Grace VanderWaal’s America’s Got Talent Debut
In 2016, 12-year-old Grace VanderWaal auditioned for America’s Got Talent with an original song, “I Don’t Know My Name,” showcasing her unique voice and emotional songwriting. She quickly impressed the judges and earned comparisons to Taylor Swift.
Golden Buzzer Moment
After her heartfelt performance, Howie Mandel pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending Grace straight to the live shows. “You’re a walking miracle,” he said, while Simon Cowell predicted she’d be the next pop star. “Grace, you are the next Taylor Swift,” he added.
Post-AGT Success
Following her win on AGT Season 11, Grace’s career took off. She acted in Stargirl and recorded music, playing a pop star in Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis.
