Last night’s America’s Got Talent auditions in Los Angeles featured an incredible performance by Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi Mwanyenyeka, who had the judges and audience in stitches.
Jonasi’s stand-up comedy routine wowed not only Simon Cowell, the show’s creator, Sony Music executive, and X Factor creator, but also judges Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and host Terry Crews.
Simon Cowell noted that Jonasi had just two minutes to make his mark. “I think we’re dying to hear what you do now, we always say two minutes can change everything, so let’s do it,” Cowell remarked.
He took the challenge in stride, relying on his distinct comedic style that has already earned him recognition from the Chimanimani mountains to the international comedy circuit.
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Jonasi’s charisma was palpable from the moment he took the stage. He used his 120-second routine, which was packed with humor, cultural insights, and sharp wit, to captivate both the judges and the audience. The laughter was nonstop as he shared funny stories from back home and his experience when he first arrived in the United States, with Cowell himself chuckling heartily—a rare sight for the often-critical judge.
The judges and the entire audience gave him a standing ovation when he finished his performance.
Mandel who is also a comedian and television actor had this to say, “We are so glad you are here, we appreciate you. Let me just say something, stand-up comedy is hard enough as it but to come from another country where English isn’t your first language and not only communicate with everybody but tickle everybody and make this a better place, you are truly amazing.”
Heidi Klum added by saying, “You’re funny, you look great, I love your spirit, your accent, all of it.”
“This is the most fun time we’ve had today”, commented Sofia Vergara.
Cowell wrapped it up by this comment, “I actually think you’re one of the funniest people we’ve ever had over the years, if you’ve got it, you’ve got it. I was laughing so much. You were having the best time as well. Unfortunately you’re stuck with us you’re not going anywhere”
The night’s high point was when Terry Crews hurried from backstage to the judges’ desk, inspired by Jonasi’s incredible performance, and yelled “Learnmore! You were backstage, you were telling me that you were taking 14 hour bus trips to go perform for five minutes and having to take 14 hour bus trips back home, brother, you will never have to go back home again because you are here with us!” with that he pressed the coveted Golden Buzzer.
Learnmore was touched with emotion as the gold confetti showered above him, Crews rushed back on stage and hugged him.
Jonasi’s success on America’s Got Talent is a testament to his hard work and unique comedic voice. Having started his career in Zimbabwe, Jonasi has worked tirelessly to hone his craft, performing in various venues in the African region, in the USA and virtually gaining a loyal following. His journey to the AGT stage marks a significant milestone in his career, bringing his talent to a global platform.
Only time will tell if Jonasi will clinch the grand prize, but for now, his Golden Buzzer moment has marked a promising beginning to what could be an extraordinary journey.
Being awarded the Golden Buzzer on AGT is a noteworthy accomplishment for Jonasi, as it certifies him as one of the select few competitors to have received this recognition. Not only does this acknowledgement get him closer to the live concerts, but it also greatly increases his visibility and competitive opportunities. Now, Jonasi will be a part of the live shows, which are renowned for their high stakes and fierce competition. He now can spread his humor to a wider audience.
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