Lewiston’s ‘Singing Soldier’ voted top 5 by fans, falls short of ‘America’s Got Talent’ finale
Lewiston’s Isaac Atkins Loses Spot in “America’s Got Talent” Finale
Lewiston, Maine – In a recent episode of the popular reality‑talent series, former Army sergeant Isaac Atkins, a Lewiston native who has earned the nickname “Singing Soldier,” was eliminated after placing fifth in the quarter‑final round. The decision, announced during Wednesday’s live results show, means Atkins will not advance to the season’s final episode.
Atkins, 29, began posting singing videos on TikTok two years ago, quickly building a following that extended from Maine to the national stage. He has since appeared on “America’s Got Talent” (AGT), where he performed the Kaleo track “Way Down We Go.” His rendition drew praise from several judges, most notably former Spice Girl Mel B, who had previously awarded him a Golden Buzzer during the audition round—an automatic pass to the live shows. Mel B called the performance “beautiful” and said, “America got it right. Your voice is musical.”
Despite the support, Atkins was unable to secure a spot in the top three vote‑givers, who move directly to the finale. The other finalists will be Acro Canine Crew, a dog act; magician Kameron Marshall; and comedian Daniel Alvarez. A 14‑year‑old singer, Lai Noelle, also secured a place in the final after receiving a Golden Buzzer from judge Kenan Thompson, who is temporarily filling in for long‑time judge Simon Cowell.
“Atkins’ performance was powerful, but the votes just didn’t add up,” Terry Crews, host of AGT, told the audience on the show. “It’s a tough night for everyone.”
Following the announcement, Atkins expressed a mix of disappointment and resolve. “I’m disappointed, but life goes on,” he told the Sun Journal. “I’m glad I got the exposure. It’s one of the best ways to get acclimated in front of a crowd as I look forward to continuing this journey of pursuing music.”
He described the moment the show’s producers called him from the stage as “very anxiety‑inducing” and noted that several fellow contestants congratulated him after the episode, encouraging him about his future success.
The season’s contestants, all of whom stayed in a hotel attached to the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, shared a week of rehearsals, performances and camaraderie. Atkins recalled late‑night gatherings with singers and musicians, saying, “Everyone was on this show for a reason and everyone, whether they didn’t make it to the semifinals or not, is going to be successful in their careers.”
He also highlighted his friendships with magician Kameron Marshall, whom he praised as “a great guy” and believes will succeed regardless of AGT placement, and with the group Pynk Beard, calling them “a great group of guys.”
Atkins’s journey on the show has coincided with his active duty as a U.S. Army sergeant stationed at Wahiawa Army Base in Hawaii. With the season ending, he plans to return to the islands and resume his military responsibilities. “Now that I’m been voted off the show, I’m going back to work,” he said. “I’ll soon fly back to Hawaii and fulfill my duties as a U.S. Army sergeant on active duty in Wahiawa, Hawaii.”
The decision to cut Atkins short of the finale highlights the fierce competition of AGT, where talent, timing and viewer votes combine to determine who moves forward. For Atkins, the experience has been described as “crazy,” a whirlwind of exposure that has opened doors and expanded his fan base.
While the show’s producers will continue to showcase new acts, the audience is left to wonder what next steps lie ahead for the Lewiston‑born vocalist. Whether he returns to TikTok, records new music, or focuses on his military career, the “Singing Soldier” has already proven that perseverance and passion can carry a performer far beyond a single television episode.
