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Northbrook teen falls short in 'America's Got Talent' finale

While she beat out thousands of acts to make it to the final 10 on this season of NBC's "America's Got Talent," Northbrook teenager Laura Bretan did not make it to the final five on Wednesday night's live finale.

Another teen - 12-year-old singer and ukulele player Grace VanderWaal - won the competition, taking home the $1 million prize.

Before being cut Wednesday night, Bretan, a 14-year-old Glenbrook North High School student and opera singer, performed with Italian pop opera group Il Volo. The night before, she wowed the audience with her rendition of "O Mio Babbino Caro," wearing a light-reflecting, Cinderella-like ballgown on a darkened stage. Behind her was an image of birds flying from a giant cage, plus an orchestra.

Bretan's original audition was so impressive, the judges gave her a rare "golden buzzer," which immediately advanced her to the semifinals.

"You were born with such a gift, it's unbelievable," judge Heidi Klum told her.

Bretan, the daughter of Romanian immigrants, won the "Romania's Got Talent" TV show in January.

In an interview with the Daily Herald last week, Bretan said she hopes to tour the world singing after the show.

Northbrook teen could win 'America's Got Talent'

Laura Bretan, 14, of Northbrook, performs during Tuesday night's live finale of NBC's “America's Got Talent.” Photo courtesy of Trae Patton/NBC
“America's Got Talent” host Nick Cannon talks with Northbrook opera singer Laura Bretan, 14, during Tuesday night's finale. Photo courtesy of Trae Patton/NBC
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