, leading to additional twists in store for the auditions.

Who got the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent in 2024?

As of right now, these are the acts that received an AGT Golden Buzzer for season 19, listed under the judge (or host) who moved them forward to the live shows later this year.

Heidi Klum

Richard Goodall majorly impressed Heidi when he came out to sing “Don’t Stop Believin’,” which moved the crowd watching him. Despite needing courage from the audience to sing, when it came time for her feedback, she raved how he swept her off her feet and she really enjoyed watching his performance.

NBC Universal

Terry Crews

Learnmore Jonasi‘s comedy routine left the entire room in stitches, especially after he told his heartwarming journey to getting to the place he was at. Terry in particular was ecstatic about the show Learnmore put on, rushing out from backstage to give him a Golden Buzzer.

NBC Universal

Simon Cowell

Liv Warfield caught the attention of the judges and audience on the June 4 episode, performing an original song, titled “Stare.” Simon was so moved by how easily she connected with the crowd that he surprised her with a Golden Buzzer.

America’s Got Talent/YouTube
Additionally, Sky Elements shocked everyone (including the judges) when they delivered an epic drone act outdoors! Ushering everyone outside, the amount of colors and illustrations displayed left everyone stunned in disbelief. With an image of Simon being lit up in the sky, it makes sense that he chose to use his second Golden Buzzer and move Sky Elements forward to the live shows.

Have any America’s Got Talent winners received a Golden Buzzer?

It might come as a surprise to some AGT fans, but it turns out six winners from recent seasons actually received a Golden Buzzer ahead of time!

Back in season 10, ventriloquist Paul Zerdin became the first contestant to receive a Golden Buzzer, and he later went on to win the entire installment. Grace VanderWaal (season 11), Darcy Lynne Farmer (season 12), Kodi Lee (season 14), Brandon Leake (season 15) and the Mayyas (season 17) also received Golden Buzzers and went on to claim victories in their respective seasons.