Pasadena, California, USA, June 9, 2026 — Magician Geno Ploeger, 21, delivered a card-based storytelling routine on America’s Got Talent Season 21 that traced his own path into magic, earning a standing ovation and unanimous approval from the judges.
Ploeger, originally from Hartland, Wisconsin, has performed magic since age 5, when he first saw his grandfather do a trick. He began taking weekly lessons at a local magic store, and by age 10, magician Brian LeBoeuf became his mentor, preparing him to perform at conventions and private events. Watching Mat Franco win AGT Season 9 further inspired Ploeger to pursue magic seriously. Two years before his own AGT audition, he interned under Franco, learning directly from the magician who first put the idea in his head.
Telling a Life Story With a Deck of Cards
For his audition, Ploeger had Simon Cowell write a word on a card of his choosing and had Mel B. shuffle the deck. He then revealed cards throughout the routine that lined up with details of his own life, including one representing his introduction to Franco’s Season 9 win, weaving the story of how a kid who watched Franco on television ended up training under him and, eventually, auditioning on the same stage.
Ploeger received four yes votes and a standing ovation, growing emotional as the audience cheered. Judges praised his showmanship and professionalism, while noting he will need to develop a style distinct from his mentor’s as he advances.
Responses