Simon Cowell has spoken about his emotional reaction to revisiting the Golden Buzzer moment of singer Nightbirde on a special episode of America's Got Talent. The episode, titled 'Simon's Favourite Golden Buzzers', aired on Tuesday and saw Cowell and host Terry Crews reflect on standout auditions from the show's history.
Cowell selected Nightbirde, whose real name was Jane Marczewski, as his favourite Golden Buzzer act from season 16. She performed her original song 'It's Okay' before her battle with cancer prevented her from continuing in the competition. Nightbirde died on February 19, 2022, at the age of 31.
Watching her audition again, Cowell admitted: 'I haven't been able to watch this since she passed.' He added: 'She was always optimistic. All she ever kept talking about was her music.' Both Cowell and Crews became visibly emotional during the segment.
Cowell recalled his final conversation with Nightbirde, saying: 'The last time I saw her, she did say what that moment meant to her. She knew how sick she was and she couldn't make the finals, but I think watching it back, it makes you feel hopeful.'
Fans also reacted emotionally on social media, with one writing: 'Got to hear Nightbirde again. I suddenly started crying, God rest her soul.' Another said: 'Full on sobbing. She really was and forever will be, number one. Rest in Peace.'
America's Got Talent airs on ABC in the US, with a UK release date yet to be announced.
