Jane Markzewski, a singer known by her stage name Nightbirde, who earned a legion of followers after being a contestant on NBC's "America's Got Talent", died after a battle with cancer, with her family confirmed.
"We, his family, are devastated by his passing and unimaginable loss," the Markzewski family said in a statement provided by NBC.
Markzewski battled cancer for four years and died on February 19, his family said.
The singer caught the attention of many after giving a groundbreaking audition on "America's Got Talent" last year, performing an original song called "It's OK". During her performance, she told the judges that she was battling cancer that had spread to her lungs, spine, and liver. He impressed Judge Simon Cowell with his positivity and determination.
"You can't wait until life is hard before you decide to be happy," she told the judges.
Cowell awarded Markzewski a coveted "Golden Buzzer", which advanced him to the next round of the competition.
She eventually had to drop out, but during a virtual interview aired on the show, Markzewski said that "it was great to see the world welcoming that song to its darkest night."
"I'm overwhelmed by this," she said, of the response to "It's OK."
"Your voice, your story and your message touched millions. Nightbird will always be a member of the 'AGT' family. Rest in Peace, Jane," the show said in a statement to CNN.
Host Terry Crews and judge Heidi Klum also paid tribute on their respective social media accounts.
His family said, "Those who knew him enjoyed his larger-than-life personality and sense of humor. He had a witty joke for every occasion—even if the joke was on him." "His lasting legacy will be the gift of hope that he gave to many through his music and the strength he found in Jesus. We thank everyone for their messages of love and support."