Road to Lives next week

Next week's episode is the Road to Lives episode, according to host Terry Crews.

The host hints that the acts performing in the live shows will be revealed in the episode.

Next week's episode airs Tuesday at 8pm ET on NBC.

Catch the Road to Lives episode next week, we'll release the #AGT live show acts!

— Terry Crews (@terrycrews) August 9, 2023

Fans slammed Howie for 'rude' response

Viewers were equally unhappy with Howie's response - and took to Twitter to slam him.

One wrote: "Howie with a totally d****e move. Didn't need to be so rude."

Another commented: "@HowieMandel Since you don't like being a judge (or you don't know how) why don't you quit pretending you give a crap."

A third viewer tweeted: "@HowieMandel was a grumpy sourpuss last week, and nothing has changed this week. I think his time is done on #agt."

Someone else tweeted: "Howie that was rude AF!"

Another viewer wrote: "I am so outraged. They totally should have gone through."

A sixth fan tweeted: "A troll move by Howie."

Howie slammed for ‘trolling’ flash mob act, continued

The group, Improv Everywhere, is well-known for doing flash mobs – or surprise performances – in public places and they were able to win back some of the panel.

Howie, however, could not be swayed, saying: "So you have two yeses and you need three to move on.

"I've got to be honest with you, this is more of a party gag. It's great for a party. I'll hire you, but I don't think it's for this show. Like, what could you do next? You couldn't surprise us."

His co-judges pleaded with him to be kind as the flash mob members crossed their fingers.

It appeared he was considering it, saying: "OK, well I'm gonna surprise you. I'm gonna say no."

His response led to loud boos from the audience and audible disagreement from his fellow judges.