Nene Royal rocks AGT 2026 final with ‘Seven Nation Army’
Phuket’s Nene Royal earns praise in the AGT final, with the winner of the US$1 million prize to be named on September 24, Thai time
Thai performer Nene Royal earned praise from the judges after taking on The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” in the America’s Got Talent (AGT) season 21 final in the United States, broadcast on September 23, 2026, Thai time. The 16-year-old from Phuket, a favourite among Thai fans, appeared in a bright red outfit for an energetic performance ahead of the announcement of the competition’s US$1 million winner.
Mel B and fellow judges praise Nene’s individuality
Mel B said she was proud to have awarded Nene the Golden Buzzer and praised the sense of mystery in her presentation. The judge also celebrated the teenager’s distinctive style and her roots in Phuket, Thailand, which she described as the best place in the world.
Noting that Nene was just 16, Mel B ended with a joke: “If you don't win this, I’m gonna sell Howie’s new house.”
Fellow judge Sofía Vergara said Nene’s worldwide appeal came from being unlike anyone else performing today. “The world is going crazy because there is nothing like you right now. You're unique and the rock world is already like... thank you for coming on AGT. Thank you. What a treat!.” Vergara said.
Howie Mandel, who has consistently championed Nene, described her as 'the biggest, most talented, most viral talent to be on that stage'. Standing beside Nene’s father to cheer her on, Mandel said she deserved to win and urged viewers to vote for her.
Nene hopes to join Linkin Park as AGT prepares results show
Nene shared AGT’s announcement that Linkin Park would appear as special guests and said she wanted to jam with the rock band, whose hits include “Numb”, “One Step Closer” and “In the End”.
Footage released before the final also showed Nene rehearsing with The Warning, the all-female rock band from Monterrey, Mexico. ธhe rehearsal could lead to a joint performance during the results show.
The AGT final broadcast on September 23, Thai time, featured the finalists’ competition performances. The winner of the US$1 million prize will be announced on Thursday, September 24, 2026, Thai time, in a separate programme featuring special guest performances.
