American Idol runner-up Willie Spence has died.
According to local reports, the 23-year-old reality star was involved in a car accident in Tennessee and died from his injuries. The tragic news comes just one year after his final appearance on American Idol.
Katharine McPhee, who performed a duet with Spence during his season 19 appearance, shared the sad news on her Instagram Story.
"I received very tragic news tonight," she wrote above a video of her and Spence. "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."
Katharine added a series of broken-heart emojis and shared the last video Willie had posted, which shows him singing a Christian song in a car.
She added: "He posted this right before the accident," with a crying face emoji.
Fans have already flooded the post with comments, mourning Willie's tragic accident. One person wrote: "Omg I am so at a loss for words. Not you Willie! Wow… Rest in Paradise, king."
Another said: "Wow ! Rest easy bro," with a third fan adding: "Wowww my heart really hurts! May you rest in paradise Willie. Such a star! And a sweet soul! You will be missed!"
"This HURTS !!!!!! R.I.P. Willie I can’t even deal yo!! Sending Prayers and Love to Mama Spence, his father and Family," added another mourner.
Film producer Randall Emmett also paid tribute to his “friend” on his Instagram Story.
"My heart is broken and my prayers go out to his family," he wrote alongside a picture of the singer.
"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."
During the season 19 finale of American Idol, Willie sang Georgia on My Mind, A Change is Gonna Come and Stand Up.
He was signed to Red Label Records and had supported famous singers such as Leona Lewis.
Calling himself a "star in the making" on Instagram, Willie continued to thrill followers with regular singing videos and had a November 2022 tour planned for London.
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