Darci Lynne Farmer, a 12-year-old ventriloquist from Oklahoma, auditioned for the 12th season of America’s Got Talent (AGT). She brought her puppet, Petunia—a sassy, singing rabbit—to the stage. Darci stunned the judges and audience alike with her incredible skill, managing to throw her voice while delivering a powerful rendition of “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess—all without moving her lips.

Her performance was so captivating that Mel B, one of the show’s judges, pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending Darci straight through to the live shows. Mel B was visibly moved and impressed by Darci’s performance, calling it “unbelievable” and marveling at how a young girl could master such a difficult talent with such charm. Darci’s Golden Buzzer moment instantly went viral, drawing millions of viewers who became her fans almost overnight.

Throughout the season, Darci continued to wow audiences with new puppets and polished performances, eventually winning the competition and securing her place as one of the most memorable contestants in AGT history.