4 Tragic Deaths Of America's Got Talent Contestants That Shocked Fans (2022–2024)

The bright lights and high-stakes drama of *America's Got Talent* (AGT) often mask the personal struggles faced by its performers. In recent years, the AGT family has been hit by a wave of tragic losses, leaving judges, production, and millions of viewers mourning the untimely deaths of several beloved contestants. The most recent and heartbreaking case involves a Season 19 dancer who passed away in September 2024, just weeks after her powerful audition aired. The news of these untimely passings, especially the most current one from late 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of life and the mental health crises that can affect even those who shine brightest on the world's biggest stage. This article pays tribute to the remarkable lives and talents of the AGT contestants who have tragically passed away in the last few years, focusing on the fresh and most up-to-date information available as of December 2025.

In Memoriam: The Lives and Legacies of Lost AGT Stars (2022–2024)

The following list details the biographies, AGT appearances, and circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths of the most recently departed contestants, all of whom left an indelible mark on the show and its audience.

1. Emily Gold (Season 19, 2024)

• Full Name: Emily Gold
• Age at Death: 17
• Date of Death: September 13, 2024
• Cause of Death: Suicide
• AGT Season: Season 19 (2024)
• Talent: Dancer and cheerleader, performing with the Los Osos High School dance team
• Impact: Gold’s passing occurred just weeks after her audition aired, where her team received a standing ovation from the judges. Her death brought immense attention to the mental health pressures faced by young performers.

2. Kabir Singh (Season 16, 2021)

• Full Name: Kabir "Kabeezy" Singh
• Age at Death: 39
• Date of Death: 2024
• Cause of Death: Suspected natural causes. He was found dead in his sleep, and authorities noted he had a history of health issues, including a congenital heart condition.
• AGT Season: Season 16 (2021)
• Talent: Stand-up Comedian
• Impact: Known for his high-energy, observational comedy, Singh was a fan favorite who made it to the Semifinals. His death was a shock to the comedy community, who remembered him as a generous and hilarious performer from the Bay Area.

3. Zuri Craig (Season 10, 2015)

• Full Name: Zuri Craig
• Age at Death: 44
• Date of Death: October 21, 2022
• Cause of Death: The specific cause was not immediately disclosed by his family, who announced his passing on social media.
• AGT Season: Season 10 (2015)
• Talent: Singer, as part of the duo The CraigLewis Band, who were finalists in their season.
• Impact: Zuri Craig and his partner, Jeffrey Lewis, impressed the judges, including Simon Cowell, with their powerful vocal performances, finishing as finalists. Beyond AGT, Craig was also known for his work in multiple Tyler Perry stage productions.

4. Jane "Nightbirde" Marczewski (Season 16, 2021)

• Full Name: Jane Marczewski
• Age at Death: 31
• Date of Death: February 19, 2022
• Cause of Death: Cancer (Osteosarcoma), which she battled publicly.
• AGT Season: Season 16 (2021)
• Talent: Singer-songwriter, famous for her original song "It's OK".
• Impact: Nightbirde's audition is one of the most memorable in AGT history. She received the Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell after delivering an inspirational performance despite her terminal cancer diagnosis. Her mantra, "You can't wait until life isn't hard anymore before you decide to be happy," resonated globally, making her an enduring symbol of hope and resilience.

The AGT Family's Response: Tributes and Mental Health Awareness

The deaths of these talented individuals have consistently prompted an outpouring of grief and formal tributes from the *America's Got Talent* community. The show’s official social media channels, as well as judges like Simon Cowell, have often shared messages of condolence and remembrance, highlighting the contestants' unique talents and contributions to the show. The tragic loss of Emily Gold, in particular, has reignited critical conversations about the intense pressure placed on young performers in the entertainment industry and the crucial need for robust mental health support. While the show itself is a platform for dreams, the reality of sudden fame, intense scrutiny, and the competitive environment can be overwhelming. The passing of a Season 19 contestant so close to the show's airing has made this issue impossible to ignore, forcing a spotlight onto the resources available to those who audition and compete.

Why These Losses Resonate So Deeply with AGT Viewers

The bond between AGT contestants and the audience is often deeper than in other reality shows. AGT is built on showcasing ordinary people with extraordinary talents and, more importantly, inspiring stories. When a contestant shares a vulnerable part of their life—whether it is a battle with cancer like Nightbirde, a lifelong dream like Zuri Craig, or the simple joy of performance like Emily Gold—viewers feel a personal connection. The public nature of these tragic passings amplifies the shock. When a performer who was just seen smiling and receiving praise on national television is suddenly gone, it creates a jarring emotional disconnect. This is why the tributes and remembrances from the judges and fellow contestants are so vital; they help the audience process the loss and celebrate the fleeting, but powerful, impact each star had. The stories of these individuals—the comedian, the dancer, the singer, and the vocal powerhouse—will forever be etched into the history of *America's Got Talent*.

Looking Ahead: The Enduring AGT Legacy

The continuing success of *America's Got Talent* is a testament to the human desire for inspiration and entertainment. However, the tragic events of 2022–2024 serve as a solemn reminder that behind every performance is a person with a complex life outside of the spotlight. The AGT community, including the production team, judges, and viewers, continues to honor the memory of those who have passed by celebrating their talent and advocating for greater awareness and support for mental and physical health issues. The legacy of contestants like Emily Gold, Kabir Singh, Zuri Craig, and Jane "Nightbirde" Marczewski is not just in their auditions or final performances, but in the impact their stories had on millions. They remind us that the greatest talent is often the ability to persevere and inspire, even when facing unimaginable challenges.