Who said that talent shows are predictable? After the likes of Paul Potts and Susan Boyle, we should know not to make assumptions based on appearance – and in 82-year-old John Hetlinger’s case, we would be right not to.
Simon Cowell was left stunned when the retired aero space engineer hit the stage as one of the hopefuls for America’s Got Talent.
Addressing the panel of judges, which included Mel B, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel, Hetlinger revealed that he had been retired for 15 years – which is when he started to rock out at karaoke.
Simon Cowell couldn’t help himself – NBC
82-year-old John Hetlinger on America’s Got Talent – NBC
He shocked the audience and judges alike when he smashed through heavy metal band Deadpool’s Bodies on stage.
Simon’s mouth was wide open in disbelief, while Mel B was reeling in shock as Hetlinger literally rocked out on stage.
Hetlinger called it a highlight of his career – NBC
The 82-year-old had the audience up on their feet – NBC
After the show aired on Tuesday night in the US, the heavy metal band have now congratulated Hetlinger on his rendition of their track on their Facebook page.
They captioned the video of his performance with ‘Bad Ass’, and even offered him a guest appearance at their upcoming show.
NBC
“Shout out to the 82 year old dude that sang ‘Bodies’ on America’s Got Talent. You are welcome to join us on stage anytime!!!” the band wrote.
While TMZ have reported that the band are now trying to get the retired hopeful to join them for the Open Air Festival in July.
Source: mirror.co.uk
Author: Claire Rutter
Photo credits: mirror.co.uk / NBC
Video source: America’s Got Talent