"America's Got Talent" judge Howie Mandel reveals his lightning-fast reflexes and keen awareness during a playful feud with fellow judge Simon Cowell over the coveted Golden Buzzer, with Heidi Klum adding her humorous perspective.
Amidst the high-stakes competition on "America's Got Talent," a lighthearted battle ensued between judges Howie Mandel and Simon Cowell over the Golden Buzzer, a crucial tool that sends an act directly to the live shows.
"I was waiting for them to come to me. I was waiting for my turn. Waiting for my turn is the key word," Mandel explained to Fox News Digital on the "America's Got Talent" red carpet.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
The incident occurred when Mandel, who had the only Golden Buzzer for that night, was poised to send the Japanese acrobatic act AIRFOOTWORKS to the live shows. However, Cowell, known for his mischievous nature, made a playful attempt to steal the moment by reaching over and hitting Mandel's Golden Buzzer.
"He took my turn. Tried to take my turn. But I'm too quick. I'm very nimble... I'm aware of what's going on and I listen. So, I saved my moment for me," Mandel said with a twinkle in his eye.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
As the two judges rushed on stage after the mesmerizing hip-hop performance, host Terry Crews intervened to settle the Golden Buzzer dispute.
"OK, I've got to clear this up. Howie got there first, this is Howie's Golden Buzzer," Crews announced, emphasizing that Cowell's attempt to take credit was in vain.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
Despite the comical feud, Mandel expressed his admiration for AIRFOOTWORKS' performance, citing their unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and creativity.
"They check every box. They're athletes, they're dancers, they're artists. They're incredibly creative... unique and original," he remarked.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
Heidi Klum, known for her infectious laugh and hilarious quips, added her perspective on the incident, likening it to "talking to kids."
"He [Simon Cowell] is very smart. That's Simon Cowell. He's like, 'Let me go push that Golden Buzzer'... he just does crazy things. He does things he's not allowed to do, and we love him for it... he is the boss, and so we let him," Klum told Fox News Digital.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
"The thing is, these boys, they just never behave. It's funny... at the end of the day, the most important thing is the act got through to the live show," she added with a wry smile.
The Golden Buzzer moment not only highlighted Mandel's quick reflexes but also demonstrated the camaraderie among the judging panel. Despite the occasional rivalry and banter, they share a common goal: to unearth and showcase extraordinary talent.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
AIRFOOTWORKS, founded by Japanese choreographer Takashi Jonishi, expressed their gratitude for receiving the Golden Buzzer from Mandel.
"That was the best moment of my life," Jonishi said. "We are all really surprised to hear that two handsome guys tried to hit the Golden Buzzer."
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
"It's a dream come true."
As the competition progresses, the live results will be announced tonight on "America's Got Talent" at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. Central on NBC. The 12 acts who make it past the quarterfinals will move on to the live semifinals, as they compete for 6 spots in the finale. The remaining 6 acts will join the 4 Live Show Golden Buzzers in the finale on Sept. 17.
Howie Mandel Outmaneuvers Simon Cowell in Golden Buzzer Battle on 'AGT'
"America's Got Talent" will crown their new champion of the season on Sept. 24. The popular talent competition airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
