Angelica Hale’s appearance on America’s Got Talent during season 12, broadcasted in 2017, was a pivotal moment in her career. This renowned show provides a platform for a diverse mix of performers, giving contestants the opportunity to showcase their unique talents to a national audience. From singing and dancing to magic acts and comedy, the competition culminates with a grand prize of $1 million for the winner.
In season 12, Angelica Hale delivered a series of powerful performances that enchanted both the judges and the audience. She advanced to the finals, ultimately finishing as the runner-up behind ventriloquist Darci Lynne. Her participation on the show was significant, establishing her as one of the youngest contestants to reach this level of recognition in America’s Got Talent history.
Angelica Hale’s Journey Before and After America’s Got Talent
Early Life and Health Challenges
Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on July 31, 2007, Angelica Hale faced severe health challenges early on. At just four years old, she contracted bacterial pneumonia, which escalated into septic shock and led to multiple organ failures, causing significant damage to her kidneys and scarring to her right lung.
During this critical period, she was placed on ECMO life support at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where she remained in a medically induced coma for 12 days. After spending a total of 80 days in the hospital, she made a remarkable recovery and was discharged on April 24, 2012.
Her journey took another life-changing turn when she underwent a kidney transplant on September 13, 2013. Her mother, Eva, was her donor, providing Angelica with the means to thrive. Prior to the transplant, Angelica spent a year and a half on dialysis, which prepared her for this significant medical breakthrough.
Musical Beginnings and Rise to Stardom
After her recovery, Angelica Hale discovered a passion for music and started taking vocal lessons. Under the guidance of celebrated vocal coach Tara Simon in Alpharetta, Georgia, Angelica refined her vocal talents. Her hard work paid off when she won a children’s singing competition for ages five to nine.
Victorious, she began participating in various charitable performances, including events for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Angelica’s big break occurred in 2017 when she auditioned for America’s Got Talent. Her powerful rendition of Andra Day’s “Rise Up”secured her a spot in the competition, where she quickly gained popularity. In the Judge Cuts round, guest judge Chris Hardwick awarded her the coveted Golden Buzzer for her breathtaking performance of Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire,”sending her directly to the live shows.
Throughout the live episodes of America’s Got Talent, Angelica consistently wowed the judges and audience alike. She showcased her vocal prowess with songs such as “Clarity”by Zedd and Foxes during the Quarterfinals and “Without You”by David Guetta for the Semifinals. Each performance highlighted her incredible vocal range and emotional depth, helping her secure a place in the finals.
In the Top 10 Finals, Hale performed “Symphony”by Clean Bandit and Zara Larsson. For the grand finale, she shared the stage with Kelly Clarkson, singing “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)”alongside fellow contestant Kechi Okwuchi. Despite her remarkable journey, Angelica ultimately finished as the runner-up, making history as the youngest runner-up in the show’s legacy.
Success After America’s Got Talent
Post her America’s Got Talent journey, Angelica Hale’s career continued to flourish. She became the first child ambassador for the National Kidney Foundation, using her public platform to raise awareness about kidney disease. Additionally, Hale participated in the America’s Got Talent live shows in Las Vegas alongside other finalists, including Darci Lynne, Light Balance, and Preacher Lawson.
She has performed at prestigious events, such as NFL games, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, along with other major sports events, including the 2017 Falcons vs. Cowboys NFL game and a 2018 NHL game. In March 2018, she gained further recognition by appearing on shows like Celebrity Fight Night and Little Big Shots.
Angelica Hale’s Career and Advocacy
Angelica Hale also ventured into songwriting, releasing her debut single “Feel the Magic”in May 2019, accompanied by a music video that provided fans with insight into her artistry.
In addition to her music career, Angelica explored acting. In 2018, she began filming her first movie, “American Reject,”in New Orleans. She also provided the voice for Maya in the animated series “Maya Unstoppable,”which premiered in 2019. Angelica continues to expand her artistic endeavors across both music and acting disciplines.
In recent years, Angelica Hale has made appearances at high-profile events, such as the annual PBS special “A Capitol Fourth”in 2019. Furthermore, in 2023, she took part in the pre-Broadway production of the musical “Boop!”at Chicago’s CIBC Theater, showcasing her versatility and talent.
Additionally, Angelica became a spokesperson for the Sepsis Alliance’s “It’s About TIME”campaign in 2018, leveraging her experience as a sepsis survivor to raise awareness about its signs and the importance of seeking timely medical care.
America’s Got Talent season 12, featuring the incredible journey of Angelica Hale, aired in 2017 and is available for streaming on NBC or Hulu. Don’t miss the season finale of America’s Got Talent season 19 on Tuesday, September 24, at 9 PM ET on NBC, where the winner will be announced. Be sure to catch the one-hour countdown special at 8 PM ET for a recap of all the unforgettable moments from this season!
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