Spanish ventriloquist Celia Muñoz delivered one of the most memorable performances of America’s Got Talent when she honored the late Olivia Newton-John with a uniquely crafted tribute during the live shows. What made her act extraordinary was not only her vocal skill, but the fact that she performed without a puppet, breaking the traditional mold of ventriloquism and captivating the audience through pure technique, storytelling, and creative staging.
Her performance took place in a whimsical, retro “drive-in movie” setting. Sitting inside a prop car and surrounded by classic movie-theater elements, Celia mimicked watching a film, munching popcorn, sipping a drink, and reacting to the imaginary screen—all while flawlessly maintaining her ventriloquism. As she transitioned into singing Olivia Newton-John’s iconic ballad “Hopelessly Devoted to You” from Grease, viewers watched in disbelief as her lips remained perfectly still. The combination of technical skill, nostalgia, and emotional resonance created a powerful theatrical moment.
The judges were unanimous in their praise. Howie Mandel called her an “a cappella ventriloquist,” amazed by her ability to create so many sounds without a puppet. Heidi Klum admired the tenderness of the tribute and the difficulty of performing such a delicate song while acting out a full scene. Simon Cowell, initially unsure of the puppetless setup, ultimately declared the performance “brilliant” and “the most unique act” of the night.
What elevated this performance further was its emotional significance. Olivia Newton-John’s passing had left many fans grieving, and Celia’s heartfelt interpretation of one of her most beloved songs struck a chord with viewers. By blending music, acting, and impeccable ventriloquism, Celia Muñoz delivered a tribute that felt both fresh and deeply respectful—a bold, creative risk that paid off with widespread acclaim.
