The family of a teenage cheerleader who died just weeks after getting a standing ovation on America's Got Talent has shared a heartbreaking tribute.
Emily Gold, 17, from California, tragically took her own life on Friday night, with her devastated family sharing the news on her Instagram account on Sunday.
In May, Emily and her teammates from the Los Osos High School dance troupe had impressed the judges as they performed in the quarterfinals of America's Got Talent, even getting a standing ovation from Simon Cowell.
Following her tragic death, her family shared their devastation at the loss of the talented teen.
Announcing her death on Instagram, her parents and brother wrote: "Dear friends. With sadness beyond measure we must tell you all that we lost our beautiful Emily on September 13th.
"Our hearts have a hole the size of the universe right now. The outpouring of love and support we are receiving shows us how many lives that angel touched and lifted up, and it is what will help us through the most difficult time of our lives. Thank you all so much for your love and support."
They added that details of a service would be announced once it has been arranged.
Emily's brother, Alex, also shared a heartbreaking comment on the post, writing: "i love you sis i’m going to do it all for you ill always look for you in the sky."
The Los Osos High School Varsity Dance Team also shared a tribute to Emily, featuring videos of her with her teammates.
They wrote: "It is with such a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beautiful, kind, and loving Emily Gold, Senior and Varsity Dance Captain.
"Emily has always embodied every aspect of our core team values through her strength, commitment, kindness, compassion, and the most humble heart.
“She will be remembered as a leader, role model, friend and sister to her teammates.”
They ended the post by writing: "Our sweet sweet Emily — We love you endlessly and miss you more than words can ever express. Everything we do is for you, our beautiful angel."
Emily and her team had achieved high praise from AGT's head judge Simon Cowell after their performance on the show, as the 64-year-old told them: "It was absolutely brilliant.
"What I loved about this was first of all the energy. I think what I just saw is everything a great school should be doing, which is encouraging talent and friendship."
The troupe was eliminated in the quarterfinals in August, but Simon told them: "I don’t know anything about dance, however, that to me was an event."
Despite not making it to the final, Emily had shared fond memories of taking part, writing in one post that it was "the most incredible experience."
Our thoughts remain with Emily's family and loved ones at this heartbreaking time.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
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