'America's Got Talent' ... not really
On a recent Tuesday evening, my wife and I came home from a family event. Out of habit, the television was turned on and the channel was set on NBC-5. When the picture appeared, it was another episode of “America's Got Talent” with celebrity judges Howie Mandel, Sharon Osbourne and Howard Stern and host Nick Cannon. For the most part, we have enjoyed the show as various acts of music, dance, magic, gymnastic feats and more compete from week to week. Pretty much the same fare, until this show.
We were shocked and appalled to see an act by a young man, taking shots to his groin area and by various means of what could be considered torture. There were several methods used in striking him where it hurts. This does not take talent; it is the epitome of stupidity.
Howard Stern got up, applauded and supported this “act” for its originality, and of course all the innuendos and jokes that would come along with it.
As grandparents and parents, we could not believe what was happening on televisions across the country. “We call this talent?” We can only imagine the further exploitation of kids trying this at home and hitting their friends where it most hurts and without a doubt causing serious and permanent injury.
“America's Got Talent” has really sunk to the bottom in our opinion and should make a public apology for letting this act take place. We doubt that will happen. Any credibility Howard Stern may have gained as a “talent judge” this season just got flushed down the proverbial toilet. This act just diminishes the efforts of those who really try their best. NBC should be ashamed.
Gary Lichthardt
Elgin