Mandel searches for Tiny Tim redux on talent show

[June 15, 2010]  LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Howie Mandel contends there's a Tiny Tim-sized void in entertainment today, and he aims to fill it as a judge on "America's Got Talent."

Joining the NBC show this season is allowing the comedian to exercise his taste, which he cheerfully acknowledges embraces the good, the bad and the weird.

Mandel says that as much as he loves seeing somebody undiscovered and unique, there's something to be said for "the insanity and the train wreck."

"America's Got Talent" airs Tuesday and Wednesday nights. The show is hosted by Nick Cannon and includes Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan on the judging panel with Mandel.

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NBC is owned by General Electric Co.

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Online:

http://www.nbc.com/

[Associated Press; By LYNN ELBER]

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