The Heartbreaking List: America's Got Talent Contestants Who Have Died Too Soon (Updated December 2025)

The bright lights and soaring dreams of America's Got Talent (AGT) have captivated millions since its debut, yet behind the spectacle lies a series of heartbreaking losses that have deeply affected the show's community. As of December 2025, the AGT family continues to mourn the passing of beloved contestants whose talents shone brightly, but whose lives were cut tragically short, often just as their stars began to rise. This list serves as a tribute, remembering the unique talents and compelling stories of the AGT stars who have sadly passed away, focusing on the most recent and impactful losses that have shaken fans and judges alike.

The latest news surrounding the AGT community includes the deeply saddening passing of two distinct talents: a young dancer from the most recent season and a fan-favorite comedian. These tragic deaths remind us of the fragility of life and the immense pressure that can accompany sudden fame, even for those who only briefly grace the national stage.

The Most Recent Tragedies: Emily Gold and Kabir Singh

The AGT community was recently struck by the news of two high-profile deaths, making headlines and prompting an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow contestants, and the judging panel. These recent losses highlight the emotional toll and health struggles many performers face behind the scenes.

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Emily Gold (Season 19, 2024)

The death of 17-year-old dancer Emily Gold in September 2024 sent shockwaves through the AGT fanbase, marking one of the most immediate and tragic losses following a contestant's appearance on the show.

• Full Name: Emily Gold
• AGT Season: Season 19 (2024)
• Talent: Dancer (part of a high school cheer and dance team)
• Date of Birth: c. 2007
• Date of Death: September 13, 2024
• Cause of Death: Suicide
• Significance: Gold was a Los Osos High School dancer who had just weeks prior received a standing ovation for her performance on the NBC talent show. Her passing sparked a crucial conversation about mental health awareness and the support systems available to young, high-achieving performers.

Kabir "Kabeezy" Singh (Season 16, 2021)

Comedian Kabir Singh, known for his energetic and relatable stand-up, was a memorable semifinalist on Season 16. His sudden death in December 2024 was a major blow to the comedy world and the AGT family.

• Full Name: Kabir "Kabeezy" Singh
• AGT Season: Season 16 (2021 Semifinalist)
• Talent: Stand-up Comedian
• Date of Birth: c. 1985
• Date of Death: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
• Cause of Death: Suspected natural causes. He was found deceased in his sleep at his Bay Area home. Authorities noted he had a history of health concerns and were awaiting toxicology results to confirm the exact cause of death.
• Significance: Singh was a beloved figure in the comedy circuit, and his AGT run cemented his status as a nationally recognized talent. His death at the age of 39 was a reminder of the often-unseen health battles faced by performers.

Remembering Other Beloved AGT Stars Who Passed Away

The history of America's Got Talent is dotted with the memories of other extraordinary individuals who left an indelible mark on the show before their untimely deaths. Their performances remain a testament to the power of talent and the human spirit.

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The Enduring Legacy of Nightbirde (Jane Marczewski)

Perhaps the most famous and emotionally resonant loss in AGT history is that of singer Jane Marczewski, better known by her stage name, Nightbirde. Her audition in Season 16, where she performed her original song "It's OK," became one of the most-watched and most-loved moments in the show's history.

• Full Name: Jane "Nightbirde" Marczewski
• AGT Season: Season 16 (2021)
• Talent: Singer/Songwriter
• Date of Death: February 19, 2022
• Cause of Death: Cancer (osteosarcoma), which had spread to her lungs, spine, and liver.
• Significance: Nightbirde's story of battling cancer while maintaining a positive outlook earned her the Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell. She had to withdraw from the competition due to her health, but her message of hope and resilience continues to inspire millions globally.

Neal E. Boyd: The Opera Singer Winner

The AGT family mourned the loss of a former champion, opera singer Neal E. Boyd, who won Season 3 in 2008. His powerful voice and humble demeanor made him a fan favorite.

• Full Name: Neal E. Boyd
• AGT Season: Season 3 (2008 Winner)
• Talent: Opera Singer
• Date of Death: June 10, 2018
• Cause of Death: Heart failure and kidney failure, compounded by a variety of serious health issues including liver disease.
• Significance: Boyd was the first opera singer to win the competition, paving the way for other classical acts. His victory was a defining moment in AGT history.

Other Memorable Contestants We Have Lost

The list of AGT stars who passed away too soon includes a diverse group of talented individuals who contributed to the rich tapestry of the show. Their brief time on the stage left a lasting impression on the audience and the judges.

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• Skilyr Hicks (Season 9, 2014): A young singer/songwriter who tragically passed away in December 2021 at the age of 23. Her cause of death was an overdose. She was remembered for her raw talent and powerful voice.
• Dr. Brandon Rogers (Season 12, 2017): A singing doctor who gained national attention for his phenomenal vocal talent. He died in a car accident in June 2017 before his audition was even aired, a profound loss for the AGT community.
• Tim Fort, AKA The Kinetic King (Season 6, 2011): Known for his elaborate and mesmerizing kinetic chain reaction performances. He passed away in 2016 after suffering a series of strokes.
• Bernie Barker (Season 1, 2006): The oldest male stripper to ever compete on AGT, known for his energetic and humorous routine. He passed away from prostate cancer in 2007.
• Francis Lee Strong (Season 2, 2007): A strongman known for his incredible feats of strength. He passed away in 2018.

The Lasting Impact of AGT's Tragic Deaths

The passing of these beloved America's Got Talent members underscores the human element of reality television. While the show is a platform for incredible talent, it also features real people with real struggles, whether they are battling health issues, mental health challenges, or unexpected accidents.

The recent deaths of young talents like Emily Gold and popular figures like Kabir Singh have brought renewed focus to the importance of support networks for performers, especially those who experience a sudden surge in public attention. The AGT community, including judges like Simon Cowell, has consistently expressed deep sorrow and offered tributes, recognizing that once a contestant steps onto that stage, they become part of a larger, enduring family.

Fans continue to honor the memory of these stars by revisiting their auditions and performances, ensuring that their talents and stories are not forgotten. The legacies of Nightbirde, Neal E. Boyd, and the other individuals on this list serve as a powerful reminder of the precious, fleeting nature of life and the lasting impact a single performance can have on the world.