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The Ohio woman whose America’s Got Talent audition captivated and inspired audiences has dropped out of the competition series.
Jane Marczewski, 30, of Zanesville, who performs as “Nightbirde,” delivered a heartfelt rendition of her original song “It’s OK” when she auditioned for the show. She also opened up about her ongoing battle with cancer.
“Last time I checked, I had some cancer in my lungs, in my spine and in my liver,” Nightbirde told the panel of celebrity judges before singing for them. She added after her performance: “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.”
Nightbirde’s heartfelt and authentic performance earned her an emphatic golden buzzer slam from Simon Cowell, sending her on to the live shows.
On Monday (August 2), however, Nightbirde made an announcement on Instagram. She wrote, in part:
“Since my audition, my health has taken a turn for the worse and the fight with cancer is demanding all of my energy and attention. I am so sad to announce that I won’t be able to continue forward on this season of AGT. Life doesn’t always give breaks to those that deserve it—but we knew that already.”
Nightbirde went on to thank fans for their support, assuring them that she’s “planning my future, not my legacy.”
In only about two hours, the Instagram post had garnered nearly 13,000 comments from fans sending prayers and well wishes. They assured Nightbirde that, as far as they’re concerned, “You already won.”
Read Nightbirde’s full statement here:
Watch her powerful America’s Got Talent audition here: