Paul Zerdin is a ventriloquist contestant on America’s Got Talent season 10, who received the Golden Buzzer from Marlon Wayans in the Judge Cuts. Read on for the facts on Zerdin and what he brings to the show.
1. Zerdin Is a Comic And a Magician
Paul Zerdin is a ventriloquist, mixing comedy with what appears to be magic. His technical skills are impeccable and he knows how to bring a modern take to ventriloquism.
2. He Has Several Characters In His Act
As a true entertainer, Zerdin has several puppets that he uses in his act. Zerdin explains:
I see myself as a one man Muppet sitcom, reining the characters in. The old man has a thing for the ladies and so does Sam who is about to become a teen and knows naughty words. Between the two of them they lead the baby astray and the baby, of course, wants to know everything. I think it is important to have characters that people can relate to rather than, say, talking sheep which are less believable.
Zerdin’s most famous characters are Sam, Baby and Albert.
3. His Love For Ventriloquism Sprouted At Age 10
When Zerdin was 10 years old, a family friend gave him a puppet theatre and he used it to put on shows. Zerdin writes on his website the key moment that he knew this was the career for him, stating:
The real turning point was when I was given a book on ventriloquism by the legendary Ray Alan. By the time I hit my teens I was spending half an hour a day in front of the mirror practicing talking without moving my lips.
He then got a job at a magic shop and continued to practice his talent.
4. Nigel Lythgoe of So You Think You Can Dance Took Him Under His Wing
According to Zerdin, when he was in his 20s, Nigel Lythgoe of So You Think You Can Dance helped guide him in his craft, which aided him in attaining gigs on Tonight at the London Palladium, Prince’s Trust Gala Show and Generation Game.
5. He Sells His Dolls Online
Paul Zerdin is known for his ventriloquist puppets and he even sells his dolls online for fans. Click here to check out his merchandise. He also sells DVDs of his act titled “No Strings.”