The 12-Year-Old AGT Winner Who Shocked The World: Where Is Grace VanderWaal Now In 2025?

The winner of *America's Got Talent* (AGT) Season 11 in 2016 was Grace VanderWaal, a 12-year-old singer-songwriter who captivated audiences and judges with her original songs and ukulele. Her meteoric rise from a shy audition to the $1 million grand prize winner was one of the most memorable journeys in the show's history, earning her the nickname "the next Taylor Swift" from judge Simon Cowell. This article, updated for December 2025, dives into her incredible biography, details the star-studded final five, and provides the latest updates on her burgeoning career in music and acting. Grace VanderWaal's victory over the other talented finalists, including the mentalist duo The Clairvoyants, marked a significant moment for the reality competition, proving that authenticity and raw talent could triumph over polished stage acts. Now a young adult, VanderWaal is fully embracing a new artistic era, with a major album release in 2025 and a distinct point of view in the pop landscape, making her story a fascinating look at life after winning one of the world's biggest talent shows.

Grace VanderWaal: Biography and Post-AGT Career Update (2025)

Grace VanderWaal's journey from a small-town girl with a ukulele to an international pop star is truly inspirational. Her initial audition, performing her original song "I Don't Know My Name," immediately went viral, earning her a Golden Buzzer from judge Howie Mandel.

Full Biography Profile:

• Full Name: Grace Avery VanderWaal
• Date of Birth: January 15, 2004
• Hometown: Suffern, New York, U.S.
• AGT Season: 11 (2016)
• Age at Win: 12 years old
• Winning Talent: Singer-Songwriter, Ukulele Player (Original Songs)
• Signature Songs: "I Don't Know My Name," "Light the Sky," "Clay"
• Post-AGT Record Deal: Signed with Columbia Records
• Film Debut: Starring role as Stargirl Caraway in the Disney+ film Stargirl (2020)
• Latest Album Release: Childstar (April 2025)

The Evolution of a Child Star

After her monumental win, VanderWaal did not slow down. She signed with Columbia Records and released her debut EP, *Perfectly Imperfect*, in December 2016. This was quickly followed by her first full-length album, *Just the Beginning*, in 2017. Her music was characterized by emotional depth and a unique, raspy voice, far beyond her years. She has since won several major awards, including the Radio Disney Music Award for Best New Artist and the Teen Choice Award for Choice Next Big Thing.

Current Music and Acting Career in 2025

Grace VanderWaal's career is currently experiencing a major resurgence in late 2025. She released her highly anticipated sophomore album, *Childstar*, in April 2025. The album is a deeply personal project that explores her life and experiences growing up in the entertainment industry. This release, along with preparing for more new music in 2025, marks a new era for the artist, showcasing her distinct point of view in the contemporary pop landscape. Beyond music, VanderWaal successfully transitioned into acting, taking on the starring role in the 2020 Disney+ film *Stargirl* and its sequel, *Hollywood Stargirl* (2022). Her ability to maintain creative control and evolve her image from the youthful ukulele player to a sophisticated pop-folk artist demonstrates her enduring talent and commitment to her craft.

The Star-Studded AGT Season 11 Finalists: Where Are They Now?

The 2016 season of *America's Got Talent* was particularly competitive, featuring a diverse group of performers who have all gone on to find success in their respective fields. The season was hosted by Nick Cannon and judged by a panel consisting of Howie Mandel, Mel B, Heidi Klum, and the show's creator, Simon Cowell, who joined the panel for the first time. The final five contestants were a mix of singers, mentalists, and a professional athlete-turned-magician, highlighting the broad appeal of the show.

1. The Clairvoyants (Runner-Up)

The Austrian mentalist duo, Thommy Ten and Amélie van Tass, finished in second place. Their mind-reading act was consistently baffling and entertaining, making them one of the most formidable acts in *AGT* history.

• Post-AGT Update: The duo has had a highly successful career since 2016. They were married after their appearance on the show and have performed on Broadway in New York. They continue to tour extensively across the U.S. and worldwide, often selling out major venues with their acclaimed mentalism show. They have also appeared on *AGT* spinoffs.

2. Jon Dorenbos (3rd Place)

Jon Dorenbos, a professional American football long snapper for the Philadelphia Eagles, captured hearts with his combination of magic and inspirational storytelling. His routines were known for their emotional depth and motivational messages.

• Post-AGT Update: Dorenbos continued his football career for a time but has fully embraced his role as a motivational speaker and magician. He has published a book, *Life Is Magic*, and frequently appears on talk shows and corporate events, sharing his powerful life story and performing magic.

3. Brian Justin Crum (4th Place)

The powerful vocalist Brian Justin Crum was a fan favorite, known for his incredible range and theatrical performances of classic and modern hits.

• Post-AGT Update: Crum has maintained a strong presence in the music industry. He has released original music and singles, performed in various stage shows, and continued to tour. His powerful voice and stage presence remain his signature, and he is a celebrated figure in the LGBTQ+ community.

4. Sal Valentinetti (5th Place)

Sal Valentinetti, a charismatic crooner from Long Island, New York, brought a classic, old-school charm to the competition. His performances of standards earned him a loyal following.

• Post-AGT Update: Often referred to as "Sal 'The Voice' Valentinetti," he has capitalized on his *AGT* fame by touring constantly. He performs his tribute to the Rat Pack and other classic crooners at venues across the country, keeping the vintage style of music alive for a new generation.

The Enduring Legacy of AGT Season 11

The eleventh season of *America's Got Talent* is often remembered as a turning point, not just for the introduction of Simon Cowell as a judge, but for the sheer quality and diversity of its acts. The season showcased that the audience was ready to embrace unique, original talent over traditional entertainment. Grace VanderWaal’s victory with her original songs cemented the idea that the show could launch a genuine, contemporary music star. Her Golden Buzzer moment, where a tearful Howie Mandel declared her a "living, beautiful, walking miracle," is still one of the most replayed clips in the history of the franchise. The success of the other top finalists, from the global touring of The Clairvoyants to the inspirational career of Jon Dorenbos, demonstrates the massive platform that *AGT* provides. Even years later, in 2025, the careers of the Season 11 finalists are still thriving, proving that the show’s impact extends far beyond the final results night in September 2016.