When Archie Williams took the stage on America’s Got Talent, little did anyone know the heart-wrenching story he carried within.
This 60-year-old man had endured a lifetime of wrongful imprisonment in Angola prison, Louisiana, known for its brutal nature. In 1982, he was unjustly convicted for the rape and murder of a woman in her own home. Sentenced to life imprisonment, he was re-signed to spend the rest of his days behind bars. However, after more than three decades, he was freed thanks to DNA evidence.
“We had a choice whether to be strong or weak because you would be tested…it was like a nightmare. Freedom is of the mind, I went to prison but I never let my mind go to prison,” Archie told host Terry Crews.
“I watched ‘America’s Got Talent’ in prison and I would visualize myself being there, always desired to be on a stage like this and now I’m here, thank god. I know this is my chance of a lifetime.” The judges were utterly shocked by his story and felt sorry for how he endured for a long time.
“I’m so sorry you had to go through what you went through but thank god the right thing happened and you’re out,” Simon Cowell said to cheers from the 3,000 plus crowd.
During his audition, Archie moved the audience to tears with his rendition of the popular George Michael and Elton John hit, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down On Me.” His heartfelt performance left a lasting impact on everyone in the room.
Supermodel Heidi Klum said, “I don’t cry for a whole lot of things but that did it to me…that was very powerful.” Judge Sofia Vergara added, “Even though you did 37 years it didn’t break you, I can picture you watching the show, hoping…and now you’re here and we love you.”
With four definite yeses from the judges, Archie went on to the next round.