America’s Got Talent Winners: Where Are They Now?

Since its premiere in 2006, America’s Got Talent has showcased a diverse range of talent, producing many memorable winners. Here’s an update on some of the show’s champions and what they’ve been up to since their victories.

1. Bianca Ryan (Season 1, 2006)

Bianca Ryan, the first-ever winner, stunned judges with her rendition of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” After a hiatus due to surgery for paralyzed vocal cords, she returned to the spotlight in 2020 on AGT: The Champions and has been performing and releasing music, including singing the National Anthem at a major boxing event in 2022.

2. Terry Fator (Season 2, 2007)

Terry Fator wowed audiences with his ventriloquism and singing impressions. He has maintained a successful Las Vegas residency and recently headlined a show titled Who’s the Dummy Now? at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino. He also competed on AGT: All-Stars in 2023.

3. Neal E. Boyd (Season 3, 2008)

The opera singer Neal E. Boyd captivated the audience with “Nessun Dorma.” He released an album and even ran for Missouri House of Representatives. Sadly, Boyd passed away in 2018 at age 42.

4. Kevin Skinner (Season 4, 2009)

Country singer Kevin Skinner earned fame with his audition of Garth Brooks’ “If Tomorrow Never Comes.” After his win, he released an album but has since kept a low profile, with little known about his current endeavors.

5. Michael Grimm (Season 5, 2010)

Michael Grimm won with an original song and went on to headline the first-ever AGT tour. He continues to perform, releasing music like 2022’s The Red Album and touring across the U.S.

6. Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. (Season 6, 2011)

After winning with a stunning rendition of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” Murphy headlined at Caesar’s Palace and released a jazz album that topped charts. He remains active in music, performing globally and contributing to charitable causes.

7. Olate Dogs (Season 7, 2012)

This father-son duo and their talented dogs won audiences over with their incredible tricks. They performed nationwide and collaborated with the Humane Society but have kept a low profile since 2018.

8. Kenichi Ebina (Season 8, 2013)

Kenichi dazzled as a dancer and returned for AGT: The Champions. He performs internationally and teaches choreography while maintaining an active presence in the entertainment industry.

9. Mat Franco (Season 9, 2014)

The magician made history as the first magician to win AGT. He has had a long-running residency in Las Vegas and is also a proud father, welcoming his first child in 2023.

10. Paul Zerdin (Season 10, 2015)

The ventriloquist won with his comedic performances and has since performed in Las Vegas and participated in AGT: The Champions. He remains active in the UK comedy circuit.

11. Grace VanderWaal (Season 11, 2016)

At just 12, Grace captivated audiences with her original songs. She has since released albums, starred in films like Stargirl, and signed with IMG models, establishing a multifaceted career.

12. Darci Lynne Farmer (Season 12, 2017)

Darci Lynne wowed audiences with her ventriloquism and singing. She has toured the U.S. and made guest appearances on various shows, while also exploring acting roles.

13. Shin Lim (Season 13, 2018)

The magician known for his stunning card tricks won AGT and its champions edition, securing a residency in Las Vegas where he continues to perform.

14. Kodi Lee (Season 14, 2019)

Kodi, a blind and autistic musician, won hearts with his piano skills. He continues to perform at the Luxor in Las Vegas, sharing his talent with audiences.

15. Brandon Leake (Season 15, 2020)

The spoken word poet moved audiences with his performances. He released a poetry collection and continues to showcase his talent in Las Vegas.

16. Dustin Tavella (Season 16, 2021)

Dustin combined magic with storytelling, and since his victory, he has headlined at AGT’s Luxor residency in Las Vegas.

17. The Mayyas (Season 17, 2022)

This Lebanese dance troupe captivated audiences with their performances and now headlines in Las Vegas while having performed at a private concert for Beyoncé.

18. Adrian Stoica and Hurricane (Season 18, 2023)

The dog trainer and his border collie won AGT and are set to perform in Las Vegas, sharing their special bond with audiences worldwide.

From music to magic and dancing dogs, the winners of America’s Got Talent have forged diverse paths, continuing to entertain and inspire audiences globally