Information about the singer’s death was posted on obituare.com. Although Hetlinger died on May 14, 2023, Reddit users have only now spread the news.
John Hetlinger is dead. The “Got Talent” contestant was 89 years old
“John was an unforgettable character. He always made an impression, whether it was his trademark bald spot or his contagious laugh,” reads the obituary. The “Got Talent” contestant died of heart failure at the age of 89.
John Hetlinger surprised all viewers of the 11th edition of America’s Got Talent. During the casting, the participant was 82 years old, but his energy and charisma could be envied by much younger performers. The artist retired 15 years before appearing on the show, he decided it was a good time to make his dreams come true.
From “Mam Talent” to metal festivals. Hetlinger made his retirement dreams come true
The former navy pilot spent his free time during karaoke nights. However, he wanted more people to hear his interpretations of famous songs. At the casting in the American “Mam Talent” he performed the song “Bodies” by Drowning Pool, which completely confused those in the studio.
Only Heidi Klum did not like the metal track in Hetlinger’s version. Howie Mandel, Mel B and Simon Cowell, who were on the jury at the time, passed John to the next stage. During the so-called “Judge Cuts” the artist sang “Dragula” by Rob Zombie. Although Simon Cowell gave the performance a standing ovation, Hetlinger did not advance to the quarter-finals.
Participation in “Mam Talent” opened many doors for John to fulfill his dreams. The singer performed “Bodies” with Drowning Pool at the Open Air Festival in Chicago. A day later, he performed with the band at the Ink in the Clink Festival in Ohio.
Source: Gazeta

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