“American Idol,” season 19 runner-up Willie Spence passed away on Tuesday as a result of injuries he received in an automobile accident. The show confirmed in a social media posting on Wednesday. He was 23.
Willie Spence was killed in a car accident in Tennessee on Tuesday October 11, 2022. According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the collision took place on I-24 east near Chattanooga at around 4 p.m. According to the accident report, Spence was operating a Jeep Cherokee when he veered off the road and struck a vehicle that was parked on the shoulder. The 68-year-old driver, Raymond Kresl, did not sustain any injuries.
On their official Instagram, American Idol posted the following: “We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence,” “He was a true talent who lit up every room he entered and will be deeply missed. We send our condolences to his loved ones.”
The judges for American Idol, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan, all responded with astonishment when he performed Rihanna’s “Diamonds” during his audition.
At the time, Spence told the judges, “I just want my voice to reach the globe and simply share my gift.” “Winning a Grammy, hopefully someday. I anticipate being there in five years.
Hundreds have posted on Willie’s official Instagram and Facebook,
Spence’s cousin posted a tribute on Facebook.
“To my lil’ cousin who was here a short while but made the biggest impact on people with his Beautiful smile, heart and your anointed voice. Yes “M ” Willie Spence we all know you were here because you impacted us all. An angel on Earth returned home to take you rest beloved you will be deeply missed and always remembered , your music will live forever. Please pray for our family. To my cousins Sharon and Willie, my aunt Ella. The Diamond in the sky has gone Home to his eternal rest. Our memories live on.”
Katharine McPhee Foster, who finished as the runner up on season five of “Idol” and performed a duet with Spence on season 19, posted news of the death to her Instagram story.
“Life is so unfair and nothing is ever promised,” she wrote. “God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you.”
Two beautiful versions below of Willie singing ‘Diamonds’.
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