Photo by Trae Patton/NBC
Jane Marczewski, more popularly known as Nightbirde, passed away due to cancer after battling it for four years.
Her family sent a statement to USA Today.
It says, “We, her family, are devastated by her passing and unimaginable loss. Many remember her from America’s Got Talent, where she performed her song ‘It’s OK’ and inspired millions of people around the globe with her messages of faith and never giving up.”
The family adds, “Those who knew her, enjoyed her larger-than-life personality and sense of humor. She had a witty joke for every occasion – even if the joke was on her. Her lasting legacy will be the gift of hope she gave to so many through her music and the strength she found in Jesus.”
Nightbirde went viral last year when her audition at America’s Got Talent got a golden buzzer from judge Simon Cowell.
She sang the original song “It’s OK,” which details her recent struggles. Nightbirde revealed that she was battling cancer in her lung, spine, and liver.
Watch her audition below:
During her audition, she said, “I’m so much more than the bad things that happen to me.” Afterward, she shared, “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.”
Cowell responded, “Your voice is stunning. Absolutely stunning. And I agree with what Howie [Mandel] said about authenticity. There was something about that song, the way you almost casually told us what you’re going through. There have been some great singers this year. … I’m not going to give you a yes. I’m going to give you something else.”
Nightbirde also shared that she has a 2% chance of survival “but 2% isn’t 0%. Two percent is something and I wish people knew how amazing it is.”
Midway through the season, Nightbirde had to withdraw from the show because of her health. On Instagram, she said, “Life doesn’t always give breaks to those that deserve it – but we knew that already.”
WheninManila.com sends its condolences to Nightbirde’s family.
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