What To Know
- Jeff Williams, a contestant on Season 21 of America’s Got Talent, has died ahead of the Live Shows.
- Williams was a member of the Jesse White Tumblers, a group that earned four yeses from the judges after their audition.
- Jesse White, the founder of the group, released a statement about Jeff’s death.
The Jesse White Tumblers received four yeses from the America’s Got Talent judges to move forward in the competition during the July 7 episode. But that same day, they also shared the devastating news that one of their group members had died.
Jesse White, the 92-year-old founder of the group, shared a statement about Jeff’s passing. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Jeff Williams,” he wrote on Instagram. “Jeff was a cherished member of the Jesse White Tumbling Team and a dedicated employee in the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. He was a kind, hardworking young man who touched many lives and deeply loved his family.
He continued, “My heartfelt condolences go out to Jeff’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. He will always be a part of the Jesse White Tumbling Team family, and he will be deeply missed.”
Trae Patton/NBC
Per ABC 7 Chicago, Jeff, who was 34 years old, died while driving a motorcycle and colliding with a car on the evening of July 6. He died at the scene after being thrown from the bike after the crash.
Jeff had been a member of the Chicago-based tumbling group for 20 years, according to the Chicago Tribune. He was a father to four children.
“He was just so kind to all of the youngsters,” team member Emmanuel McGhee told the Tribute. “He poured into their lives in a very positive way. Jeff will always be remembered for his infectious smile, his high energy, his positive energy.”
The Season 21 AGT Auditions continue with the July 14 episode. Once the Auditions conclude, the judges will deliberate and decide which acts will officially move onto the Live Shows (only the 10 who have Golden Buzzers are guaranteed a spot before deliberations). This year, there will also be a new Judges’ Callback Round, which will allow Mel B., Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and Simon Cowell to watch certain acts perform one more time before making their final decision.
America’s Got Talent, Season 21, Tuesdays, 8/7c, NBC