Jane Marczewski, known by her stage name Nightbirde, captivated millions with her incredible voice and indomitable spirit when she appeared on America's Got Talent (AGT) in 2021. Her journey was one of resilience, hope, and unyielding positivity, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Diagnosed with terminal cancer, Nightbirde became an inspiring figure, not just for her talent, but for the way she chose to live her life amidst adversity.
Source: NBC
Nightbirde's audition on AGT quickly became iconic. Performing her original song, “It’s OK,” she earned the coveted Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell. Her performance moved the judges and audience to tears, not just because of her vocal talent, but because of her message: “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.” Her courage in the face of a devastating prognosis—only a 2% chance of survival—resonated deeply, making her one of the most memorable contestants in the show's history.
However, Nightbirde’s journey began long before her viral audition. Originally from Ohio, she pursued a career in music while simultaneously battling recurring bouts of cancer. Her optimism and faith never wavered, even as her health deteriorated. Throughout her illness, she documented her experiences on social media, sharing raw reflections that inspired her growing community of followers. Her positive outlook was reflected not only in her music but in her life philosophy, emphasizing finding beauty in the smallest of victories.
Source: NBC
Unfortunately, due to her worsening health, Nightbirde was forced to withdraw from AGT before reaching the finals, but her impact was already profound. Her withdrawal was met with an outpouring of support from fans, judges, and fellow contestants alike. Even after stepping away from the competition, she remained active on social media, providing updates and messages of encouragement to her followers until her passing on February 19, 2022, at the age of 31.
Nightbirde’s legacy continues to inspire. The Nightbirde Foundation was established by her family to support young women battling breast cancer, ensuring her message of hope lives on. Her influence extended even beyond her time on AGT; during the 2022 season, performances and tributes by contestants highlighted her enduring presence in the hearts of many. Notably, her song “It’s OK” has been covered by other artists, cementing it as a timeless anthem of resilience.
In a world where despair often feels overwhelming, Nightbirde’s journey offers a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. She showed us that even in the darkest times, it’s possible to find light, hope, and joy—no matter how fleeting. Nightbirde’s story is not just one of a talented singer, but of a woman who embraced life fully, teaching others that “2% is not 0%,” and that sometimes, it’s the smallest glimmer of hope that can illuminate the darkest paths.
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