Since its debut in 2006, America’s Got Talent (AGT) has been the go-to platform for uncovering the most extraordinary talents in the world. Whether it’s singers, dancers, magicians, or ventriloquists, AGT has given countless performers the opportunity to showcase their skills and earn the ultimate prize: the title of America’s Got Talent champion.
With over a dozen seasons of incredible performances, AGT has launched the careers of many successful stars. But who actually won each season? In this article, we’ll look back at every winner, from the first season to the most recent, and explore how they’ve made their mark on the entertainment world.
1. America’s Got Talent Season 1 (2006): Bianca Ryan
The very first winner of America’s Got Talent was Bianca Ryan, a 11-year-old singer who captured the hearts of the nation with her powerful voice. Bianca’s victory was a major moment in the history of the show, setting the stage for future talent to follow. After winning, Bianca went on to record an album and perform on various stages, though she has since taken a step back from the limelight.
Key Takeaway: Bianca Ryan showed the world that age doesn’t limit talent.
2. America’s Got Talent Season 2 (2007): Terry Fator
Terry Fator, a ventriloquist and comedian, took home the victory in Season 2 with his remarkable talent for combining humor, impressions, and ventriloquism. Fator’s performances brought a unique twist to the traditional ventriloquist act, and his win led to a lucrative residency in Las Vegas.
Key Takeaway: Terry Fator proved that ventriloquism can still be a winning act on a grand stage.
3. America’s Got Talent Season 3 (2008): Neal E. Boyd
In Season 3, Neal E. Boyd, a classical singer, won the hearts of the judges and viewers with his incredible baritone voice. Neal’s powerful and operatic performances helped to elevate classical music within a pop culture setting. After winning, Neal released an album and performed at prestigious events, including the AGT finale in subsequent seasons.
Key Takeaway: Neal E. Boyd showed that classical music could win a modern talent competition.
4. America’s Got Talent Season 4 (2009): Kevin Skinner
Kevin Skinner, a country singer and chicken catcher from Kentucky, stunned viewers with his humble background and incredible vocal talent. His down-to-earth persona and powerful performances led him to victory, and he went on to release an album and tour. Kevin’s win was a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected contestants can emerge as champions.
Key Takeaway: Kevin Skinner’s victory was proof that authenticity and raw talent go a long way.
5. America’s Got Talent Season 5 (2010): Michael Grimm
Michael Grimm, a soulful singer from Mississippi, captured the hearts of AGT fans in Season 5 with his deep, raspy voice and his emotionally charged performances. After winning, Michael Grimm released music and performed at various events, though his career trajectory remained relatively low-key compared to some of the other AGT winners.
Key Takeaway: Michael Grimm’s success showed the power of authenticity in the music industry.
6. America’s Got Talent Season 6 (2011): Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.
Landau Eugene Murphy Jr., a jazz singer with a powerful, smooth voice, won Season 6 of AGT after delivering stunning renditions of classic crooner songs. His win propelled him into the spotlight, where he went on to release an album and perform in venues across the country.
Key Takeaway: Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. proved that classic jazz could still win a mainstream talent competition.
7. America’s Got Talent Season 7 (2012): Olate Dogs
In a surprise twist, the Olate Dogs, a dog act led by Richard Olate, took home the trophy in Season 7. This talented troupe of dogs, who performed incredible tricks, captured the hearts of audiences with their fun and family-friendly performances. They went on to tour and perform at various venues after their win.
Key Takeaway: The Olate Dogs showed that animal acts could be just as captivating as human performers.
8. America’s Got Talent Season 8 (2013): Kenichi Ebina
Kenichi Ebina, a dancer and performer from Japan, won Season 8 with his innovative dance routines that blended elements of martial arts, animation, and dramatic flair. His performances, which often felt like living works of art, made him one of the most unique winners in AGT history.
Key Takeaway: Kenichi Ebina demonstrated how creativity and innovation can redefine what dance means on a global stage.
9. America’s Got Talent Season 9 (2014): Mat Franco
In Season 9, Mat Franco, a magician, became the first magician to win AGT. His combination of comedy, charm, and mind-bending illusions made him an instant fan favorite. Since winning, Mat has gone on to headline his own magic show in Las Vegas, where he continues to amaze audiences.
Key Takeaway: Mat Franco’s win demonstrated that magic could be modernized and brought into the mainstream entertainment spotlight.
10. America’s Got Talent Season 10 (2015): Paul Zerdin
In Season 10, ventriloquist Paul Zerdin took home the victory with his hilarious and masterful performances using his puppet characters. Zerdin’s sharp comedic timing, combined with his ventriloquist skills, made him a standout competitor. After winning, Paul performed on stages around the world, bringing his ventriloquism act to new audiences.
Key Takeaway: Paul Zerdin showed that ventriloquism, when combined with comedy, can appeal to a broad audience.
11. America’s Got Talent Season 11 (2016): Grace VanderWaal
Grace VanderWaal, a singer and ukulele player, became an overnight sensation in Season 11. With her unique voice, infectious personality, and heartfelt original songs, Grace wowed both the judges and the audience. Since her win, Grace has released music, gone on tours, and solidified herself as a rising star in the music industry.
Key Takeaway: Grace VanderWaal’s win proved that young, original artists can make a major impact in the music industry.
12. America’s Got Talent Season 12 (2017): Darci Lynne Farmer
Darci Lynne Farmer, a ventriloquist and singer, wowed AGT audiences with her incredible talent for both ventriloquism and singing. At just 12 years old, Darci’s mature performances, combined with her charming puppets, made her a fan favorite. After her win, Darci continued to perform and tour, solidifying her place as a top ventriloquist in the industry.
Key Takeaway: Darci Lynne showed that ventriloquism could blend perfectly with singing and bring a new level of entertainment to the stage.
13. America’s Got Talent Season 13 (2018): Shin Lim
Shin Lim, a magician known for his sleight of hand and close-up illusions, became the winner of Season 13 with his mesmerizing tricks. His performances were so flawless that many viewers thought they were watching pure magic. Since winning, Shin has performed in Las Vegas and on various international stages.
Key Takeaway: Shin Lim proved that magic can be an art form, captivating audiences through elegance and precision.
14. America’s Got Talent Season 14 (2019): Kodi Lee
Kodi Lee, a blind and autistic singer and pianist, won AGT Season 14 with his emotionally powerful performances. Kodi’s story, combined with his incredible musical talent, made him an inspiration to many. His performances moved millions of viewers, and he has continued to tour and perform since his victory.
Key Takeaway: Kodi Lee demonstrated that talent and determination can overcome any obstacle.
15. America’s Got Talent Season 15 (2020): Brandon Leake
Brandon Leake, a spoken word poet, made history in Season 15 by becoming the first spoken word artist to win AGT. His heartfelt performances resonated deeply with audiences, earning him the title and recognition. After his win, Brandon has continued to spread his message of positivity and social awareness through poetry.
