Hats off to Pittsburgh’s own Jackie Evancho, who gave an incredible performance during the America’s Got Talent finals Tuesday night. Her loss of the $1 million prize to Michael Grimm puzzled and shocked many viewers. While Michael Grimm may be a talented singer with a future in Vegas and the music industry, young Jackie clearly gave the superior performance.
Jackie has a rare gift. Her exceptional talent, obvious to everyone who hears her, got her voted on to America’s Got Talent. But it is her hard work and perseverance that will very quickly see her rise to the top of the industry. Watching her Tuesday night, I kept having to remind myself that this young girl with the voice, poise, and self-assurance of a sophisticated young woman was indeed only 10-years-old.
Possible reasons for the loss? The sympathy factor: The show aired a video of Michael with his grandparents. He wanted to win so he could buy them a house. Sure to tug at the hearts of many.
The Language Issue: Perhaps voters preferred to hear an English song they knew and loved rather than the Latin Ava Maria. Most viewers (including me) probably did not understand the words.
Age: Of the two, who was better equipped to perform in Las Vegas and around the country? Cross-country tours and Vegas performances are probably not the best activity for a very bright 10-year-old. Besides, Jackie has plenty of time to go on and achieve great things without the added push winning the award provides.
Regardless, Jackie has carved a niche for herself as an exceptionally talented and very poised young woman with a remarkable career ahead of her. She had my vote. Pittsburgh is proud of her!
- Kamana Mathur
