Narrow viewers' vote saves mime act

Tape Face has made the final of America's Got Talent after being saved by a close-fought viewers’ vote. 

The British-based Kiwi comedian, real name Sam Wills, made it to the last ten by fewer than 200 votes.

On Tuesday night’s show he performed a mimed cowboy-style gunfight using balloons and staple guns.

The act sparked a small water fight between judges Mel B and Simon Cowell, after he told Tape Face: ‘I think like Mel, you have the ability to do something stupid and be interesting at the same time.’

Howie Mandel also praised the performance, saying it was funny and adding: ‘You are always intriguing.’

However it was not enough to get to the final on the first attempt. So Tape Face, The Edgar Family Band and opera singer Laura Bretan were subjected to a live Dunkin’ Save viewers’ vote last night – which Wills scraped through.

The final will take place on September 13, with the winner of the $1million prize and Las Vegas headlining slot announced the next night.

However simply making the finals is a major boost to any act’s American career. Piff The Magic Dragon now regularly plays Vegas after making last year’s final, alongside ultimate winner and fellow Brit Paul Zerdin.

Tape Face, also known as The Boy With Tape On His Face, embarks on a British tour next week. Dates

Here is his performance on the semi-final:

Published: 1 Sep 2016