In Week 5 of America’s Got Talent Season 17 auditions, Merissa Beddows stepped onto the stage and delivered one of the most memorable performances of the season. A classically trained opera singer and student at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music, Beddows captivated both the judges and the audience with her remarkable vocal range and uncanny impressions of iconic singers.
With a spinning “impression wheel” beside her, Beddows added an entertaining twist to her act: each segment of her medley was chosen at random by a spin of the wheel. As it spun, she seamlessly transformed her voice to mimic a dazzling lineup of stars, including:
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Ariana Grande, with her signature whistle tones and pop flair
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Celine Dion, showcasing dramatic vibrato and vocal power
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Snow White, with a whimsical and high-pitched Disney timbre
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Stevie Nicks, capturing the raspy and haunting tone of Fleetwood Mac
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Liza Minnelli, full of Broadway energy and flair
Her versatility drew laughter, applause, and awe. Judge Sofia Vergara said she was “blown away” by the performance, while Simon Cowell called her act “clever, unique, and incredibly talented.” All four judges gave her a resounding “yes,” sending her through to the next round.
Beyond her comedic charm and charisma, what stood out most was Beddows’ vocal control and musical intelligence. Switching between such different vocal styles — and doing it live — is no small feat, yet she handled it with grace and flair.
Although Merissa didn’t ultimately win the competition, her audition remains a fan favorite and has garnered millions of views on YouTube. It’s a perfect example of how America’s Got Talent can shine a spotlight on both talent and originality.
