But he failed to mention magic ― the central part of his performance.
In an “Early Release” clip posted by “AGT” on Monday, the element of surprise boosted the buoyant German’s illusion act. The 19-year-old made his backup dancers appear out of seemingly nowhere ― to panelist Klum’s song “Chai Tea with Heidi.”
Judge Howie Mandel was confused at first. Simon Cowell flashed a few of his signature smirks during the performance, but ultimately gave it a Simon-esque thumbs-up.
“Fantastically good and fantastically bad at the same time,” he said. “Horrendous, but it kinda worked.”
Find out Holste’s fate right here: