Aussie star Sheldon Riley wows judges on America's Got Talent: 'Blown away'

After competing in the grand final of the Eurovision Song Contest in Italy and conquering a string of TV talent shows in Australia, Sheldon Riley is continuing his world domination with an appearance on America’s Got Talent.

The 24-year-old Australian singer is currently starring on the reality show’s spinoff series America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League, which gives former finalists and fan favourites from the franchise another chance to win while being mentored by one of the judges.

The TV veteran, who has previously competed on The X Factor Australia in 2016, The Voice Australia in 2018 and 2019, AGT in 2020 and The Masked Singer Australia in 2022, returned to the competition on Monday night as one of Mel B’s chosen contestants.

He received a standing ovation from all four judges for his performance of the 2023 Eurovision-winning song, ‘Tattoo’ by Loreen, and was praised for his removing his elaborate mask during the song’s climax.

“You look gorgeous,” said Heidi Klum. “You did a very beautiful rendition of that song. You nailed it, you belted it out, I loved it. Well done.”

“I am blown away, I gotta tell you,” Howie Mandel added. “Not only did you step it up from anything you’d ever done on AGT before, but I think you did something wonderful for the world. You really did.”

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Simon Cowell also shared that he was thrilled to have Sheldon back in the competition because he believes he has “unfinished business”.

“Your voice is so distinct and you’re a proper, what I would call, frontman singer,” he said. “So congratulations and welcome back.”

Sheldon Riley opens up about his return to reality TV

Speaking about his decision to compete on America's Got Talent for a second time, Sheldon tells Yahoo Lifestyle he was “definitely intrigued and honoured” to be asked back.

“At the end of the day, they are inviting back the best of the best including previous AGT winners, so it’s nothing but an honour that Simon and his team see me in that league,” he shares.

“I said yes ultimately because I’m confident in my abilities now, I wanted to bring my heart to this competition, I wanted to bring some Eurovision magic and show a side to Sheldon Riley the performer and creative that I have kept concealed so far.

“I’ve matured a lot a lot since my original AGT season. I have a much stronger sense of self and with that, I feel a sense of freedom in the way I express my creativity both sonically and visually.”

Sheldon adds that it was a joy reuniting with Mel B after she appeared on the judging panel for his season of The Masked Singer.

“I loved seeing Mel again,” he gushes. “In the time I’ve known her over the last few years, she’s been such an incredible energy to be around and just so real. We vibe really well so the creativity was flowing.”

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