Golden Buzzer

The golden buzzer is a concept that was introduced in Season 9 of America's Got Talent. Each judge may only press it once during the season. The buzzer sends the act through regardless of the votes, and used usually at ties.

Season 9
This is when the golden buzzer was first introduced. Howie Mandel used his on Emmanuel and Phillip Hudson, and Howard Stern used his on Dustin's Dojo. It is unknown if Heidi Klum or Mel B used their golden buzzer.

Season 10
In Season 10, the golden buzzer format was changed, contenders who receive the buzzer are now given a free ticket to Radio City Music Hall. Howie Mandel was first shown pressing it for Drew Lynch, a comedian with talking problems, Howard Stern used his for Freckled Sky, a dance duo. Mel B used hers for Sharon Irving, a singer, Heidi Klum gave the buzzer to young Opera singer Arielle Baril. The guest judges for the series were also allowed to use the Golden Buzzer during the Judge's Cut's. Neil Patrick Harris used his for Piff the Magic Dragon and Michael Bublé used his on The CraigLewis Band. Marlon Wayans hit his buzzer for ventriloquist Paul Zerdin. Piers Morgan used his to put through Siro-A, a dance troupe.