Tape Face Speaks! The 'AGT: Fantasy League' Mime Breaks His Silence
Tape Face
When mime Tape Face made his first appearance on America’s Got Talent in 2016, judge Simon Cowell called him “clever,” Mel B labeled him “genius” and Howie Mandel called him “brilliant” and predicted that Tape Face’s life was going to change forever—and it has. In this interview, the New Zealand-born comic tells us how.
Tonight will be Tape Face’s third time appearing on AGT. He followed up his initial appearance with a return for AGT: The Champions and tonight, he’s back for a shot at the America's Got Talent: Fantasy League title.
Related: America's Got Talent Finalist Tape Face Breaks His Silence for Parade
Actually, it’s his fourth appearance on the talent competition if you count the fact that Simon listed Tape Face among his 16 most memorable America’s Got Talent and Britain’s Got Talent auditions on a special hourlong episode of the series.
And here is that unforgettable "Endless Love" and "Lady in Red" audition that so impressed Simon for you to watch:
Tape Face, who was born Sam Wills, a New Zealander now living in Las Vegas, has yet to utter a word on the show. So, Parade took the opportunity to chat with him via e-mail.
This is your third appearance on AGT. What keeps you coming back?
Mostly taxis and buses. I find that the use of public transportation is important considering today’s environment.
Will you be doing something totally fresh tonight? Or might we see a redo of an old favorite?
All fresh from me! I’m excited to be presenting a favorite routine of mine with a little touch of a judge's help as well.
Related: Simon Cowell Reveals Which Fellow Judge from AGT: Fantasy League Is On His $#%^ List
How has appearing on AGT changed your life or at least your career?
I now have my own show in Las Vegas at MGM Grand Underground. That’s quite a big thing. We have been entertaining Vegas audiences for seven years now.
How much does pop culture inspire you as you are developing your act?
Pop culture is a huge part of my act with it ranging from music to getting people to recreate iconic film scenes.
You are a Kiwi, but you’re based in Las Vegas. Is that home for you now?
Planet earth is my current home. It’s quite nice.
Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC
Related: AGT Reveals Its New Format: AGT: Fantasy League and the 40 Acts Competing
What is the attraction of Las Vegas?
The fact that we can do shows six nights a week and showcase the absurd.
What does it mean to you that Simon Cowell picked your initial audition as one of his most memorable on an AGT special?
It was sweet. Next, it’ll be dinner and a movie.
When you began performing as a child clown, you spoke. What inspired you to shut up and become a mime?
Far too many people speak when they shouldn’t. More people should try shutting up.
America's Got Talent: Fantasy League rings in the New Year on Jan. 1 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and next day on Peacock.
Next, Heidi Klum Gets Physical with Howie Mandel to Keep One of Her Acts on AGT: Fantasy League
