‘AGT’ finale: LI’s Sal Valentinetti earns standing ovation
Sal Valentinetti, 21, of Bethpage delivered his biggest performance yet Tuesday night in the final round of “America’s Got Talent” Season 11. His swaggering rendition of the big band classic “Mac the Knife” drew a standing ovation from the Hollywood crowd.
All four judges gushed over Valentinetti’s performance, which was one of 10 in the finals.
Judge Heidi Klum said, “You blew us all away! You are a star . . . I just love you.”
Judge Mel B shouted, “You smashed it, brother! You exuded so much personality and confidence.”
“You make us want to snap our fingers,” added Judge Howie Mandel. “You are the epitome of show business.”
Judge Simon Cowell stated, “We love your winning spirit. This could upset the whole competition.”
Describing how he felt to host Nick Cannon, Valentinetti said, “Win, lose or draw I will remember this night for the rest of my life!”
The winner of the entire season will be revealed Wednesday at 8 p.m. on NBC/4.
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.
