We love anything that’s family friendly (watching 98,0987 episodes of Bluey can get a bit old) so when AUSTRALIA’S GOT TALENT (AGT) is on it’s a time to get the popcorn on the stove sit back and enjoy. Sunday Funday!
Starting Sunday 28 July expect the unexpected as AGT unleashes a new wave of mind-blowing and original acts which need to be seen-to-be-believed. Get the whole fam together to laugh and cry on the edge of your seats as Australians of all ages and from all walks of life show off their unique talent, as they vie for the $100,000 prize money.
Everything and anything goes on the AGT stage as contestants set out to impress the all-new, all-star judging panel consisting of: Nicole Scherzinger; actor/presenter/entertainer, Shane Jacobson; celebrity chef and clown-at-heart, Manu Feildel; and stage and screen star Lucy Durack.
This fab four bring expertise, energy and fun to the AGT arena as they search for an act like no other, offering either a “yes from me” or buzzing them out of contention.
Getting the party started and guiding contestants backstage to their moment in the spotlight is host, multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter Ricki-Lee
In a series first, Ricki-Lee joins the four judges in each having the one-time-only ability to use the Golden Buzzer on an act they think has that extra special something, fast tracking them through to the Semi-Finals.
Which act will capture the hearts and minds of Australia? There can only be one champion.
The winner of AGT 2019 will join a stellar list of extraordinary talent that the show has produced over the years including:
Opera star Mark Vincent, singer/dancer
Timomatic, R&B sensation
Andrew De Silva, grand illusionist
Cosentino, dance troupe
Justice Crew and singing powerhouse Jack Vidgen
INTRODUCING…..THE HOST & JUDGES!
HOST – RICKI-LEE
We all loved Ricki-Lee when she debuted on Australian Idol at 18, now the ARIA nominated and multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter has sold over a million records and her music has earned well over 25 million streams since Australia fell in love with her in 2004.
This year marks 15 years since Ricki-Lee won the hearts of Aussies all around the country – and to celebrate she is touring nationally this September through December.
How do you feel about being the host of AGT?
I’m so excited to be hosting the show – it’s so much fun! I get a front row seat to watch the best talent Australia has to offer. Also, I know what it feels like to stand side of stage waiting to step out and do a performance that potentially could change your life. I understand the excitement, nerves, self-doubt, fear, worry, dry mouth and everything that’s running through your mind at that moment.
Why do you think the show has been so successful around the world?
It’s feel-good TV. Everybody is looking for something they can sit down and watch at the end of a hard day and just be entertained.
There is no other show like it! Families and people of all ages can sit in the comfort of their lounge rooms and watch these incredible acts that will have you biting your nails, hanging on the edge of your seat, gasping with shock and screaming with excitement.
What do you love about AGT?
I love that there is so much variety. It’s not just confined to singers or dancers – it’s every type of weird and wonderful coming together on
one stage. It’s always surprising too. Just when you thought you’d seen it all, you’ll see something that makes your jaw drop. That’s the beauty of AGT!
JUDGE – SHANE JACOBSON
Shane Jacobson is one of Australia’s most loved actors and presenters. Best known for his work in film, television and theatre, he’s also a song and dance man, author, screen writer, creative director, producer, executive producer, plus an ambassador
for many worthy charities and organisations.
The Aussie blockbuster Kenny brought Shane world-wide recognition, as well as an AFI Award for Best Lead Actor. He has gone on to feature in other popular films including Charlie & Boots, The Bourne Legacy, Oddball, The Dressmaker, The BBQ and Ladies in Black.
Shane’s television career has showcased his broad range as a presenter and actor – from hosting Little Big Shots, The Real Full Monty, Top Gear Australia and The Great Australian Bake Off to roles in Beaconsfield, Jack Irish and more.
On stage, Shane received a Helpmann Award for his role in the 2008 revival of Guys and Dolls. Also an author, Shane has found success penning his best-selling bio The Long Road to Overnight Success and most recently his exploration of his life as a motoring tragic in his second book, Rev Head.
Why do you think the show has been so successful around the world?
The one thing people love in entertainment is variety and AGT has more than its fair share! This show is like a Christmas present. It’s bright, it’s colourful, you have no idea what’s inside or what’s in store, but when you open it up, you’re always happy. And that’s what this show is like. It’s magic!
What can viewers expect to see?
There’s no way they can understand what to expect because there is literally everything you can possibly imagine and more! Are there going to be singers, dancers and comedians? Sure. Are there going to be magicians and contortionists? You bet. Is that all they’re going to see? Nowhere near it. I haven’t hit 30 percent of the types of acts you’re going to see.
What sort of judge will you be?
I’m thrilled and supportive of anyone who gets on stage and bares all in the hope of entertaining people. But unfortunately, we have to whittle the acts down. It’s heartbreaking but I like to think I’m the three F’s my dad said I should be in life and business – firm and fair but friendly.
JUDGE – LUCY DURACK
Originally hailing from Perth, Lucy graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts with a Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre). She has fast become one of Australia’s leading ladies of stage and screen with a list of major roles to her credit, most recently on TV’s The Letdown, Sisters, Get Krackin’ and Doctor Doctor and as Glinda the Good Witch in the original Australian cast of Wicked and Elle Woods in Legally Blonde The Musical for which she won a Helpmann and Sydney Theatre Award.
Lucy was recently announced in the lead role of Princess Fiona in the multi-million dollar musical comedy Shrek The Musical, opening January 2020 in Sydney.
Why do you think the show has been so successful around the world?
It’s so inspiring to watch people who don’t do these things for a living get out and have a go at something that’s just a burning desire inside them. That’s really exciting to watch. You just want everyone to do their best.
How do you feel about being a judge on AGT?
I feel very honoured. It’s quite a big responsibility. There are so many really talented people out there with different talents. I don’t know how we’re going to choose in the end because how do you compare a singer with a magician, circus act or comedian. They’re all so different.
What sort of judge will you be?
Fair and positive. I know what it’s like to stand in front of people and be judged. It’s scary. I want to make people feel as comfortable as possible.
What can viewers expect to see?
So much variety and so many incredibly talented people. It’s an emotional rollercoaster. I’ve cried every single day; we’ve belly laughed and witnessed some of the most ridiculous and scariest things I’ve ever seen. There’s literally something for everyone.
JUDGE – NICOLE SCHERZINGER
Global superstar and entertainer Nicole Scherzinger is a Grammy-nominated triple threat who has accrued #1 singles globally, selling more than 70 million albums either as a solo artist or as the lead singer of one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, The Pussycat Dolls.
Never one to be boxed in, Nicole has shared her gifts on stages beyond the arenas she has sold out. She appeared in the revival of Andrew Lloyd Webbers’ Cats – The Musical on London’s West End, where she went on to receive an Olivier Award nomination for her role. Nicole closed out her 2018 with a two-night performance alongside Andrea Bocelli at his sold-out Madison Square Garden shows, personally invited by him to perform.
As a TV personality, she has been a judge on both the U.K. and U.S. versions of The X Factor, during which she played an influential role in the formation of international successes, such as One Direction and James Arthur. She is also one of the panellists on the hit singing competition The Masked Singer in the U.S.
Outside of entertainment, Nicole is an Ambassador for UNICEF and a Global Ambassador for the Special Olympics.
How do you feel about being a judge on AGT?
I love watching undiscovered talent come into their own and I especially love being able to support them through this challenging process.
It takes a lot of courage to get up on a stage with millions watching and I want to be that voice of encouragement to help these contestants ultimately become the best version of themselves.
Why do you think the show has been so successful around the world?
It’s wonderful to see everyday people come on a stage and show their talent. We have seen so many incredible variations – from singers to magicians and so much more! These contestants can be your next- door neighbour or your school teacher – it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from. This show reminds everyone they too can follow their dreams and honour their gifts – even if they’ve kept them hidden.
What do you love about Australia?
I have been to Australia numerous times, but sadly, I’ve never had enough time to thoroughly explore. Which makes me even more excited to spend more time there.
JUDGE – MANU FEILDEL
At the age of 13, Manu joined an amateur circus school but after a couple of years he decided that the road to becoming a professional clown was not for him. Although he still dreamt of being an entertainer, Manu chose to step into the family business – his father’s restaurant – quickly progressing to a fine dining establishment to finish his apprenticeship. Soon thereafter, Manu packed his knives and headed for London. It was there, working in top French restaurants, that Manu really began to understand and love the path he had chosen. In 1999, Manu flew to Australia and it was in Sydney that his career started to move at a lightning pace — opening Sydney Morning Herald Chef’s Hat winning kitchens across the city, and eventually his own restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne.
Manu’s love of cooking and entertainment soon led to the small screen, with appearances on Ready, Steady, Cook kick-starting his TV career. He is now one of the most popular personalities on Australian television as co-host and judge on Seven’s much-loved cooking competition, My Kitchen Rules.
Manu also won the 11th season of Dancing with the Stars and has showcased his passion for food, travel and people in My France with Manu, Around the World with Manu and Manu’s American Road Trip.
How do you feel about being a judge on AGT?
I’m super excited! I love to meet people with a talent. I trained in a circus school as a kid so I’m a huge fan of good old entertainment. It’s the kind of family show I like to watch myself with my own family. Bring it on!
Why do you think the show has been so successful around the world?
It’s entertaining for people of all ages and backgrounds. It just puts a smile on your face.
What can viewers expect to see?
Expect a great selection of talented people and a great panel of judges. Fun, fun and
a lot of laughs. Sit back and enjoy the ride.
FOUR FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN L.A. UP FOR GRABS
Your family will experience the ultimate star treatment and create unforgettable memories you’ll cherish forever. Bring out your inner kid and connect with your little ones, and be ready to be surprised!
PRIZING:
Return flights to LAX for a family of 4 from your nearest Capital City including transfers
5 night’s accommodation at Sheraton Universal Hotel, located next to the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood and close by to Los Angeles attractions including the Walk of Fame.
A GO Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass to over 35 theme parks and attractions including Universal Studios Hollywood, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Warner Bros Studio Tour and Legoland California!
PLUS $1,000 spending money
HOW TO ENTER:
SMS your BONUS code word (PERFORM), full name, email address and postcode to 1977 1717. Charge $0.55. Ansible Pty Ltd Helpline 1300 851 419.
Then be watching Australia’s Got Talent, coming to 7 on Sunday July 28th, for the code word to double your chance of winning.
@GotTalentAU
@Channel7
@GotTalentAU
@GotTalentAU youtube.com/AustraliasGotTalent
#GotTalentAU
7plus.com.au
