Phuket prepares to welcome America’s Got Talent winner Nene Royal
Sixteen-year-old Phuket singer and guitarist Nene Royal is scheduled to return on 27 September after winning America’s Got Talent Season 21 and its US$1 million prize.
Phuket is preparing to welcome home 16-year-old singer and guitarist Nene Royal after her victory in America’s Got Talent Season 21.
Nene, whose real name is Rattikan “Praew” Amloy, is scheduled to leave Los Angeles at about 9pm local time on Friday, 25 September 2026, and arrive in Phuket on Sunday, 27 September, according to MCOT Phuket. Thai nationals in the United States have been invited to see her off at Los Angeles International Airport’s Tom Bradley International Terminal.
Phuket Deputy Governor Romdon Hayiawae said the provincial administration was coordinating an official reception under the theme “FROM PHUKET. TO THE WORLD. — Welcome Home, Nene Royal”. The exact time and arrangements had not yet been finalised, he said at a press conference at Phuket Provincial Hall on 25 September.
Mr Romdon conveyed congratulations from Phuket Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom and the provincial administration, describing Nene’s achievement as a source of pride for Phuket and Thailand. He said the welcome would give people in the province an opportunity to congratulate her on her return to her hometown.
Nene secured the America’s Got Talent title and the show’s headline US$1 million prize after performing The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” in the live final. Earlier in the competition, judge Mel B gave her a Live Golden Buzzer for her performance of Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun”, sending her directly to the final.
Her run began with an audition performance of The Cranberries’ “Zombie”, followed by Muse’s “Hysteria” during the Judges’ Callbacks. Her victory made her the first Thai contestant to win the US talent show.
Students and teachers at Kajonkiet International School in Kathu, where Nene studies, gathered to watch the final and celebrate when she was announced as the winner. Residents also expressed pride in the teenager, who was known in Phuket for performing rock music before appearing on the programme.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul congratulated Nene in a message on his personal Facebook page. He said her success showed the potential of Thai young people when given opportunities to develop their abilities, and that the government was ready to support children and young people seeking to develop their talents and represent Thailand internationally.
