‘America’s Got Talent’ Cheerleader, 17, Dies Weeks After Getting Eliminated
Emily Gold, a member of the Los Osos High School dance team that competed on the current season of America’s Got Talent, died Friday (September 13). The cause of death was suicide.
In a statement issued by California Highway Patrol Public Information Officer Rodrigo Jimenez, Gold was found deceased on the highway after allegedly jumping from an overpass.
“When the officers arrived, they located a female, 17-year-old, who was struck by at least one other vehicle in the carpool lane on eastbound 210,” Jimenez said. “The female did succumb to her injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.”
The Los Osos dance team reacted to Gold’s death in a statement made to Instagram that remembered her for her “strength, commitment, kindness, compassion, and most humble heart.”
“She will be remembered as a leader, role model, friend, and sister to her teammates,” the statement continued. “Our sweet sweet Emily. We love you endlessly and miss you more than word can ever express. Everything we do is for you, our beautiful Angel.”
Emily Gold’s death comes just one month after she and her dance team competed in the America’s Got Talent quarterfinals.
The Los Osos High School dance team audition first aired in May and got mixed reviews from the judges. Howie Mandell and Heidi Klum said that they wish the choreography had been more impressive. After a “no” verdict from Howie, the remaining three judges voted to send the team through to the next round.
The dance troupe returned to the AGT stage in August for the quarterfinal round where they delivered a dynamic routine that received praise from the judges. Simon Cowell called it “a gigantic step up” from their previous performance.
But, ultimately, America didn’t vote for the group to advance in the competition.
In the wake of Emily Gold’s death, a GoFundMe account has been set up to help her family with expenses. To contribute, click HERE.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
