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Terry FatorAmerican ventriloquist, parodist, comedian and singer
Date of Birth: 10.06.1965
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Terry Fator: America's Got Talent Winner and Las Vegas Headliner
- Singing Ventriloquist
- Breaking through with America's Got Talent
- Las Vegas Headliner
- Puppet Collection
- - Walter T. Airedale: A long-haired country music singer
- Legacy
Terry Fator: America's Got Talent Winner and Las Vegas Headliner
Early Life and InfluencesBorn Terry Wayne Fator on June 10, 1965, in Dallas, Texas, Fator's early interest in ventriloquism began in fifth grade. Inspired by a book by Paul Winchell, he purchased his first puppet from a Sears department store and won $25 for a performance at a church picnic. His childhood was filled with entertaining family and friends with his ventriloquism and impersonations.
Singing Ventriloquist
Fator's love for singing led him to develop a unique skill: singing without moving his lips. He initially toured as a vocalist with the band "Freedom Jam" and later joined "Texas the Band" where he introduced his puppet character Walter T. Airedale.
Breaking through with America's Got Talent
In 2007, Fator participated in the second season of "America's Got Talent." Despite initial skepticism from judge David Hasselhoff, Fator's combination of singing and ventriloquism won over the audience and the judges. He went on to win the competition and received a $1 million prize.
Las Vegas Headliner
After his "America's Got Talent" victory, Fator signed a contract with the Las Vegas Hilton. In 2008, he entered into a five-year, $100 million deal with the Mirage Hotel and Casino, making him a major headliner on the Las Vegas Strip.
Puppet Collection
Fator's puppet arsenal includes a variety of characters, each with their own unique personalities and routines. Among them are:
- Walter T. Airedale: A long-haired country music singer
- Winston: A turtle inspired by Kermit the Frog- Soupy Sales: An African-American soul singer
- Elton: A double for Elvis Presley
- McCartney: A fifth, outcast member of The Beatles
- Wrex the Crash Test Dummy: A road-comic routine
Other Accomplishments
In addition to his ventriloquism career, Fator has also been featured in the animated television series "Mickey Mouse" on the Disney Channel. He has written a book titled "Who's the Dummy Now?" and continues to tour and perform worldwide.
Legacy
Terry Fator's unique blend of ventriloquism, singing, and comedy has made him one of the most successful entertainers in Las Vegas history. His performances continue to captivate audiences and inspire aspiring ventriloquists and performers.