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America’s Got Talent season 19 has seen various talented individuals take center stage from auditions to the quarterfinals so far. One such individual is BBoy Samuka AKA Samuel Henrique.
The dancer from Brazil made his first appearance on episode 3 of the audition round and revealed that at the age of 13, he was diagnosed with cancer in his right leg and ultimately the medical professionals had to amputate the leg. This setback led Samuka to his passion for dance and helped him to overcome his seemingly physical limitations.
Before auditioning for America’s Got Talent, Samuka joined the breakdance crew ILL-Abilities. The internationally acclaimed dance crew comprises dancers from around the world, each having to work around their unique physical challenges. The group recently competed in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
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Performances of BBoy Samuka in America’s Got Talent season 19 explored
BBoy Samuka performed twice on America’s Got Talent as of writing this article - once in the audition and the second time on the quarterfinal stage.
Samuka was introduced to the cheering audience and judges alike on the June 11 episode as he revealed his noble desires when prompted by Simon Cowell in case he wins the show. He shared that he plans to buy a house for his mother and help other cancer patients.
Samuka received a standing ovation for his performance from all the judges which he started with his braces. He proceeded to kick his brace onto the side and continued dancing to the amazement of everyone in the room. He danced and flipped around with his one leg and arms. The judges and the crowd heaped praises on the Brazilian performer.
The dance routine was built upon James Brown’s Get Up, Get Into It, Get Involved. Heidi acknowledged Samuka's choreography and claimed that “it just kept getting better and wilder”. Simon liked the Brazilian's act and said his audition was “a 12”. He mentioned that his journey would inspire others and people from not only Brazil but all over the world would be proud of him.
Sofia claimed that he's “one of the best acts.” Meanwhile, Howie complimented him for not letting his disability come in the way and also appreciated his song choice which he thought was "mesmerizing." As a result, Samuka was sent forward to the quarterfinal stage.
Samuka's second performance aired on August 20 in the quarterfinal round of America’s Got Talent. The Brazilian explained that the source of his passion came from his desire to prove to the world that he’s “not a disabled dancer,” but just “a dancer.” Samuka completed his dance routine on Beggin by Madcon. He received a second standing ovation in a row from the judges and the live audience.
With the audience cheers ringing loudly in the background, Howie shared his thoughts on the performance. He exclaimed that Samuka's performance was better than what he presented in the auditions and that he “raised the bar” for the dancers in the competition.
Heidi couldn't stop the flurry of praises and asked Samuka about his involvement in the Paris Olympics. Sofia called Samuka "inspirational" and Simon asked the crowd to respond on his behalf which the crowd obliged. He went on to claim that his dance routine was the "best act of the night."
Watch the next episode of America’s Got Talent on Wednesday, August 21 on NBC as the results for the second quarterfinal will be revealed.
