A look into ‘America’s Got Talent’ ratings, Simon Cowell, and its first week on air

The much anticipated premiere of America’s Got Talent aired on Tuesday night. After the final season of American Idol and Britain’s Got Talent attracted relatively poor ratings, Simon Cowell moved onto a venture still profitable and is now a judge on the popular talent show.

The auditions started with a variety of acts the judges liked and passed to the next round, including a dancing dog, four hardcore men that sang Somewhere Over the Rainbow, and a less-than-stellar act — Ryan Stock — who was a comedy daredevil, so-to-speak.

Much like 2010s’ Jackie Evancho, Laura Bretan talked about singing with her mother and learning from her. Bretan appeared nervous following harsh criticism about other singers, but after a brief pause, the 13-year-old belted out Nessun Dorma, leaving the audience rooting for the young contestant.

Cowell complimented her talent and overall style as the crowd applauded. “I have never heard anything like that in all the years I’ve been doing this show.” Bretan went on to receive the Golden Buzzer, which keeps her safe from elimination for many episodes to come.

To many, Cowell is one of few people that could replace Howard Stern’s unique sense of brutal honesty. However, some fans on social media are divided about his hosting duties, albeit the ratings evidently have the final word. The series premiered with a modest 9.82 million viewers, similarly to 2015’s numbers and proving a successful night for NBC.