Thai Teen Guitar Prodigy Wins America's Got Talent 2026
Phuket-born guitarist Nene Royal, 16, won America's Got Talent 2026 in September, becoming the first Thai champion in the show's history after viral performances of rock covers impressed all judges.
Nene Royal, whose real name is Phraeo-Rattikant Amloy, is a 16-year-old rock guitarist from Phuket who has created a sensation in the global music industry on the stage of America's Got Talent 2026 (Season 21). From a young girl passionate about music to an emerging artist drawing international media attention, Nene Royal's path to the America's Got Talent 2026 championship is remarkable.
Key milestones in Nene Royal's life and career:
– Born March 14, 2010 in Phuket, Nene began teaching herself guitar through YouTube clips at around 6-7 years old, before starting to perform in public spaces under the name Nene Royal at age 12.
– In 2022, Nene caught the attention of Thai audiences by performing on Super 10, sharing the stage with legendary Thai artist Pook Unchali Chongkaedkij.
– In 2023, Nene won first runner-up and special awards for Best Musician and Best Vocalist at the Overdrive Guitar Contest, and received the Trang Music Award.
– In 2025, Nene received the Outstanding Player award at the King Power Band Competition, continuing to build stage experience.
– February-July 2026: Nene auditioned for America's Got Talent Season 21 in the United States.
– July 2026: Nene delivered a stunning vocal and guitar solo performance of The Cranberries' "Zombie," impressing all four judges. The performance video went viral with over 100 million views on social media within days.
– August 2026: In the Judges' Callbacks & Live Shows round, Nene performed Muse's "Hysteria" during Judges' Callbacks, earning widespread praise from music media at home and abroad. She then delivered a powerful performance in the live shows round, prompting judge Mel B to press the Golden Buzzer, sending Nene directly to the finals.
– September 23, 2026: Nene performed in the Final round of AGT 2026, showcasing "Seven Nation Army" on the championship stage amid global fan support.
– September 24, 2026: Nene Royal won the America's Got Talent 2026 championship, becoming the first Thai champion in the show's history.
