PITTSBURGH — Twelve-year-old Ashley Marina stunned “America’s Got Talent” judges in her emotional auditions, but due to COVID-19, the show had to proceed with judges cuts done a bit different from years past.
This year, being virtual, live rounds could not be completed. Instead the judges had to review more than 100 auditions on a giant outdoor screen -- in “AGT” fashion -- where they decided who would go home.
In previous seasons, this process involved all of the acts performing for a second time before judges made the cuts.
Enter, Ashley.
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The Pittsburgh singer-songwriter’s main audition fell short to other contestants, but she says her short time on the show is something she will hold close.
“The opportunity to make it through that first round and be on at all is all obviously very awesome, just to be on AGT,” Ashley said. “My audition was very emotional, and it was an amazing experience. I just loved it.”
So what is next for the 12-year-old singing sensation?
Expect more original music and her continuing to push toward her dreams. To make things even more exciting, Ashley gave fans a message and exclusive look at her latest song, written about her “America’s Got Talent” journey.
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Ashley is believed to be only the second solo act from the Pittsburgh area to make it onto the “America’s Got Talent” stage in the show’s 15-year history. World-renowned Jackie Evancho was the first a decade ago.
Learn more about Ashley on her official website www.IamAshleyMarina.com and @IamAshleyMarina on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.