The finale of "America's Got Talent: All-Stars" was a riveting event that culminated in the crowning of Aidan Bryant as the best of the best by a panel of super-fans. The aerialist, who was the runner-up in Season 16, beat out 10 other finalists from "AGT" or its global franchises to win the sizeable golden trophy.
Bryant expressed his gratitude and disbelief at being named the winner as pyrotechnics illuminated the stage. The judges, led by Simon Cowell, congratulated Bryant and offered consolation to the second-place finisher, saxophonist Avery Dixon, and declared both contestants as winners in their own right.
Bryant's journey on "America's Got Talent" has been remarkable, having lost to magician Dustin Tavella in 2021, he made it clear during his "All-Stars" audition that he intended to come out on top.
His self-taught skills as an aerialist left the judges and the audience speechless during the finals. Cowell praised his performance as one of the most dangerous, brilliant, and well-coordinated acts he had ever seen on the show.
The finale was also packed with mashups and surprise appearances, including performances by "American Idol" alum Adam Lambert and collaborations between the finalists and other artists. Kodi Lee, the Season 14 winner, sang Avicii's "Wake Me Up," while the Detroit Youth Choir teamed up with Weezer for a rendition of the band's hit song "Beverly Hills."
Comedian Mike E. Winfield and show host Terry Crews filmed a sketch, and teen ventriloquist Ana-Maria Mărgean performed with Terry Fator, the man who inspired her to get into ventriloquism.
In the end, it was an incredible end to an incredible season, with Aidan Bryant emerging as the winner and being crowned the best of the best.