The eighth season finale of “America’s Got Talent” took place at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall on Sept. 18, 2013. Illusionist dancer Kenichi Ebina was named the winner. He gets the grand prize of $1 million and a headlining show in Las Vegas.
Guest entertainers in the season finale included Luke Bryan, Icona Pop, Dierks Bentley, Josh Groban, Il Divo, Heather Headley, Gavin DeGraw, James Lipton and Earth, Wind & Fire. Also there were season’s top six finalists: Ebina, comedian Taylor Williamson, singer Jimmy Rose, magician Collins Key, operatic trio Forte and singer Cami Bradley.
The show’s judges (Howard Stern, Heidi Klum, Mel B and Howie Mandel) and host (Nick Cannon) were among those who walked the red carpet backstage after the show. Here is what Ebina said when I caught up him for a brief interview on the red carpet.
What can people expect from your Las Vegas show?
If it really happens, I’m thinking the show that I did on “America’s Got Talent” but bigger. It’s not art; it’s more entertainment. I think it will fit what I do. I want to take time. I don’t want to rush. On “AGT,” I had to prepare everything in one week.
I want [my Vegas show] to [appeal] to young kids to people who are 80 years old, men and women. I don't want to specific demographics for fans. I want to target everyone. I want to include many factors — illusions, dance, mime — as much as possible.
You have homes in Japan and New York. Will you be moving to Las Vegas for the show?
I don't know if I want to live in Vegas. I want to do the show in Vegas, but I was not expecting to live there. I live in New York too, so I want to do a show in New York, and I want to travel.
Rather than a residential show in Vegas, I'm going to do more traveling. Also, my family, I don't think they want to live in Vegas. My daughter is 7 years old, and we try to be together as much as possible.
For more info: "America's Got Talent" website
