Original Air Date:
Monday, May 11, 2009
The World's Got Talent with Simon Cowell:
With the world getting on board with television talent shows and competitions, Oprah welcomed Simon Cowell to introduce some of the planet's most talented new stars.
Britain's Got Talent Susan Boyle:
Susan Boyle became a household name after a clip of her Britain's Got Talent performance made it to YouTube. During the competition, Susan first entered the stage to an audience and judges who thought she would fail before she even opened her mouth - but when she did, she blew them away.
Inside Susan's Scotland Home:
Susan welcomed Oprah's cameras into her home in Scotland where she has gone into hiding since her performance became so popular. Susan has lived in the same house for her entire 48 years and grew up listening to her mother sing while she worked. Using her voice to help her deal with a learning disability throughout her life, Susan stopped singing for a period of time after her mother died 2 years ago. Susan has slowly worked to heal from her mother's death and went on the show to see if she could sing again in front of an audience. Since then, her life has changed dramatically.
Susan Boyle Via Skype:
Susan appeared on the show via Skype and expressed that it has taken a little time to grasp all of the attention and changes, but that the experience has been awesome and that she's enjoying every second. While the media continued to question whether Susan would get a professional makeover or not, she admitted that she did do a little to "tidy herself" like any woman would. Simon shared that he likes that Susan's appeal is all about her voice and isn't overshadowed by her appearance. Britain's Got Talent is still in progress and Susan Boyle definitely has a chance to win it.
Britain's Got Talent - Escala:
The story of another group from a past Britain's Got Talent was also featured, Escala. The female string quartet joined together as back up for another group and decided to form their own act. After 3 years doing weddings and parties, the group changed their look and gave present themselves with a more edgy and sexy look. The group had a stunning performance on the show complete with vibrant blue mini-dresses and smoke. Escala's album is set to be released on June 23, 2009.
China's Jane Zhang:
Another great voice, China's Jane Zhang, began her journey in a competition to become the country's Super Voice Girl. Through she didn't win, she has been named China's best female artist for the last 3 years and has had 15 #1 singles. Jane started out singing to help support her family after her father died and the "Dolphin Princess" is now a star. After Jane's performance, she shared with Oprah that Mariah Carey is who inspired her to be a singer today.
EuroVision and Alex Swings Oscar Sings:
EuroVision is a singing competition held in Europe for the last 50 years - over 3 days 500 million people watch to see who will become the next big European artist. In the past, performers such as Julio Iglesias, Abba, Celine Dion and Riverdance have been big hits at EuroVision. This year, the contest is being held in Moscow and will have performers from 42 different countries.
The entry from Germany this year is Alex Swings Oscar Sings, who performed via satellite from their country. "Miss Kiss Kiss Bang" is available on iTunes and will hopefully win the competition for the group.
Britain's Got Talent - Signature:
A very original act from Britain's Got Talent was next to perform on the show - Signature, a dancing group made up of friends Suleman Mirza and Madhu Singh. The friends call themselves ordinary guys who love to dance and brought together an East meets West performance of Michael Jackson and Bollywood.
Afghan Star Documentary:
A documentary opening July 26, 2009, Afghan Star follows a singing competition that has become the obsession of Afghanistan. In the past 20 years, singing, dancing, and listening to music has all been prohibited in the country. Since the first democratic election was held, the bans have been lifted and even women were free to participate in the competition. Millions watched the show as it became a way to unify the rich and poor throughout the country. The contest watched 2500 contestants over 25 weeks compete to become the next star.
Will Simon Leave American Idol?:
To end the show, Oprah asked Simon if the rumors were true that he would be leaving American Idol after this season is over. Simon explained that his contract is over, but he has been very thankful and grateful for his opportunities in the US and enjoys it here - whether he will stay or not is still an "open door." Oprah expressed that the show will offer Simon so much money that he won't be able to turn it down, and predicts he will return again next season. Who does Simon think will come out the newest Idol? His money is on Adam Lambert.
