Nene returns to Phuket after historic AGT victory

PHUKET — 27 September 2026, Nene Royal returned to Phuket on Sunday after making history by winning America’s Got Talent 2026, with her family, fans and provincial officials gathering to welcome her home.

Nene, whose real name is Rattikarn Amlai, represented Thailand and her home province of Phuket on the global stage before claiming the America’s Got Talent title.

She returned from the United States via Hong Kong aboard Cathay Pacific flight CX771, which was scheduled to arrive at Phuket International Airport at 10:50 on 27 September.

Phuket Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom, along with Nene’s family, relatives and fans, gathered at the airport to welcome her home.

Among those waiting was her 89-year-old grandmother, Kaew Phoolkerd, known as “Mae Thao Kaew”, who travelled from Cha-uat district in Nakhon Si Thammarat province to see her granddaughter.

Kaew said she was extremely happy and proud of Nene’s success and planned to hug her as soon as they met after spending a long time apart.

“The last time I saw Nene was when I was ill. Nene came to visit me with her mother. I made a vow then, asking for Nene to come first and not miss out,” she said.

“I’m so happy, happier than ever. When I see Nene, I’m going to hug her because she’s my beloved granddaughter. I’ve missed her so much. We haven’t seen each other for a long time.”

Following Nene’s victory, the family plans to hold a Nora dance performance as an offering to fulfil the vow. Kaew said the family had already contacted the Nora Phumin troupe and that the performance was scheduled for the fifth day of a month she could not recall.

Kaew also recalled her close relationship with Nene since childhood, saying she gave her the nickname “Praew” when she was about two months old.

Phuket prepares homecoming parade

Phuket officials have organised a homecoming celebration on Sunday afternoon, giving residents and fans an opportunity to congratulate Nene on her international success.

The event is scheduled to begin at 16:00 at the Kho Sim Bee Building, where Nene will be welcomed by Phuket provincial officials.

She will then join a procession aboard an electric vehicle provided by Phuket City Municipality, travelling to Limelight Phuket before continuing through Phuket Old Town and ending near the Chartered Bank intersection.

A musical performance by Nene is also planned as part of the celebrations.

Governor Chotinarin and Phuket Deputy Governor Romdon Haji Awae said the province wanted to give Nene a warm welcome and allow residents to celebrate and show their support for Thailand’s representative.

Members of the public wishing to join the celebrations can gather at Limelight Phuket from 17:00 and watch the EV procession as it travels through Phuket Old Town.

The homecoming marks another milestone for Phuket after Nene brought international attention to both Thailand and her home province with her victory on the global talent show.