'AGT' Singer, 15, Cries After Performance for 'Hero' Father: 'I've Been Scared He Won't Come Home'

After receiving judgeHeidi Klum‘s golden buzzer during theAmerica’s Got Talentauditions, Makayla Phillips was back on stage, this time, with a special tribute. The breakout star, 15, dedicated her quarterfinals performance on Tuesday to her father Todd, who is a Fire Captain at Mecca Station #40 in Riverside, California. “My dad is absolutely my hero because he’s a firefighter,” Makayla said before belting out Julia Michaels’ 2017 hit “Issues.” “His job is so incredibly tough, there have been days where I’ve been scared my dad won’t come home,” the Canyon Lake native explained.

'AGT' Star Jane 'Nightbirde' Marczewski's Family Is 'Devastated by Her Passing': 'Unimaginable Loss'

Jane “Nightbirde” Marczewski’s family is remembering her life and legacy. “Many remember her fromAmerica’s Got Talent, where she performed her song ‘It’s OK’ and inspired millions of people around the globe with her messages of faith and never giving up. Those who knew her, enjoyed her larger-than-life personality and sense of humor,” the family’s statement continued. “She had a witty joke for every occasion — even if the joke was on her.

'AGT' Star Nightbirde Dead at 31 After Cancer Battle: 'We Love You,' Says Terry Crews

Nightbirde.Photo: Trae Patton/NBC Nightbirde, anAmerica’s Got Talentstandout and fan favorite on season 16, has died. She was 31. The Zanesville, Ohio native, whose real name is Jane Marczewski, died on Sunday, according toTMZ. “We are saddened to learn about @_nightbirde’s Passing. Our Condolences goes to her Closest Family & Friends in such of This difficult time. We Love you, Nightbirde,” host Terry Crews shared onInstagramMonday. “We love you. Rest in peace @nightbirde,” judge Heidi Klum shared on her Instagram Story.

'AGT' Will See 36 Acts Perform During Season 16 Live Shows — Including 1 Wildcard Chosen by Viewers!

America’s Got Talent season 15.Photo: Trae Patton/NBC The countdown is on forAmerica’s Got Talent’s live shows. Along with America’svote, the contestants — including singers, dancers, comedians, magicians and more — will be competing for the chance to win $1 million and the opportunity to perform atAmerica’s Got Talent Las Vegas LIVE, which debuts at Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on Nov. 4. For the first time ever, audiences will have the chance to choose which act will take the final slot in theseason 16live shows withAGT: America’s Wildcard— a one-hour special hittingPeacockon Tuesday.

'AGT' Winner Kodi Lee Is 'Considering' Competing on 'Champions' Spinoff':' What's Next for Him

Kodi Leewon the hearts ofAmerica’s Got Talentfans — and took home the $1 million prize. The season 14 winner, 22, and his mother Tina, who was instrumental in his victory, tells PEOPLE that the competition was truly a life-changing opportunity. “It was unbelievable,” Kodi recalls of hearing host Terry Crews announce his name as the winner. Kodi was born with optic nerve hypoplasia and diagnosed with autism at age 4. “Without performing, he wouldn’t be who he is today.