There is a timeless appeal to viral talent show moments, especially when outstanding child performers capture the world’s attention. Enter “The Gentlemen,” a changing dance duo consisting of Filipino-American brothers Zach and Cameron Belandres from Fairfield, California. At the time of their debut, Zach was twelve and Cameron was just nine years old. Their remarkable talent later resurfaced on the archival Top Talent YouTube channel. Uploaded on May 14, 2020, the video quickly reminded audiences of their star power, accumulating over 378,000 views and more than 3,500 likes.
The viral clip is actually a phenomenal throwback performance from season ten of America’s Got Talent, which originally aired in 2015. Taking the stage in sharp miniature suits and matching suspenders, the young brothers brought an unforgettable aesthetic to their audition. Their choreography was a high-energy, smooth blend of hip-hop, breakdancing, and popping, all delivered with an incredibly smooth stage presence. The boys completely owned the stage, demonstrating an extraordinary level of precision and confidence. You can watch the dazzling audition that started it all below.
Viewers remain completely captivated by the staggering level of coordination and natural swag the brothers display throughout the routine. Fans are particularly impressed by the maturity and skill of the younger sibling, with one viewer noting “it is amazing that at nine how much rhythm the younger brother has”. The duo’s flawless synchronization makes their demanding choreography look effortless. Another user praised the overall aesthetic and execution of the routine, writing that “it was amazing, they danced so gracefully, and it was smooth”.
The brothers’ sharp pop-and-lock transitions and clean footwork immediately drew high-profile comparisons to the King of Pop. One impressed fan commented that “Michael was looking down from heaven with a smile”. The influence of Michael Jackson is evident in every moonwalk and spin they execute, which followers of The Music Man will almost certainly recognize. In awe of their immense star power, another viewer remarked that “the kids have the potential to be the next King of Pop because they have clean moves”. For more incredible choreography inspired by the King of Pop, watch other young dancers channel their inner Michael Jackson on the big stage.
Following their spectacular initial audition, Zach and Cameron successfully advanced to the highly competitive Judge Cuts round of season ten. Their Judge Cuts performance was strong enough to send them onward to the live Quarterfinals. The brothers ultimately made it to the Quarterfinals before their journey on America’s Got Talent came to a heartbreaking end in the Judges’ Choice. However, their exit from the famous reality show was far from the end of their entertainment careers.
The exposure from the show introduced “The Gentlemen” to a much wider audience. Embracing their Filipino heritage, the brothers continued earning attention from fans who celebrated their talent and charm. They later kept their competitive dance story going with an appearance on season two of NBC’s World of Dance. Today, their throwback performances continue to inspire young dancers worldwide.