‘America’s Got Talent’ Prize Has Been Changed — What’s New?
Trae Patton/NBC Reading Time: 3 minutes
Deriving prestige from its highly coveted prize, America’s Got Talent is no usual talent show. Over the years, winners have gotten the chance either for a headlining spot on an AGT live tour or a residency in Las Vegas, Nevada. For season 18 though, the show has decided to tweak its prize a bit.
America’s Got Talent Changes Winner’s Prize
Upon scoring success on the show, AGT winners are promised to have a steady live performance gig after the season. Either a place in the AGT live tour or a Las Vegas residency is thus only a fair prize. Now, the show has once again changed the format of the prize.
Since May, America has begun looking for their next AGT winner. Given the show’s successful Las Vegas show, AGT has adjusted it’s prize, for reasons unknown. Now, the winner will have a spot in the Las Vegas show of the series, America’s Got Talent presents Superstars Live at Luxor Theater.
“A celebration of some of the best acts from the hit franchise America’s Got Talent, this 75-minute fast-paced, high action variety show features show-stopping moments ranging from thrill acts and magicians to vocalists and acrobats – all performed by past AGT super stars!” the show description reads.
Clearly, this is not as massive as the previous award. Nonetheless, it’s still a good opportunity to showcase talent. As season 18 continues to search for the most deserving contestant, we’re close to crowning the latest addition to Superstars Live will be.
The $1 Million Prize Money Comes with a Catch
In every season, AGT has always emphasized the $1 million prize as the grand award. Panel judges and Terry Crews have frequently reminded how tough the stakes are before winning the huge prize.
However, while the $1 million prize may appear like it’ll be given in full cash, it doesn’t work that way. Such award comes with a disclaimer, flashed on screen during the announcement of winner.
“The prize, which totals $1,000,000, is payable in a financial annuity over forty years, or the contestant may choose to receive the present cash value of such annuity. Contestants are informed of the rules prior to the show and must meet eligibility requirements to receive announced prizes,” the disclaimer reads.
If the winner chooses the 40-year payout option, they will receive $25,000 a year before taxes for 40 years. However, if they choose to receive the money in its entirety, the prize will come out more or less $300,000 before taxes.
Either way, the money that the winner will obtain does not equate to $1 million. Nonetheless, AGT doesn’t simply guarantee a cash prize and a steady performance gig but possibly a successful lifelong career.
