John Hetlinger, 82, appeared to be the last guy you would expect to sing heavy metal as he took the stage at America’s Got Talent. He presented himself gently and with the soft energy of a kind grandfather. He was a retired aerospace engineer, a former Navy pilot, and a former Hubble Telescope program manager. The crowd gave a kind grin, obviously anticipating a hymn, an old favorite, or anything else but what was delivered.
The entire theater was stunned when John started singing “Bodies” by Drowning Pool as the backing track began. When he yelled, “LET THE BODIES HIT THE FLOOR!” with a gravelly growl, people’s mouths dropped and they either cheered or screamed in shock. He gave it his all, shouting his way through the chorus like a seasoned metal leader having a blast. He didn’t just joke his way through it either.
Like the audience, the judges experienced a range of emotions, including bewilderment, disbelief, and unadulterated appreciation. While Heidi Klum voted no, Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Simon all voted “yes,” sending John to the next round and instantly making his audition a viral classic. Simon Cowell turned crimson in the face from laughing and smiling.
You’re never too old to scream, rock out, and steal the show, as demonstrated by John’s performance, which received millions of views online and even made it to Drowning Pool, who welcomed him onstage to sing “Bodies” live with the band. An 82-year-old Colorado karaoke enthusiast turned into metal’s most unlikely hero for one memorable evening.
