Neal E. Boyd, the opera singer who won America's Got Talent on NBC in 2008, is dead. He was 42 years old.
Sources revealed that the reality competition star was found unresponsive on Sunday, June 10, by his mother in their home in Sikeston, Missouri. EMS was immediately called, but he was confirmed dead on the spot.
The Scott County Coroner revealed to CNN that Boyd died of heart and kidney failure. He also had liver problems, the local coroner confirmed.
Neal Boyd's Short But Illustrious Career
The opera singer rose to fame after joining and winning Season 3 of America's Got Talent. His solid voice earned the respect of judges David Hasselhoff, Piers Morgan, and Sharon Osbourne.
While on the show, he performed and nailed songs such as "Somewhere" from the musical West Side Story and "Nessun Dorma."
After the competition, he was able to release his solo debut album titled My American Dream. In May, on his official page on Facebook, Boyd revealed to fans that he was working on a new album and asked his followers to help finance the project.
"We are finally about to start crowdfunding for the new album (EP) this month," he wrote. " I will take some time to write this year and record next year to give my voice time to heal, and train to make it even stronger."
He also gave fans an update regarding his physical therapy. The opera singer was involved in a near-fatal car accident in 2017.
At the time, he said he was working on new music that will explore his own experience recovering from the accident.
"I just sit there and think to myself what lyrics, what tone will inspire someone in my situation," he shared.
Boyd also attempted to secure a seat in the Missouri House of Representatives but was defeated twice.
Fans And Colleagues Pay Tribute To Neal Boyd
On a post on Instagram, America's Got Talent reached out to Boyd's family to offer their condolences.
"We are very saddened to hear that one of our AGT family members, Neal Boyd, has passed away," read the note. "Our hearts are with Neal's loved ones during this difficult time."
Morgan remembered the singer by posting a photo of him together with fellow judges on Twitter.
Very sad to hear that Neal Boyd, Season 3 winner of @AGT, has died at 42 from heart failure. Lovely guy with a wonderful voice. RIP. pic.twitter.com/ApmtO0o046 — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) June 11, 2018
Friends also sent out their love for the late singer on social media.
so heartbroken to learn of the tragic death of my friend and fellow contestant on AGT (Season 3), Neal E. Boyd. you are in my thoughts & prayers and will never be forgotten!! pic.twitter.com/m7NoyrbKYs — Kaitlyn Maher (@kaitlynmaher) June 11, 2018
I can't believe it is true! Heaven gained an amazing soul! You'll be missed my friend. Rest In Peace Neal Boyd!#nealboyd #agt #restinpeace pic.twitter.com/vYlsd0ae9V — Jennifer Carnell (@CarnellJennifer) June 11, 2018
My thoughts are with the family, friends and fans of 2008 @AGT winner Neal E. Boyd. I had the pleasure of touring with Neal on my second US tour in 2009. Gone too soon. — Paul Potts (@paulpottsmusic) June 12, 2018
Heartbroken to hear of the passing of #NealBoyd, the magnificent opera singer who won @AGT Season 3. Today in Heaven, he sings with the angels. Our prayers to his family. #RIP — Terry Fator (@terryfator) June 12, 2018
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