Mental health issues have been unfairly stigmatized and poorly understood for a long, long time. Many celebrities have eased that stigma by announcing that they were pausing their careers to restore their mental wellness. They include fan favorites like Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, tennis star Naomi Osaka, and Ariana Grande, per BuzzFeed. The latest artist to step back from her professional commitments for a while to replenish her emotional equilibrium is Grace VanderWaal. She won America's Got Talent in 2016 when she was 12 years old. Following the death of her mother last year from cancer, she knew that she needed some time off. Now, VanderWaal is on a very necessary break.
Videos by Wide Open Country
VanderWaal Announced She Is "Choosing Myself in This Moment"
The singer, 22, took to Instagram on Monday, March 9 to tell her fans about her plans. The caption said, "I apologize, sending love to all of you."
In a heartfelt, sincere message, she also wrote, "Hi everyone, it's been a bit. I'm happy to be back and talk to yall. Unfortunately I will not be going on the Natalie Jane tour due to mental health. I've been struggling for a while and am choosing myself in this moment. I love you Natalie and know you're going to kill it, and I'm sorry to anyone who's disappointed I love you so much and will be singing very soon. Thank you guys for understanding. Again so so much love. -G"
Her Mom Died in October 2025
Tina, 53, VanderWaal's mom, tragically passed away from cancer a mere 18 months after her diagnosis, per People. That is a huge trauma for her daughter to contend with. On October 21, 2025, VanderWaal wrote sorrowfully on Instagram, "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"
Many Voiced Their Hearty Support
VanderWaal's friends and fans wrote messages of love, compasion, and support on Instagram to bolster her spirits during this arduous time.
Carson Daly noted, "Mental Health is health. Wish more young artists would be as honest w themselves as you are being. Good on you"
From Natalie Jane came this. "Health comes first always!!!"
Another follower said this. "Take time for you. I left my job due to the loss of my mother. I tried but there were so many other things going on too and it was so hard. Many prayers for you."
