Thai Teen Rocker Nene Royal Wins America’s Got Talent 2026

Photo: FB Nene Royal 

BANGKOK, Sept 24 - Sixteen-year-old Thai guitarist and singer Nene Royal has won season 21 of "America's Got Talent," becoming the first contestant from Thailand to claim the title.

The teenager from Phuket secured the grand prize after delivering standout rock performances throughout the competition, including a rendition of The White Stripes' "Seven Nation Army" in the live final.

Ahead of the final results, Nene also shared the stage with American rock band Linkin Park during the finale results show, performing vocals and guitar for their track "The Emptiness Machine".

As the season champion, Nene wins a $1 million grand prize, which can be paid out either as a 40-year annuity of $25,000 per year or as a reduced lump sum, both before taxes.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, speaking from New York, congratulated Nene and her family, praising the young musician for representing Thailand's creative talent on an international stage and inspiring a new generation. -819 (TNA)