It’s not often that the infamously grumpy singing show judge Simon Cowell gets vulnerable, but a recent episode of America’s Got Talent featured a genuinely touching moment.
Michael Ketterer first made an appearance on the show earlier this year, where he introduced the judges to his family, including his wife and six children—five of whom they adopted from foster care. Ketterer is a former United Pursuit worship artist and is currently a worship pastor.
After performing a cover of James Bey’s “Us” in the quarterfinals, Cowell asked that the camera cut away because he was trying to compose himself. Fighting back tears, he told Ketterer, “Michael, as a dad I can’t imagine what you’ve done. And the fact that you’re on this show and you really need this—I don’t know, you’re a really special guy. I don’t know, there’s something about you.”
Michael and his wife, Ivey, are also featured in a new “I Am Second” video, where they discuss the experience of being on the show, their family and their faith.