Thai Teen Rocker Nene Royal Wins America’s Got Talent Season 21

At just 16 years old, Nene Royal from Phuket, Thailand, has made history by winning Season 21 of America’s Got Talent (AGT). She’s the first Thai contestant to take home the top prize on the popular US talent show.

Nene, whose real name is reported as Rattikarn Amloy, wowed audiences and judges alike with her powerful voice and guitar skills. Her journey on the show started with a stunning audition performing The Cranberries’ “Zombie.” She kept impressing with performances like Muse’s “Hysteria” during callbacks and Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun,” which earned her a Golden Buzzer from judge Mel B. This special buzzer sent her straight to the grand finale, skipping the usual public vote stage.

In the final, Nene rocked the stage with The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army,” earning praise from all the judges. She faced tough competition, including magicians and dance groups, but her unique rock style stood out. When the votes came in, she was crowned the winner, earning a $1 million prize. Magician Geno Ploeger came in second, while the South Korean magic group Hundred Fingers took third place.

The finale also featured special guests like the rock band Linkin Park, who performed alongside Nene, creating one of the night’s most memorable moments. The band’s co-founder Mike Shinoda called her “amazing” and “incredible.”

Back home in Thailand, Nene’s win sparked celebrations. Her school held a watch party, and the Prime Minister praised her for bringing pride to the nation. She’s been recognised not only for her talent but also for representing Thai culture, incorporating woven fabric from the Andaman region into her stage outfit.

Nene taught herself guitar as a child, playing in Phuket’s night markets before rising to global fame. Despite her new level of success, her school principal describes her as humble and a great role model for younger students.