An off-the-cuff joke made by America’s Got Talent judge Howie Mandel reportedly did not make it to air during this week’s broadcast of the popular NBC talent competition.
According to a report from The U.S. Sun, Mandel made a risqué comment directed at fellow judge Sofia Vergara during an unusual audition by the Osaka Philharmonic, a harmonica-playing group from Japan. The performance, which featured shirtless musicians incorporating frozen dry ice sticks applied to their chests to create sound, also involved judge Simon Cowell joining the group on stage.
Sources told The U.S. Sun that during the act, Mandel suggested Vergara should be “next,” implying she should participate in the same manner—prompting audible gasps from those seated nearby. One witness reportedly described the remark as “gross,” though added that Mandel appeared to be joking.
Vergara was said to be surprised by the comment but did not appear to take offense, according to the report.
The performance was included in an extended audition montage that aired during the episode, but Mandel’s comment was removed from the final broadcast.
Despite the provocative nature of the act, the Osaka Philharmonic received positive reactions from the judges. All four panelists—including Mel B, who initially buzzed the group—ultimately voted to send the ensemble through to the next round.
“I’m gonna take my X back,” said the former Spice Girls member, adding, “When you move forward, incorporate Simon again, because if Simon’s involved, definitely yes from me.”
Cowell, who participated in the act and had dry ice applied to his own chest, gave the final yes. “I want you to freeze my nipples again,” he said, jokingly. “Four yeses… I’m actually losing my mind.”
NBC and representatives for Mandel have not commented publicly on the reported incident.
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