In a gripping moment on the September 3 episode of America’s Got Talent, aerial performers Sebastián and Sonia captured the show’s prestigious Golden Buzzer, despite facing a significant challenge.
The award, presented by Simon Cowell, came after an injury sidelined Sonia, forcing Sebastián to deliver their breathtaking routine solo. The Barcelona-based duo reflected on their emotional journey backstage, sharing their astonishment and pride with PEOPLE.
“It was crazy,” Sebastián said, still in awe. “It’s been incredibly challenging, but it feels worth it now.” Sonia had fractured her elbow during a dress rehearsal, an unfortunate twist that could have derailed their performance. Undeterred, Sebastián took the stage alone, impressing judges Cowell, Heidi Klum, Sofia Vergara, and Howie Mandel with his gravity-defying skills.
Sebastián recounted his solo performance, saying, “I kept breathing and telling myself to stay calm. I needed to do this for us and our group.” Cowell lauded Sebastián’s solo act as “the definition of courage,” a sentiment echoed by the emotional response of the audience. “The audience gave me a lot of power,” Sebastián admitted, “especially when I was feeling weak and nervous. Their support was a huge boost.”
Watching from backstage, Sonia, accompanied by AGT host Terry Crews, described the experience as “amazing” despite her own struggles. “All my soul was on that stage with him,” she said, reflecting on her emotional support. Sebastián echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Sonia’s presence as integral to his performance. “It was a duo performed by a solo,” he noted, adding that Cowell’s Golden Buzzer led to tears of relief and joy.
Cowell, who had not initially planned to award the Golden Buzzer, expressed his surprise at Sebastián’s performance. “I was blown away,” Cowell told PEOPLE. “Seeing him after hearing the story, I thought, ‘That’s how you do it.’ He was incredible.”
The other judges also praised Sebastián’s effort. Klum, 51, remarked that he “did his partner proud,” highlighting the triumph of perseverance and hope. Mandel, 68, noted the inherent danger and beauty of their act, emphasizing the emotional impact of the performance. “He made it as elegant and beautiful as possible,” Mandel said. “There was something emotionally wonderful about it.”
Sebastián and Sonia’s Golden Buzzer moment stands as a testament to their resilience and artistry, marking a memorable highlight in the current season of America’s Got Talent.