Teen Rocker Nene Royal Makes History as First Thai Winner of America's Got Talent
The 16-year-old musician's heavy metal performances captivated audiences, culminating in a victory that has sparked national pride in Thailand.
Nene Royal, a 16-year-old rock musician, has become the first Thai contestant to win America's Got Talent. Her victory in the show's 21st season was announced Tuesday in California after a finale performance of "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes.
Royal, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, faced off against nine other finalists, including magicians, animal acts, and a dance crew. Her heavy metal performances had previously gained significant traction, particularly a viral audition clip of her rendition of "Zombie" by The Cranberries, which garnered 20 million views.
In the days leading up to the results, Royal performed alongside the band Linkin Park on "The Emptiness Machine." Following her win, she expressed immense happiness and emotion, thanking her supporters. The $1 million prize accompanies the title.
Back in Thailand, Nene Royal's win has been met with widespread celebration and pride. The Thai government hailed her as an "inspiration to anyone who dares to dream big" and noted the significance of her carrying her Thai identity onto a global stage. "She showed that talent, hard work, and determination can come from anywhere, including a young girl from Phuket with a guitar and a big dream," a statement from the government's public relations department read.
Fans in Thailand followed the results through a YouTube livestream, which experienced an abrupt interruption during the announcement. Relief and joy followed as news of her victory spread.
Nene Royal began playing guitar at age seven, aspiring to be a touring musician. In her hometown of Phuket, she was known to perform at the Naka Weekend Market. A tour guide from Phuket, Piyarat Na Songkhla, who has seen Royal perform since she was young, expressed his elation and pride. The Naka Weekend Market's Facebook page posted a tribute, calling her victory an inspiration. Her school, Kajonkiet International School in Phuket, also shared its pride, posting a video of students and staff cheering for her final performance.