Tragic Loss of America’s Got Talent Contestant Emily Gold
Content Warning: The following article contains discussions of suicide.
America’s Got Talent Season 19 has been marred by tragedy with the passing of 17-year-old contestant Emily Gold. Emily, who was part of the Los Osos High School dance team, participated in the quarterfinals of the current season, which premiered on May 28. The team, comprised of students aged 15 to 18, impressed judges Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, Sofia Vergara, and Simon Cowell with their auditions. Despite receiving high praise, including Simon Cowell’s comment on their “brilliant” performance, the team was eliminated during the live results show on August 14.
Emily Gold’s journey on America’s Got Talent ended with her untimely death on September 13. The San Bernardino Coroner’s Office confirmed that Emily died by suicide. This tragic news came just a month after her last performance on the show. Further details are currently unavailable, but a full autopsy is expected to provide more insight into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Remembering Emily Gold
Los Osos Dance Team’s Tribute
The Los Osos Varsity Dance team paid tribute to Emily on Instagram, describing her as a “beautiful, loving, and kind” individual who embodied the team’s core values of strength, kindness, compassion, and humility. They expressed their profound grief, stating they miss her “more than words can ever express.” The Instagram post featured heartfelt messages and videos capturing Emily’s joyful moments with her teammates.
Community Support for Emily’s Family
In response to Emily’s passing, a GoFundMe campaign titled “Community Support for the Gold Family’s Loss” was launched to assist her family with expenses during this difficult period. Initiated by Jeanette Fierro, the fundraiser aims to raise $60,000, and as of now, nearly $38,000 has been contributed by almost 600 donors.
Implications for America’s Got Talent and Los Osos Dance Team
Potential Tribute on AGT
Emily’s death is a significant loss for the Los Osos dance team, her high school, and the community of Rancho Cucamonga, California. With America’s Got Talent Season 19 still airing and two episodes remaining, there is potential for NBC and the show’s producers to honor Emily on-air. Whether this will involve a tribute from host Terry Crews and the judges or an end-of-episode tag remains uncertain.
Community Mourning and Support
Emily’s family and friends are currently mourning her loss. The GoFundMe aims not only to reach but exceed its $60,000 goal to alleviate the financial burden of funeral expenses. In these trying times, it is crucial to remember that suicide is preventable. Anyone experiencing similar struggles is encouraged to seek help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
If you or someone you know is in need, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visit 988lifeline.org.
America’s Got Talent airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EDT on NBC.
Sources: Deadline, Los Osos Varsity Dance/Instagram, Jeanette Fierro/GoFundMe
