During appearance on live heat

TapeFace appeared on the first live heat of America's Got Talent last night.

The British-based, New Zealand mime performed a couple of his more low-key routines at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. First he invited judge Heidi Klum on to the stage, where it eventually became clear that she was expected to mime out the pottery scene from Ghost.

Then he beckoned host Nick Cannon out from the wings, for a gag involving two pairs of sunglasses.

His routine divided judges. Simon Cowell said 'a star is born', adding: 'I had no idea what that meant. I think you're like Mr Bean that you're gonna end up in movies and TV shows.'

And Howie Mandel said: 'It's interesting. You make something out of nothing. There's nothing and I saw something.'

However, Mel B felt let down by the choice of sketches, saying: 'The first time round I thought you were on the money, but this time I was a little bit disappointed.'

And Klum also suggested this was not as strong as earlier appearances, saying 'my most favourite act was the first time we saw you on stage.'

The fate of TapeFace, also known as The Boy With Tape On His Face or his real name Sam Wills, is now in the hands of American viewers, with online and phone polls now open. Voting is blocked outside of the United States.

Seven of the 12 acts who performed on the heat make it through to the next stage. Dance act Outlawz are already out, having been buzzed off by Cowell during the programme.

TapeFace's original audition on the NBC show currently has more than 36.5million views on YouTube, while the TV broadcast regularly attracts more than 11 million viewers.

Last year's winner, British ventriloquist Paul Zerdin, also made a guest appearance on last night's show.

Further live shows take place next week and on August 23-24.

TapeFace will tour the UK this autumn.