How the ‘America’s Got Talent’ winner plans to spend her prize money

What does a 12-year-old newly minted millionaire do with her new found fortune? Ventriloquist and national sensation Darci Lynne Farmer won the “America’s Got Talent” season 12 title on Wednesday.

Throughout the season, she seemed to handle the pressure like a total pro. Still, you have to wonder what went through her brain as she stood on that finale stage waiting for the big announcement. Farmer admitted her nerves almost got the better of her.

“I was so stressed out. That was the longest 30 seconds of my life,” Farmer told Entertainment Tonight. “I was, like, just spit it out Ty Ty! ”

And how adorable did she look when she found out she won?

Farmer’s win capped off a run that began with her getting Mel B’s golden buzzer at the start of the season. The young girl and her bunny, Petunia, sang a rousing rendition of “Summertime’ and captured the judge’s heart, along with the rest of America. In the end, the viewers voted to give Farmer the “AGT” title and prizes.

Watch her winning performance below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ropWor8aAM

So, what’s in store for Miss Darci Lynne and her menagerie now that the season ended? The ventriloquist took some time away from her beloved puppets to share her plans for some of the $1 million prize money.

“First, I am definitely going to give some money to my mission program at church, and then I have to get my mom a dishwasher,” Farmer said. “Then I’m definitely going to get a pug, because I really want one—if my parents let me.”

Sure, she’s a television star, but it’s great to see she’s still a little girl who wants a new puppy. And, kudos to her for wanting to take care of mom and her church, too!

But Farmer won’t spend that $1 million too soon. In fact, Forbes published a report about how “America’s Got Talent” pays out the prize money. The winning contestant has two choices:

• Receive the $1 million prize as an annuity paid out over 40 years. This equals about $25,000 per year before taxes.
• Get a lump sum payment for approximately $300,000 before taxes.

And in case you’re worried about going through Darci Lynne withdrawal now that the AGT season has ended, don’t worry: Farmer and her furry, talkative friends will soon headline a couple shows in Las Vegas that super fans can try to catch.

The morning after the live season finale, “AGT” tweeted details about the show.

The show runs for two performances (Nov. 2 and Nov. 3) at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. In addition to Farmer’s headlining act, the audience will see performances from finalists Angelica Hale, Light Balance and Preacher Lawson. For more information on tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com. Presale tickets go on sale Friday, Sept. 22.