Season 11 Overview and Broadcast Details
America Got Talent 2016 contestants competed in season 11, which aired on NBC from May 31 to September 14, 2016. The season featured judge auditions in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, followed by live shows at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. The winner received the one million dollar prize and a Las Vegas headline residency. Official NBC America Got Talent season page
The season was hosted by Tyra Banks, with judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Heidi Klum, and Simon Cowell. Auditions were open to solo acts and groups of any age, with no professional representation required. Producers held open calls in multiple U.S. cities and reviewed online video submissions through the official NBC platform. Forbes coverage of the 2016 winner announcement
Top Finalists and Performance Highlights
Contestant Categories and Acts
America Got Talent 2016 contestants included singers, dancers, magicians, comedians, variety acts, and novelty performers. The top finalists ranged from teenage dance crews to adult vocalists and instrumentalists. Notable acts included mind readers, acrobatic groups, and musicians using unconventional instruments. Billboard recap of America Got Talent 2016 finalists
Live Show Format and Judging Criteria
Each live show featured performances scored by judges and voted on by the audience through phone, app, and online votes. The judges could use the golden buzzer once per season to send an act directly to the finals. Results were determined by a combination of public vote and judge commentary, with eliminations announced each week. Television Academy America Got Talent episode guide
Results, Records, and Post Season Impact
Winner and Runner-Up
The winner of America Got Talent season 11 was Grace VanderWaal, a singer-songwriter who performed with a ukulele. The runner-up was the dance duo Zurcaroh, known for their acrobatic and choreographed routines. VanderWaal became the youngest winner in the show's history at age 12. Billboard interview with Grace VanderWaal after winning
Post Show Careers and Industry Impact
Several America Got Talent 2016 contestants secured record deals, television appearances, and touring opportunities after the season. Grace VanderWaal released studio albums and performed at major festivals, while other finalists continued performing on cruise ships and in regional tours. The season demonstrated the show's role as a launchpad for emerging artists across multiple genres. NBC Insider list of America Got Talent winners and runner-ups