Willie Spence, who shot to fame as the runner-up on American Idol in 2021, has died tragically in a car accident in Tennessee.
The exact cause of death is not known but he’s reported to have died on Tuesday from injuries sustained in the accident.
He wowed fans and judges alike with his recital of Rihanna’s ‘Diamonds’ in season 19 of American Idol, and received endorsements from all three of the panel – Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
Willie Spence: Americal idol
In the final he sang ‘Georgia on My Mind’, ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’ and ‘Stand Up’, and was just pipped by Chayce Beckham.
However, his performance still resonated with viewers and that was reflected in the outpouring of emotion following the news of his death.
Singer Katherine McPhee performed a duet with Spence on the show and posted a video of the pair singing together on Instagram.
Willie Spence dies, aged 23
“I received very tragic news tonight,” she wrote. “Sweet @williespenceofficial passed away in a car accident. Only 23 years old. Life is so unfair and nothing is ever promised.
“God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you.”
“My heart is broken and my prayers go out to his family,” wrote film producer Randall Emmett.
I was lucky to have him sing for me live at my home and other events, I will miss you my friend. I know you touched so many of us. I’m heart broken.”
More information about his death is expected to come out in due course.
