Grace VanderWaal: the talented singer who captured the hearts of millions as a young girl on “America’s Got Talent,” is all grown up. Nearly eight years after winning the competition at the age of 12, Grace recently made a surprise appearance in a TikTok video that has quickly gone viral. In this interview, she opened up about her journey, the challenges of growing up in the spotlight, and how she has learned to embrace confidence.
A Surprise Appearance
The TikTok video, posted by popular creator David Cary, features a candid moment with Grace VanderWaal as she walks the streets of New York City. In the video, David approaches Grace and asks her what makes her feel confident while out on the streets. Grace, who is now 20 years old, responded with a mix of surprise and humor, revealing that having somewhere to go makes her feel confident. “I feel like it’s so common in New York,” she said, “having somewhere to go makes you look confident ’cause you’re just going to rush.”
This simple yet relatable answer highlights the growth and maturity Grace has developed over the years. Gone is the shy, ukulele-playing girl who took the stage on “America’s Got Talent.” In her place is a young woman who has navigated the complexities of fame and is now more comfortable in her own skin.
Growing Up in the Spotlight
Grace VanderWaal’s journey began when she auditioned for “America’s Got Talent” in 2016. Her unique voice, original songs, and undeniable talent quickly made her a fan favorite. Judge Simon Cowell famously called her “the next Taylor Swift,” a prediction that set high expectations for the young star.
Winning the competition at such a young age brought Grace instant fame, but it also came with its own set of challenges. In the TikTok interview, she reflected on how growing up in the public eye forced her to step out of her comfort zone. “I honestly felt like it helped me as a person because it threw me into scrutiny and just kind of forced me to sink or swim,” she said.
This experience, though difficult at times, helped Grace build resilience and confidence. She admitted that performing on big stages and being under constant scrutiny wasn’t easy, but it ultimately made her stronger. Grace’s ability to reflect on these experiences with such clarity and insight is a testament to her growth as both an artist and an individual.
Embracing Confidence
When asked about her secret to becoming more confident, Grace’s answer was simple yet profound: “Just accept who you are and like, don’t try to be anyone else.” While this advice may sound cliché, Grace emphasized that it’s rooted in her personal experiences. She learned to embrace her strengths and not let the pressure of expectations dictate her actions.
Grace’s journey to self-acceptance wasn’t an easy one. She has been open about the mental and emotional struggles she faced after winning “America’s Got Talent.” In a 2022 interview with E! News, Grace shared how the intense scrutiny and online hate she received as a young star affected her mental health. “Looking back, I have definitely faced the mental repercussions of that growing up,” she said. “I keep learning about how to take care of myself, and my biggest thing recently is just acknowledging your triggers.”
This self-awareness has been crucial in helping Grace navigate the ups and downs of fame. She acknowledged that while the online hate she experienced was painful, it also prepared her for the realities of life in the spotlight. “I’m happy it happened though because it prepared me for this life,” she added.
Advice to Her Younger Self
In the TikTok interview, Grace was asked what advice she would give to her younger self. Her response was both poignant and reflective: “Don’t trust everyone.” This piece of advice hints at the challenges Grace faced as a young star, learning who to trust in an industry that can be both exhilarating and unforgiving.
Grace’s advice to her younger self is a reminder of the lessons she’s learned along the way. Trust is a precious commodity, especially in the entertainment industry, where not everyone has your best interests at heart. Grace’s ability to recognize this at such a young age speaks to her maturity and the wisdom she has gained through her experiences.
From Child Star to Confident Young Woman
Grace VanderWaal’s transformation from a 12-year-old child star to a confident young woman is nothing short of remarkable. Her journey has been filled with highs and lows, but through it all, she has remained true to herself. Grace’s willingness to share her experiences and the lessons she’s learned is a testament to her character and resilience.
As she continues to grow and evolve as an artist, Grace’s story serves as an inspiration to others. Her journey reminds us that confidence isn’t something that comes naturally to everyone, but it’s something that can be developed over time. By embracing who she is and learning from her experiences, Grace VanderWaal has become a role model for young people everywhere.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Grace VanderWaal looks to the future, there’s no doubt that she has a bright path ahead of her. Her talent, combined with her resilience and self-awareness, will continue to propel her forward in the entertainment industry. Whether she’s making music, acting, or simply sharing her thoughts in a TikTok video, Grace’s authenticity shines through.
Fans who have followed Grace since her “America’s Got Talent” days will undoubtedly continue to support her as she embarks on the next chapter of her life. Her journey is a reminder that growing up in the spotlight is never easy, but with the right mindset and a strong sense of self, it is possible to thrive.
Grace VanderWaal’s appearance in David Cary’s TikTok video may have been a surprise, but it was also a powerful reminder of how far she has come. From a shy young girl with a ukulele to a confident young woman with a message, Grace’s journey is one of growth, resilience, and self-acceptance. As she continues to navigate the world of fame and entertainment, there’s no doubt that Grace will continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Conclusion
Grace VanderWaal’s story is one of transformation and growth. From her humble beginnings on “America’s Got Talent” to her current status as a confident young woman, Grace has shown that it’s possible to navigate the challenges of fame with grace and resilience. Her appearance in the viral TikTok video is just the latest chapter in her ongoing journey, and it’s clear that she has a bright future ahead of her.
As Grace continues to embrace who she is and share her story with the world, she serves as an inspiration to others who may be struggling with their own confidence. Her message is simple yet powerful: accept who you are, and don’t be afraid to be yourself. In a world that often tries to put people into boxes, Grace VanderWaal is a shining example of what it means to break free and embrace your true self.