Nene Royal storms into AGT final with Mel B’s Golden Buzzer

Thai artist Nene Royal has advanced directly to the final of America’s Got Talent 2026 after receiving the Live Show Golden Buzzer from judge Mel B.

NENE performed Soundgarden’s Black Hole Sun during the live show, showcasing both her vocals and guitar-playing skills.

After the performance, Mel B praised NENE’s voice, guitar playing, overall look, energy and stage presence, saying she had everything needed to continue in the competition.

The judge then pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending the Thai fan favourite straight through to the final.

Overwhelmed by the result, NENE burst into tears before embracing her father in celebration.

The Golden Buzzer during the live shows was particularly significant because it sent Nene, the 16-year-old from Phuket, straight through to the America’s Got Talent final. Unlike the other contestants, she did not have to wait for the voting results to determine whether she would advance to the semi-finals.

The moment the golden button was pressed therefore became another major milestone in the Phuket teenager’s journey. She began the competition by performing The Cranberries’ “Zombie” in the audition round, earning four yes votes from the judges.

NENE then proved herself once again during the Judges’ Callbacks with Muse’s “Hysteria”, showcasing both her powerful vocals and guitar playing to secure a place among the 44 acts selected for the live shows.

What the AGT judges said before Mel B pressed the Golden Buzzer

It was a moment of immense pride for Thailand when Nene Royal, a Thai singer and guitarist, impressed the judges on America’s Got Talent so much that Mel B decided to press the Golden Buzzer, sending her straight through to the Live Shows.

After the performance, the host asked Nene, “How does it feel to be standing here?” before inviting the judges to share their comments.

Howie Mandel praised her light-heartedly, saying, “I know I’m not supposed to say this, but NBC, give her the million dollars right now!”

Sofia Vergara said she believed Nene had the potential to win the competition.

“Nene, I really think you could win this competition because your singing and guitar playing are insane. Your look and the way you present yourself make it easy to see why everyone loves you. I think you could win,” she said.

Host Terry Crews then turned to Mel B and said, “All right, Mel B, it’s your turn.”

Mel B admitted that this style of music was not what she normally listened to, but said Nene’s talent was impossible to deny.

“I have to say, I really love a good voice. I’m a ’90s girl and I love pop music. This kind of music is not my thing at all, but your voice is incredible, your guitar playing is incredible, and so are your look, your energy and your whole vibe. How could I not do this?”

As soon as she finished speaking, Mel B pressed the Golden Buzzer. The audience erupted in cheers as golden confetti rained across the stage.

Terry Crews then announced, “Nene Royal has just received Mel B’s Golden Buzzer, and she is going through to the Live Shows!”

This Live Golden Buzzer allowed NENE to skip the semi-final on September 15 and secured her place in the Finale on September 22, 2026, with the results to be announced on September 23, US time.