Chase Varnes had a rough start on Tuesday night’s episode of America’s Got Talent, but the 13-year-old singer from Vancouver Island ended up delivering one of the most memorable performances of the season so far — thanks to a little help from Ed Sheeran.
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Varnes began his audition with an original song on acoustic guitar, but was quickly interrupted by judge Simon Cowell. “I hate to do this,” Cowell said. “I didn’t love the song; however, I like you. Have you got another song?”
Without missing a beat, Varnes launched into a cover of Ed Sheeran’s “Life Goes On,” originally featuring Luke Combs, and instantly won over the crowd and most of the judges.
“You know, you remind me of a young Justin Bieber,” said Howie Mandel, referencing Varnes’ Canadian roots and early busking background. The compliment made the teen visibly light up on stage.
Sofía Vergara also applauded the performance, saying, “I know it’s nerve-racking to be on this stage, but I thought it was better the second song. Simon always knows how to stop it and make it better. I think the girls are gonna go crazy for you.”
Mel B, however, had a more measured response. “You were great. You were a diamond in the rough with so much potential,” she said. “But I can see your nervousness. You’re not quite there yet for me.”
While Mel B gave him a “no,” both Mandel and Vergara offered their yeses. That left Cowell to cast the deciding vote.
“Sometimes we have on people your age, and I’m like, ‘Okay, I’ll be sort of nicer because you’re young,’” Cowell said. “You, I actually do believe, that you have something… You’ve got everything going for you. The audience loved you, which is why you’re gonna get three yeses.”
Varnes’ cover of “Life Goes On” was a breakout moment on the night’s episode, trending online alongside a series of cat-themed novelty acts — including a rapper named Moshow and a group called Loco Pop Familia, who performed dressed entirely as cats.
America’s Got Talent airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.
