Australian singer Lara D (full name: Lara Dabbagh) won Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer during her America’s Got Talent 2026 audition on June 8, 2026, delivering a powerhouse performance of RAYE’s “Oscar Winning Tears” that earned a standing ovation from all four judges.
As Howie Mandel began reaching for the Golden Buzzer, Sofia Vergara snuck her hand in and pressed it first, sending golden confetti raining across the stage and sparking an instant celebration.
Lara D Delivers Emotional Golden Buzzer Audition on AGT 2026
Lara D, a 28-year-old singer from Sydney, Australia, traveled to Los Angeles for AGT Season 21’s Auditions Episode 2, performing before judges Simon Cowell, Mel B, Sofia Vergara, and Howie Mandel, with Terry Crews hosting.
Her rendition of “Oscar Winning Tears” — a raw, emotionally charged song about resilience — captivated the judges immediately, with Simon Cowell calling it “brilliant” and Vergara saying “there’s something very special about her”.
Howie Mandel declared Lara “exactly the kind of act I’ve been looking for all night” before Vergara stole the buzzer from him.
Who Is Lara D? The Australian Singer Who Stole the Show
Lara D grew up in Sydney’s family business environment before pursuing music professionally, building a career through Australian television competitions and live performances.
Sofia Vergara Steals the Golden Buzzer from Howie Mandel
The Golden Buzzer moment became viral instantly: as Howie Mandel extended his hand toward the buzzer, Sofia Vergara “snuck her hand in and beat him to it,” creating chaos and laughter among the judges.
Vergara later explained in a recap video that she felt an “instant connection” to Lara’s performance and couldn’t wait for the other judges to vote.
Simon Cowell and Mel B joined in the celebration, with Simon calling the moment “iconic”.
THIS is what chasing your dreams looks like!!! Lara D, what a BEAUTIFUL moment! GOLDEN BUZZER!!! #AGT pic.twitter.com/WCQUYeYQm5
— Terry Crews (@terrycrews) June 10, 2026
Judges’ Comments and Reactions to Lara D’s Audition
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Simon Cowell: “Brilliant. That was absolutely brilliant.”
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Sofia Vergara: “I loved it. There’s something very special about her.”
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Howie Mandel: “She’s exactly the kind of act I’ve been looking for all night.”
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Mel B: Gave a standing ovation alongside all judges
All four judges rose for a standing ovation immediately after Lara finished singing, signaling universal acclaim.
Lara D’s Journey: From Family Business to AGT Stage
Lara Dabbagh grew up in Sydney helping her family run their business, but music was her constant passion from childhood.
She began performing locally in Australia, eventually auditioning for The Voice Australia:
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Season 7 (2018): Auditioned, but no coach turned for her
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Season 8 (2019): Auditioned again, finished in the Top 12
Her AGT 2026 breakthrough came after years of refining her vocal technique and emotional delivery, culminating in the Golden Buzzer moment.
Lara D Previous TV Appearances and Music Career
Before AGT, Lara D’s television appearances included:
She has performed at live venues across Australia and built a growing social media presence showcasing her vocal range.
Her music career is now accelerating internationally following the AGT Golden Buzzer viral moment, with views surpassing millions on YouTube recap videos.
Key Facts and Important Updates
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Episode: AGT 2026, Auditions Episode 2
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Auction Date: June 8, 2026 (aired on NBC)
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Host: Terry Crews
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Golden Buzzer Recipient: Lara D
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Viral Moment: Sofia Vergara stole the buzzer from Howie Mandel
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Performance Song: “Oscar Winning Tears” by RAYE
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Current Status: Advanced to next AGT round after Golden Buzzer
Full episode available on NBC and the next day on Peacock.
FAQ
Who is Lara D from AGT 2026?
Lara D is Lara Dabbagh, a 28-year-old Australian singer from Sydney who won Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer on AGT Season 21.
What song did Lara D perform on AGT?
She performed “Oscar Winning Tears” by RAYE, an emotionally powerful pop song.
Which judge gave Lara D the Golden Buzzer?
Sofia Vergara pressed the Golden Buzzer, stealing it from Howie Mandel.
Did Lara D appear on The Voice Australia?
Yes. She auditioned in Season 7 (2018) with no coach turning, and finished Top 12 in Season 8 (2019).
Where can I watch Lara D’s AGT audition?
The full episode is on NBC and available the next day on Peacock.
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