KRABI — 26 August 2026, A landmark “ancient man” statue at a traffic intersection in central Krabi has taken on a new look, with a guitar, headscarf and Thai national flag added as a symbolic show of support for 16-year-old Thai singer and guitarist “Nene Royal” as she competes on the global stage of America’s Got Talent 2026.
Nene Royal, whose real name is Praew Rattikarn Amlory, is from Phuket and has captured attention with her powerful vocals and intense guitar performance of “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden on America’s Got Talent 2026.
Her performance earned a major surprise when judge Mel B pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending her directly through to the Live Shows.
The emotional moment saw Nene Royal unable to hold back tears of joy, while her father joined her on stage and embraced her as the audience applauded and celebrated her achievement.
In Krabi, locals have found a creative way to send their support by combining the city’s iconic “ancient man” statues with the image of a musician.
The concept, dubbed “ancient man with a guitar,” has attracted attention online and become a colourful symbol of Krabi residents’ support for the young Thai performer.
Keeratisak Phukaoluan, president of the Krabi Provincial Education Council and the person behind the idea, said he and local residents wanted to show their support at the famous Ancient Man Intersection and wish Nene Royal success as she pursues her dream on America’s Got Talent 2026.
The project took three days to complete at the Nai Sriphong–Nang Kee Phukaoluan Foundation, with support from people and organisations including furniture craftsman Phamorn Thinnongjik, Chanate Anno, Jirapoj Chukliang, the Krabi Municipality electric lift truck team, Pompet Sukonkanit (Ko Juk), Krabi Deputy Mayor Adisak Hirun and others.
Nene Royal’s journey from a music-loving girl from Phuket to an international competition stage has inspired supporters across Thailand.
She now has more than her voice and guitar behind her as she prepares for the next stages of the competition, with Thai fans nationwide — including people in Krabi — cheering her on and hoping she can make it all the way to the America’s Got Talent 2026 finale.
Winai Rachsaeng, 64, a local counter staff member, said the idea was a great way to add colour to the city while joining the nationwide support for Nene Royal.
“It is a good idea and fits the trend of cheering for Nene Royal. We have to support our fellow Thai people. Personally, I am fully behind her. Nene is now an idol for young girls, including my granddaughter,” he said.
