The final two acts—Chris Turner and Jessica Sanchez—brought the crowd to their feet. Turner, a British-born comedian turned freestyle rap sensation, electrified the stage with a lightning-fast rap for a real-life couple, weaving their love story into razor-sharp rhymes. Turner had gone viral with freestyle videos, performed with Cirque Du Soleil, and even bested ChatGPT in a Man vs. Machine rap battle. When asked what winning would mean, he said, “It would mean that all the sacrifices my family made, all the support they gave me, has brought me here.”
Jessica Sanchez returned nearly two decades after her first AGT appearance as a 10-year-old. Now 30 and pregnant with her first daughter, Sanchez delivered a breathtaking performance of JVKE’s Golden Hour alongside aerialist Sirca Marea, combining powerful vocals with stunning visuals. Her journey included being runner-up on American Idol Season 11, international chart success, and multiple hit singles and albums.
As the votes were revealed, the audience held its breath. Terry Crews announced, “Jessica Sanchez!” Overwhelmed, she said through tears, “I’m sorry. I’m really emotional. This is amazing. Thank you so much, America.” Confetti rained down as she was crowned Season 20 champion, completing a 20-year journey that began as a child performer.
Social media erupted with controversy. Many fans claimed Turner had been robbed, suggesting Sanchez’s prior fame and pregnancy influenced votes. Comments ranged from, “Chris Turner should have won!” to, “Show is rigged… her being pregnant boosted votes.” Despite the backlash, others praised Sanchez for her triumphant return.
For Sanchez, the win was a career-defining moment, closing a full-circle journey from child star to AGT champion. Crews ended the show with a message of hope: “It could be you up here winning this time next year… Good night, America.” Season 20 reminded viewers why AGT continues to blend glory, heartbreak, and controversy in every unforgettable finale.
