America's Got Talent 2012: Howard Stern's Debut Gets Mostly Positive Reviews
Howard Stern debuted as judge on "America's Got Talent" Monday to largely positive reviews from TV critics.
Stern was greeted with a big ovation from the audience.
"These executives at NBC must be out of their mind to take a risk on me," he said at the beginning of the show.
The Los Angeles Times said Stern had a "sweet" debut, People Magazine said he "showed heart" and the Washington Post called him a "beloved" uncle.
Stern had thoughtful critiques and even touching moments in the peremiere such as when he praised a father-daughter duo. (Watch Below)
He gave hugs to contestants and even hit the stage to dance with contestant "Simply Sergio".
Other times, Stern let out the blunt honesty that he is known for, such as when he criticized a stripper magician and a singer.
"I had a lot of hope for you...I was really rooting for you...and all I saw was a guy with his pants off...and a rather small package," Stern told the stripper.
His bitter critic to the male singer who was booed by the audience had to do with his dead parents.
"Has someone in your life said to you, ‘This isn’t for you?’ ” he asked the singer. “A parent, maybe?”
“My parents are dead,” the man replied.
“Did they die of embarrassment?” Stern asked.
Stern reportedly signed a one-year contract with NBC for $20 million.
His addition to the show had the Parents Television Council to ask NBC to reconsider putting Stern on the family friendly show.
Watch the father & Daughter Duo Below:
