He Promised a Show. He Delivered a Debate.
When RL Bell stepped onto the America’s Got Talent stage, he instantly stood out.
At 50 years old, the former bodybuilder and massage therapist from Houston brought confidence, charm, and a bold promise.
He joked with the judges. He talked fitness.
He said his clients even ask him to sing during massages.
From the start, it was clear this was not going to be subtle.
Bell launched into the soul classic “Me and Mrs. Jones” with smooth R&B vocals and heavy showmanship.
His voice was deep and controlled.
His stage presence was impossible to ignore.
Then came the moment that changed everything.
The flexing. The poses. And finally, the shirt came off.
The audience loved it. Some judges laughed and applauded.
Mel B and Heidi Klum enjoyed the energy and called the performance entertaining and magical.
But the mood shifted when the men spoke.
Simon Cowell called it corny, saying the theatrics distracted from real vocal talent.
Howie Mandel joked that Bell looked like a mix of Rick James and Hulk Hogan.
The panel was split. One no. Two yeses.
Then came the deciding moment.
Simon paused. Smiled. And gave Bell the final yes.
Love it or hate it, RL Bell walked off the stage with new fans and a ticket to the next round.
And that is exactly what makes auditions like this unforgettable.
