<P> On October 22, 2015, it was announced that creator Simon Cowell would replace Howard Stern as a judge for season 11 . On January 12, 2016, it was announced that Mel B, Heidi Klum, and Howie Mandel would all return as judges, with Nick Cannon returning as host . The live shows will also move from New York back to Los Angeles, due to Howard Stern's departure . The live shows will be held at the Dolby Theatre . </P> <P> Auditions in front of the judges began on March 3, 2016 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California . The season premiered on May 31, 2016 . </P> <P> On September 14, 12 - year - old singer - songwriter and ukulele player, Grace VanderWaal was announced as the winner making it the second time that a female act has won the show since Season 1, and the second child act to win the competition . Magician mentalists The Clairvoyants was runner - up, and magician Jon Dorenbos was in Third Place . </P> <P> On August 2, 2016, it was announced that host Nick Cannon and all four judges would be returning for season 12 . Later that year, on October 4, Simon Cowell signed a contract to remain as a judge through to 2019 (Season 14). </P>

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