Fans of the always popular "America's Got Talent" learned the tragic news of a popular contestant on December 8, 2021. Skilyr Hicks, who auditioned on the talent search back in 2013, was "found lifeless in the home of a friend." TMZ broke the news, speaking with Skilyr's mother Jodi.  The exact circumstances of her death are still unknown to the family, Jodi told TMZ her daughter battled with mental health issues, including depression and substance abuse. She also says Skilyr was loved by her family and 4 siblings -- using her music to help people in need. Jodi says, "She will live on through her music."

In 2013 the judging panel was made up of Howard Stern, Heidi Klum, Mel B, and Howie Mande. Skilyr's audition featured interview excerpts from Jodi who accompanied her daughter to the big audition, as Hicks was only 14-years-old at the time. Skilyr, who lost her dad, was inspired to write a song for him. Her story and talent brought me to tears.

Hicks earned four yeses from the judges and made it through to the next round but was eliminated just before the live shows in New York City.

Sadly, Hicks had made headlines several times in recent years but it was unrelated to her music.

She was arrested in November of 2018 in connection with underage drinking and intoxication in Ohio that was linked to an incident that occurred a month earlier, TMZ previously reported.

She also faced domestic violence charges in April of 2017 as she was accused of assaulting three family members while intoxicated, according to the outlet.

Tributes to Skilyr Hicks have begun to pour in.