Sixteen-year-old singer-guitarist Nene Royal won season 21 of “America’s Got Talent,” which ended Sept. 23. The $1 million prize can be taken as a 40-year annuity or its present cash value before taxes; Royal also gets a chance to headline a Las Vegas show.
Forbes estimated in 2016 that a winner choosing the lump sum would receive about $300,000 before taxes, compared with roughly $25,000 annually under the 40-year annuity.
Contestants are not paid for appearing and receive no additional compensation, residuals or reuse fees. The show provides food, lodging, travel and transportation while they compete.
