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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Filipino fisherman Roland Abante receives standing ovation from America's Got Talent judges

Filipino fisherman Roland Abante receives standing ovation from America's Got Talent judges

Published Jun 14, 2023 12:40 pm

Filipino fisherman Roland Abante belts out 'When A Man Loves A Woman' during an audition for 'America's Got Talent' Tuesday night. (YouTube)


America's Got Talent judges Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara have only nice words for Filipino fisherman Roland Abante during the audition for Season 18 Episode 1 of the popular American reality show Tuesday night (Wednesday morning, Manila time). Abante gave a stirring rendition of the Percy Sledge original "When A Man Loves A Man" and the crowd went wild. At the end of his performance, Simon, Heidi, Howie, and Sofia gave a standing ovation for Roland.

'AGT' contestant Roland Abante (left) and an interpreter


"I don't think you could have done it better. Nice job. On the stage, you are amazing. You must be proud of yourself," Heidi comments. "I have a feeling you will stop fishing. This is where you needed to be," said Sofia. Simon added: "I really like you." "I think everybody just heard a life-changing moment," says Howie. Prior to his performance, Roland told "AGT" host Terry Crews that he practiced in the neighborhood with a karaoke.

'AGT' judges cheer for Roland


"I'm a fisherman and in the afternoon, I drive a motorbike to deliver goods," Roland told Simon through an interpreter when asked about his day job. Asked why he auditioned for "AGT," Roland got emotional and told Heidi: "This is my big dream...to be here." Heidi also gave him a big hug before he performed. Then the four judges gave Roland four "yes" votes which paved the way to advance him in the show.

A standing ovation for Roland


Following his successful audition, Roland uploaded a video and thanked all those who supported him in his journey to "America's Got Talent." As of 8:48 p.m. June 14, the video clip of his performance has been viewed nine million times. Click to watch the full video: [https://fb.watch/l9qYDDmkho/](https://fb.watch/l9qYDDmkho/)
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