Who Won America’s Got Talent in 2018
Michael Ketterer won America’s Got Talent in 2018, taking the top prize in season 13. The winner is determined by viewer votes combined with judge deliberation, and the victory includes a headline show in Las Vegas and a cash award. This verified explainer covers the season 13 finale, the finalists, and how the voting process works, with concise profile highlights for context.
Season 13 Finale and Winner
The season 13 finale of America’s Got Talent aired in September 2018 on NBC. During the finale, acts competed for votes from home viewers and the live audience. Judges provided feedback, but the outcome was decided by aggregated viewer votes. Michael Ketterer, a singer, was crowned the winner, earning the season’s grand prize and the signature golden buzzer legacy: a Las Vegas headlining show.
2018 Finalist Lineup
By the time the season reached the finals, the field was limited to a handful of acts. Finalists included a mix of singers, dancers, magicians, and variety acts. Three finalists are detailed below to illustrate the range of talent in the last stage of competition:
| Act | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Ketterer | Singer | Winner |
| Jimmy Rose | Singer | Finalist |
| Zurcaroh | Acrobatic Dance Group | Finalist |
Voting and Judgment Process
Voting in AGT typically opens during the finale and closes within a short window. Viewers can vote online and via the NBC app. Votes are combined with in-studio audience decisions, and judges may weigh in on close calls but do not select the winner. This multi-channel approach aims to reflect the largest possible audience preference while preserving transparency about how the winner is chosen.
The Winner’s Prize and Exposure
Winning America’s Got Talent in 2018 came with a headline show in Las Vegas at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, a long-standing tradition for the champion. In addition to the performance commitment, the winner receives a cash prize. These incentives are designed to launch or elevate the winner’s career, providing national exposure and a platform beyond the show.
Beyond the Winner: Notable Finalists
While the winner receives the top prize, finalists often see meaningful career momentum. Many acts secure tours, television appearances, and recording or representation deals after a strong finale. The broader impact of AGT extends beyond the winner, offering exposure that can change the trajectory of performers across categories. This context helps explain why audiences continue to follow the competition closely.