11 acts light up the stage on America’s Got Talent season 20, week 7 — from acrobats to viral singers

America's Got Talent season 20 returned with its seventh week of auditions on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC. The episode included a mix of returning performers, acrobats, singers, and comedians — all hoping to earn their place in the next round.

One of the biggest moments was when American Idol finalist Jessica Sanchez returned to the AGT stage after 20 years and received Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer.

Like always, acts needed at least three “yes” votes from judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and Mel B to move forward.

A Golden Buzzer from a judge or host would send them straight to the next round.

The night included 11 acts, such as a trombone player who danced while playing, an 83-year-old stand-up comic performing on AGT for the first time, a group from China performing ballet-style acrobatics, and a sister group mixing country music with soul.

The acts showed a wide range of talents — from music and comedy to daring performances in the air.

Two acts received Golden Buzzers: Jessica Sanchez and The Boykinz. Both were well-received by the audience and judges.

Here’s a look at the top performances and reactions from episode 7.

Jessica, GRV, and more step back into the spotlight in America's Got Talent

 

 

 

 

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The episode opened with a strong lineup, starting with Jessica Sanchez, who returned to America's Got Talent two decades after appearing in season 1.

Her performance earned her Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer. Simon commented,

“The only people that matter are the people behind us. I think they like you,”

While Howie said,

“You blew the roof off the place.”

GRV, a California-based dance crew, received mixed feedback. Howie pressed his red X and said,

“This needs to be bigger, better, more exciting.”

However, Simon disagreed, calling their energy and dedication exactly what the show is about.

Andy Star brought flair with a singing-while-roller-skating act, though the judges were unconvinced. Simon jokingly asked, “That was Shrek, right?” Trombonist Jonathan Arons returned from Season 3, blending music and dance, which Mel B didn’t find funny:

“You can't dance like that just for a joke.”

Rounding out the first half was Anna Wilson, a 21-year-old singer-songwriter. Simon interrupted her first song, calling it “a bit boring,” but praised her for staying strong and singing a second track.

He said that they were willing to take the challenge and he "really, really," liked them.

Acrobats, comedians, and girl groups take the stage in America's Got Talent

The second half of the night featured six diverse acts in America's Got Talent. Xi’An Acrobatic Troupe from China delivered a ballet-themed performance that left the judges impressed. Sofia said,

“That's one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.”

Simon added that they made "ballet interesting." Circa Marea, an aerial duo from Spain and Argentina, performed a trapeze routine. Sofia told them,

"That was perfection… one of the best aerial acts I’ve seen on AGT."

Meanwhile, Howie called their moves “the most scary, most dangerous” he had seen. The Boykinz, a musical group of sisters from Atlanta, combined country, soul, and pop.

Their act earned Terry Crews’ Golden Buzzer in America's Got Talent.

Simon told The Boykinz that they were going to be stars and described their performance as nearly perfect, while Howie said it felt like the beginning of a brand new career for them.

Comedian Sandra Risser, 83, surprised the panel with her routine.Howie described Sandra Risser’s performance as memorable and said she had a real chance at winning the competition.

Simon admitted he didn’t fully understand all her jokes but believed that every great comedian needed a strong finish.

This episode of America's Got Talent also featured Elastic, a visual comedy act, and Crash Adams, a musical duo from Canada.

Mel B found their song very catchy, while Howie complimented their presence and called it a hit-worthy performance.

Stay tuned for more updates.