The America’s Got Talent act that left Mel B shaken: Wes P’s comic performance

When novelty comedian Wes-P returned to the stage for the Season 20 America's Got Talent tryouts, he quickly grabbed attention with his audacious theatrics and absurdist humor rather than his song or dance. His routine combined intentional awkwardness with slapstick physical humor, as he set up a complex gag using a tablecloth and teacups draped over his body.

A few seconds later, the audience was fully engaged by Porky-style antics and purposefully embarrassing stunts; not enough to get them a pass to the next round, but enough to elicit significant emotions from the judges.

The most unfiltered comment came from Judge Mel B. As she saw the farce play out, her expression changed from one of amusement to one of discomfort. Even when Howie Mandel and Simon Cowell eventually said "yes," Mel B wasn't having it and pressed her buzzer immediately in shock. Her suspicion and Wes-P's unrepentant performances combined to produce a TV gold moment that demonstrated the erratic dynamics of the AGT judging panel.

The show's enduring formula, risk-taking actions that blur the boundaries between enjoyment and awkwardness, was highlighted by this clash of comic styles, which alternated between being ridiculous and bold. Even though Wes P didn't progress, he made a lasting impression, and Mel B's dramatic response gave the season its most talked-about moment to date.

Wes‑P’s risqué return and judges’ reactions on America's Got Talent (AGT) Season 20

During the fourth audition episode of Season 20 of America's Got Talent, Japanese comedian Wes-P made a surprise return to the stage. Audiences were shocked by his unique performance, which involved balancing teacups while removing tablecloths from his largely naked torso.

Having been rejected in previous seasons and AGT: Fantasy League, his return generated buzz, and his bold performance didn’t disappoint, though it polarized the judges. Amid applause, the panelists were equally fascinated and frustrated by Wes-P's outlandish behavior.

The show-stopper act

Wes-P started his routine with the cloth-and-cups trick, which he had done before. This time, however, he advanced to his iconic tablecloth reveal after trying a blow dryer and ping-pong ball trick that didn't work.

As cups danced atop his body, he removed the sheet to expose teacups covering his privates, an act that tested broadcast standards yet avoided full nudity. The audience's response to his daring performance was varied, with some gasping and others laughing.

Simon Cowell, who had previously snubbed him, said:

"I'm so happy you're back."

Howie Mandel and Cowell praised his inventiveness and boldness despite the spectacle.

Mel B’s strong disapproval

America's Got Talent judge Mel B, on the other hand, responded abruptly, buzzing out the performance right away and leaving in obvious displeasure. When requested to pull the fabric, she even joked on stage, "Wait!" before leaving before the big unveiling. Debate erupted over her gut reaction, which some characterized as a rejection of the performance.

Sofía Vergara and Howie Mandel stood in stark contrast to each other. Sofía offered post-elimination praise, and Howie supported Wes‑P’s boldness. Mel B's disagreement and Cowell's decision to vote yes for Wes-P exposed a split on the panel between taste guardians and shock value aficionados.

Wes-P's performance reignited conversations about novelty acts on America's Got Talent (AGT): Is it a ridiculous show or art that pushes boundaries? His appearance, which sparked debate and left one judge visibly uneasy, was a prime example of the show's delicate balancing act between broadcast standards and edgy entertainment, raising questions about how far performers can, and should go.

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Watch America's Got Talent Season 20 on NBC.

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