Nene Royal arrived back in her hometown of Phuket last night after receiving a Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent Season 21, saying she missed school and planned to return to class on Monday.
Nene, whose real name is Rattikarn Amlouy, 16, arrived at Phuket International Airport last night with her family after making headlines by receiving a Golden Buzzer from judge Mel B, sending her through to the final.
She received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from fans and senior Phuket officials, including governor Chotnarin Kerdsom.
Nene said she was happy to be back home and particularly missed school.
“I really miss my school. I plan to go back to class this Monday. Thank you to my friends and everyone who has sent me messages and given me encouragement,” she said.
Regarding the upcoming America’s Got Talent final, Nene said she would do her best and asked people in Thailand to continue supporting her.
She also said she would not go busking this weekend because she wanted to rest and spend time with her friends after returning home.
Chotnarin praised Nene for using her talent to bring recognition to Thailand on the international stage, saying her success demonstrated the determination of young people and could serve as an inspiration to others.
He also encouraged her to continue her education at a higher level.
The America’s Got Talent Season 21 final is scheduled to take place on the morning of September 23, 2026, Thailand time.
Nene took to the America’s Got Talent stage with her rendition of “Black Hole Sun”, a song by American rock band Soundgarden.
Her performance received widespread praise, including from Vicky Cornell, who was married to the late Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell.
Vicky praised Nene’s tribute in an Instagram Story.
“I have never heard anyone do such an incredible rendition — INCREDIBLE! YOU DID HIM PROUD!!” Vicky wrote. “What an incredibly talented young woman, truly just WOW!!”
Nene reshared Vicky’s post on her own Instagram Story and replied: “OMG!!!!!!! THANK YOU!”
