Nene Royal heads to the U.S. for America’s Got Talent live shows: “I’m 100% ready”

Thai teenage rocker Nene Royal has left Thailand for the United States, where she will compete in the live-show stage of America’s Got Talent 2026.

The 16-year-old singer, whose real name is Rattikarn “Praew” Amloy, departed from Phuket International Airport on Wednesday with her parents and younger brother. She said she has been rehearsing intensively and feels fully prepared for the next challenge.

“I aim to do my best in this round, even better than the two previous rounds, with a special surprise prepared.”

Nene is scheduled to perform on August 25, when the quarterfinal stage continues. She also encouraged her supporters, particularly Thai fans in the United States, to vote for her.

“I have prepared a special surprise for the fans. And especially for the Thai people in America, please vote for me,” she said.

Nene has already made a strong impression on AGT audiences. During her audition, she performed The Cranberries’ “Zombie,” before returning for the Judges’ Callbacks with Muse’s “Hysteria.” Her performances have helped establish her as one of the young international contestants to watch this season.

Her father, Narong Amloy, said the entire family has supported Nene throughout her AGT journey. He acknowledged that they have learned from both the successes and mistakes of the earlier rounds and hope to make the upcoming performance even stronger.

The live shows began on August 18 and will continue through September 8, with contestants performing before the judges and a live audience. Voting takes place immediately after the performances, with results announced shortly afterward.

The AGT 2026 semifinals and finale are scheduled to conclude on September 23.

For Nene, the next performance is another major step in an increasingly remarkable journey from Phuket to one of America’s biggest talent competitions.