[imagesource: Trae Patton / NBC]
We were holding thumbs for quick-change artist Léa Kyle to win this year’s America’s Got Talent finale, but alas, she came in fifth place.
That’s still an impressive achievement and she will definitely be reaping many of the benefits that come with the added exposure of starring in the smash hit show.
During Wednesday’s live, two-hour season finale, following “the closest vote ever,” host Terry Crews revealed the season 16 winner.
A massive congratulations to magician Dustin Tavella:
That smile says it all!
A BIG congrats to our new #AGT winner, @dustintavella! pic.twitter.com/8r2JJEAv2P
— America’s Got Talent (@AGT) September 16, 2021
Tavella is the third magician to take the crown, following season nine winner Mat Franco and season 13 winner Shin Lim, per USA Today:
The 35-year-old captured America’s heart with his signature style of magic that centered his two adoptive sons: “Before ‘AGT,’ I just never could’ve imagined my two worlds colliding – My passion for my magic and my story about my family.”
The announcement left Tavella in tears as confetti cascaded around him:
Beating nine other finalists, including five Golden Buzzer winners, Tavella gets to go home with a $1 million prize plus headliner status for an AGT show in Las Vegas.
Simon Cowell said that it was the “most competitive final ever” with aerialist Aidan Bryant finishing in second place.
Comedian Josh Blue came third, singer Brooke Simpson fourth, and Kyle in at fifth.
Check out Tavella’s inspiring performance that won the heart of millions:
He also performed with season nine winner and magician Mat Franco:
Tavella is a Montgomery County native who grew up going to magic shows in Atlantic City with his grandparents, per Philly Voice.
Besides performing magic, he also works with organisations that help homeless people and women in crisis.
His magic shows usually include his passion for philanthropy, while also invoking stories from his personal life, including his childhood, parents, wedding day, and the adoption of his two sons.
[sources:usatoday&phillyvoice]
