America’s Got Talent” Sensation Alice Tan Ridley Dies at 72 – Gabourey Sidibe’s Final Goodbye Will Break Your Heart

​Alice Tan Ridley, the soulful singer known for her powerful performances on America’s Got Talent and as the mother of Oscar-nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe, passed away on March 25, 2025, in New York City at the age of 72. Her family announced her death in an obituary, though no cause was disclosed. ​

Born on December 21, 1952, in Charles Junction, Georgia, Ridley was the seventh of eight children. She moved to New York after high school, earned her teaching license, and worked as a special education teacher in Brooklyn. Following her divorce from Ibnou Sidibe, she pursued a singing career, performing in venues like Harlem’s Cotton Club and subway stations, where she was discovered by manager Dvir Assouline. ​

Ridley gained national attention in 2010 when she became a semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent, captivating audiences with renditions of songs like Etta James’ “At Last” and Gladys Knight’s “Midnight Train to Georgia.” She also appeared on Showtime at the Apollo (2005) and 30 Seconds to Fame (2002), winning $25,000. Her screen credits include the documentary Rize and the film Heights. In 2016, she released her debut album, Never Lost My Way. ​

Ridley retired from singing in 2018 after being diagnosed with dementia. She is survived by her children, Gabourey and Ahmed Sidibe, her grandchildren, twins Cooper and Maya, and several siblings.