In the 17th season of America’s Got Talent (2022), few performers captured the audience’s attention with as much charisma and precision as Jack Lepiarz, better known by his stage name Jack the Whipper. A professional circus performer and a real-life NPR news anchor, Jack brought a unique blend of “Renaissance Faire” showmanship and world-record-breaking skill to the AGT stage.
The Audition
Jack’s audition began with a rocky start when Simon Cowell, initially skeptical of the act, pressed his “X” buzzer before the performance truly took off. Undeterred, Jack used his quick wit to turn the moment around, inviting Simon onto the stage to assist. The highlight of the night featured Simon holding a single piece of dry spaghetti between his legs while Jack, with surgical accuracy, snapped it in half using a bullwhip. The daring stunt not only won over the crowd but also forced Simon to literally take back his “X,” leading to a standing ovation and four “Yes” votes.
Skill and Legacy
Beyond the spectacle, Jack is a serious athlete in his craft. He holds multiple Guinness World Records, including the record for the most bullwhip cracks in one minute (clocking in at an incredible 298). His persona, “Jacques Ze Whipper,” had already garnered millions of followers on TikTok prior to the show, where he famously performs musical whip-cracking routines to popular songs.
AGT Journey
While Jack was unfortunately eliminated during the “Deliberations” round and did not advance to the live semi-finals, his impact remained. He proved that traditional circus arts could be modernized for a global audience through humor and social media savvy. Since his appearance, Jack has transitioned into performing full-time, continuing to headline Renaissance festivals and digital platforms as one of the most recognizable whip-crackers in the world.
