When did Preston Ward's daughter pass away? Sky Elements dedicate semifinal act to member’s late daughter on America's Got Talent semifinals

America's Got Talent (AGT) aired its latest episode on September 11, 2024. Sky Elements, a drone act group known for its intricate performances, returned to the semifinal stage with a moving tribute. Their act was dedicated to their chief drone pilot Preston Ward's late daughter, Briley Rose. She tragically passed away in 2020.

This heartfelt tribute stirred deep emotions among both, the judges and the audience. This act also stood out for its technical brilliance. Preston Ward highlighted the deep personal connection to the performance as he stated in a pre-recorded segment:

“This performance is definitely a love letter to my daughter.”

While Ward did not share specific details about Briley Rose’s passing, the tribute powerfully symbolized his grief and love, honoring her memory in a way that touched millions of viewers.

---

“I feel your presence in so many things” — Preston Ward's remembers his late daughter in America's Got Talent

For the unversed, Sky Elements group is known for delivering visually stunning and technically advanced displays. So far, the group has garnered attention for its use of drones to tell stories through synchronized formations, using the sky as its canvas.

During the America's Got Talent semifinals, Ward and his team crafted a tribute to his late daughter, Briley Rose. The performance featured symbolic elements such as butterflies, flowers, and a phoenix, with each representing different aspects of life, hope, and the afterlife. These symbols were chosen to represent Ward’s connection with his daughter and the enduring presence of her memory in his life.

In a pre-recorded segment shown earlier in the episode of America's Got Talent, Ward mentioned that performing in Pasadena held special significance for him and his daughter. He stated:

“what better place to tell the story of Briley, my rose, in Pasadena, the city of roses. Briley Rose, I feel your presence in so many things, and I know you are still with me.”

Reflecting on the deeply personal nature of the tribute, he shared the performance’s themes of remembrance, love, and hope. He said:

“The reminders of those we’ve lost are everywhere. You just have to keep your eyes open and look around. As long as you truly believe their presence is still with you, no one is ever really gone.

---

Judges' reaction to Sky Elements' performance

The emotional tribute by Sky Elements left a strong impression on the judges. Sofia Vergara was seen wiping away tears as the drones portrayed a father reaching out to a butterfly, which turned into a phoenix. She expressed her surprise at the impact of the performance on America's Got Talent, saying:

“Who knew that drones could make you so emotional? That was a surprise. That was so beautiful. Congratulations. What a beautiful, beautiful job.”

Heidi Klum echoed these sentiments, calling it a “beautiful tribute.” She shared how deeply the act resonated with everyone, saying:

“We all had, like, the most emotions and feelings for you. I just want to give you a big hug right now. Thank you for sharing that with us.”

Howie Mandel connected the performance to the September 11 anniversary, saying:

“We lost so much in America, and what a great 9/11 tribute. What a most emotional, beautiful moment.”

Simon Cowell was deeply moved by the act and struggled to express his thoughts. He said:

“That was, uh … That was, um — oh, gosh.”

---

The results show followed on Thursday, September 12, at 8 pm ET, where the fate of Sky Elements was revealed. Catch the next round of America's Got Talent on NBC.