Who Won AGT: A Comprehensive Look At America's Got Talent Champions

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America's Got Talent (AGT) has captivated audiences since its inception, showcasing a variety of extraordinary talents from across the nation. Each season, viewers eagerly await the reveal of the winner, who not only walks away with a substantial cash prize but also the chance to headline a show in Las Vegas. In this article, we will explore the history of AGT winners, their performances, and the impact of their victory on their careers.

The journey of America's Got Talent began in 2006, and since then, it has become one of the most popular talent shows on television. From singers and dancers to magicians and comedians, the diversity of talent on AGT is remarkable. In this extensive guide, we will delve into the most memorable moments, notable winners, and what makes the show a cultural phenomenon.

In addition to highlighting past winners, we will discuss the format of the competition, the judging panel, and how the voting process works. By the end of this article, you'll have a thorough understanding of who won AGT and the significance of their achievements. Let’s embark on this exciting journey through the world of America's Got Talent!

Table of Contents

The History of America's Got Talent

America's Got Talent first premiered on June 21, 2006. Created by Simon Cowell, the show quickly gained popularity for its unique format that allowed anyone with talent to showcase their abilities. The show has had multiple seasons, each featuring a diverse array of contestants vying for the title of champion.

AGT has introduced several changes over the years, including the introduction of the Golden Buzzer, which allows judges and hosts to send their favorite acts directly to the live shows, bypassing the elimination rounds. This twist has added excitement and increased the stakes for contestants.

Key Milestones in AGT History

  • 2006: AGT premieres on NBC.
  • 2013: The introduction of the Golden Buzzer feature.
  • 2016: AGT celebrates its 11th season and introduces the "Champions" spin-off.
  • 2021: The show continues to adapt with virtual auditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What Makes a Winner: The Talents that Shine

Throughout its history, AGT has showcased a variety of performances that have captured the hearts of audiences. The winners often possess a unique blend of talent, charisma, and the ability to connect with viewers.

Some of the most common types of talent that have won AGT include:

  • Singers: Powerful vocalists often take home the title, as music is a universal language that resonates with many.
  • Dancers: Creative and stunning dance performances showcase physical artistry.
  • Magicians: Illusionists bring an element of surprise that captivates audiences.
  • Comedians: Humor can be a winning formula, making people laugh and feel good.

List of AGT Winners by Season

Here’s a detailed list of AGT winners by season:

SeasonWinnerActYear
1Bianca RyanSinger2006
2Terry FatorVentriloquist2007
3Neal E. BoydOperatic Singer2008
4Kevin SkinnerCountry Singer2009
5Michael GrimmSinger2010
6Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.Singer2011
7Olate DogsDog Act2012
8Kenichi EbinaDancer2013
9Mat FrancoMagician2014
10Paul ZerdinVentriloquist2015
11Grace VanderWaalSinger/Songwriter2016
12Darci Lynne FarmerVentriloquist2017
13Gabriel IglesiasComedian2018
14Kodi LeeSinger/Pianist2019
15Brandon LeakeSpoken Word Artist2020
16The MayyasDance Group2021

The Impact of Winning on Careers

Winning AGT can significantly impact a contestant's career. Many winners have gone on to achieve great success in their respective fields, leveraging their visibility from the show to secure record deals, tours, and other opportunities.

For instance:

  • Bianca Ryan released multiple albums and has toured internationally.
  • Terry Fator became a fixture in Las Vegas, performing regularly at The Mirage.
  • Grace VanderWaal has released several successful singles and albums and even acted in films.

The exposure gained from AGT can also lead to appearances on other television shows, endorsements, and collaborations with well-known artists.

The Judging Panel: Who Decides the Winners?

The judging panel is a crucial component of AGT. Over the years, the show has featured various judges, including Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara. Their feedback can make or break a contestant's journey on the show.

Judges often provide constructive criticism, encouragement, and insights during auditions and live performances. Their opinions can influence audience votes, as viewers often align their choices with those of the judges they admire.

How Voting Works on AGT

The voting process on AGT is primarily audience-driven. Viewers can vote for their favorite acts during live shows through various methods, including: