Magic Maestro: Filipino-American Anna de Guzman makes history as America's Got Talent runner-up

CAPTURING HEARTS: Anna de Guzman, the talented Filipino-American magician, captured viewers' hearts as she soared to the runner-up position in the 18th season of "America's Got Talent."

JOURNEY TO THE BIG STAGE: Her incredible journey on the show marked a significant milestone, as she became the first female magician ever to reach the finals. Anna was on the verge of becoming the first Filipino-American winner in the show's history.

TRIUMPH: Ultimately, the title went to Adrian Stoica and his canine companion, Hurricane, who not only claimed victory but also received a substantial prize of $1 million (equivalent to P57 million) and a coveted performance slot at the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas. The dance troupe Murmuration finished third.

MAGICAL ACT: For her grand finale, Anna engaged the audience, along with judges Howie Mandell, Heidi Klum, Sofia Vergara, and Simon Cowell, as well as host Terry Crews.

SECRET CARD: A secret card sealed in an envelope was distributed to each crowd member, and Anna masterfully orchestrated a mesmerizing card trick. She left everyone stunned by accurately matching nearly all of Terry's cards, which astonishingly corresponded to the exact broadcast time of her performance on September 26, 2023, at 10:10 p.m.

FINAL CARD: The queen of hearts, Terry's final card, was revealed to be the card in every sealed envelope, earning Anna thunderous applause from the audience and the judges' admiration.

FAMILY BOND: Anna's mother, Tess, flew from the Philippines to witness her daughter's historic magic trick. This momentous occasion was a significant bonding experience for the single parent. Anna shared, "This has been very bonding. My mom doesn't know this world. She's always been a very normal, conservative woman. This is the first time I feel she's kind of been brought into my world."

PERSONAL VICTORY: In Anna de Guzman's eyes, her journey on "America's Got Talent" was already a victory in itself. Her remarkable talent, charismatic performances, and groundbreaking achievements have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of magic and entertainment.

YEARS OF PRACTICE: During her audition in June, 25-year-old De Guzman shared that she is an only child and was raised by a single mom. She added that she has been practising magic tricks for over five years.