Photo: Getty Images
American Idol runner-up Willie Spence has died at the age of 23.
According to a news outlet in his hometown of Douglas, Georgia, the beloved singer “passed away due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Tennessee" on Tuesday (October 11).
Katharine McPhee, who performed a duet with Spence during his season 19 appearance, confirmed the news on her Instagram Story. “I received very tragic news tonight,” she wrote alongside a clip of her meeting the late contestant. “Sweet @williespenceofficial passed away in a car accident. Only 23 years old.”
McPhee continued, “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.”
Hours before his passing, Spence shared a video of him singing on Instagram. “Lord you are my hiding place”🎤🥺," he captioned the clip.
In 2021, Spence immediately became an Idol stand-out with his initial audition, performing “Diamonds” by Rihanna. He quickly became a fan- and judge-favorite, making his way to the season 19 finale, where he sang “Georgia on My Mind,” “A Change is Gonna Come,” and “Stand Up.”
After the competition, Spence went on to release an EP titled The Voice, and he was set to perform in London in November.
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