Grace VanderWaal, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter who rose to fame after winning "America's Got Talent" in 2016, is mourning the loss of her mother, Tina VanderWaal, who passed away on October 20, 2025, following a 17-month battle with breast cancer. Tina was 53 years old.
Grace shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, posting a series of photos with her mother and expressing her profound grief: "Can't yet find the words. I love you mommy. So much. I wake up and want to call you. I don't know how to move forward without you. I love you." (eonline.com)
Tina's husband, Dave VanderWaal, also paid tribute to his late wife on Facebook, highlighting her resilience and positive outlook throughout her illness: "She was a fighter to the end of her long, 17-month battle with cancer, always finding a positive outlook no matter what—for herself and, even more importantly, for others facing the same difficult journey." He described Tina as "the heart of our family, filling our lives with creativity, laughter, and love." (eonline.com)
Tina documented her cancer journey on social media, sharing updates and milestones. In September, she posted about completing her second round of radiation, expressing hope and determination: "Radiation 2 done…8 more to go!" (eonline.com)
The VanderWaal family has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists. Actress Selma Blair commented on Grace's post, saying, "I am so so sorry," while singer Lauren Jauregui offered, "sending you so much love angel." (eonline.com)
Tina is survived by her husband Dave and their three children: Jakob, 26; Olivia, 25; and Grace, 21. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they grieve the loss of their beloved wife and mother.