11-Year-Old 'AGT' Violinist Who Beat Cancer Hopes to Be an 'Inspiration to Many Children'

America’s Got Talentis heading into the semifinals!

The competition on the NBC series is heating once again as contestants like violinist Tyler Butler-Figueroa up their acts to win the $1 million prize and headlining gigs in Las Vegas.

But win or lose, the 11-year-old has already made an impact on others.

“I hope to be an inspiration to many children,” the young star tells PEOPLE of his time onAGTthus far.

Trae Patton/NBC

Tyler was diagnosed with leukemia at 4½ years old and had been bullied for losing his hair during chemotherapy. He has been in remission for four years now.

“It felt great for her to say that,” the Raleigh, North Carolina, native tells PEOPLE.

Tyler has become a fan-favorite contestant on the show and someone whomCowell recently said“everyone will be rooting for.”

Cowell added, “He’s a great kid.”

But Tyler will have some tough competition in the semifinals against a fellow Golden Buzzer winner, singerKodi Lee.

In addition, they will face off with dance troupe Light Balance Kids (guest judge Ellie Kemper’s Golden Buzzer choice), singer Ansley Burns, singer Benicio Bryant, magician Eric Chien, comedian Jackie Fabulous, singer Robert Finley, comedian Greg Morton, hand-balancing trio Messoudi Brothers and the Ndlovu Youth Choir.

America’s Got Talentairs Tuesdays and Wednesdays (8 p.m. ET) on NBC.

source: people.com