Willie Spence is believed to have died in a car crash in Tennessee (Picture: ABC)
The American Idol family has paid tribute to former contestant Willie Spence after his death.
It was announced that Spence had died at the age of 23 following a car accident in Tennessee.
Spence was best known for appearing on season 19 of the popular talent competition where he auditioned in front of Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan singing a rendition of Rihanna’s ballad Diamonds.
After hearing the news, the American Idol team said in an Instagram post: ‘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.’
Dark Horse singer Perry also paid tribute and wrote: ‘I love you Willie… purest soul. Sing with the angels my darling.’
Ryan Seacrest said he was ‘devastated’ by the news of Spence’s death (Picture: ABC via Getty Images)
Luke Bryan said Spence ‘lit up every room’ he walked into (Picture: ABC via Getty Images)
American Idol judge Katy Perry said Spence had the ‘purest soul’ (Picture: ABC via Getty Images)
American Idol host Ryan Seacrest shared a clip of Spence’s audition on Instagram and said: ‘Everybody on and off set loved him. @williespenceofficial you’ll be deeply missed.’
Bryan, who was a judge when Spence auditioned, also shared footage from that day and said: ‘Willie really did light up every room he walked into. He could change the mood instantly when he started singing. He will truly be missed.’
During his audition in 2021, Spence blew the audience away with his vocal talent and explained: ‘I do this for me, but not only for me, I do this for my family.
Spence appeared on season 19 of American Idol in 2021 (Picture: ABC via Getty Images)
‘They’ve always supported me, they’ve been there from the very beginning.’
Spence sailed through to the live shows, and famously performed alongside McPhee in one round.
He ended the competition in second place, with Chayce Beckham eventually taking the crown in a tense finale.
Despite not winning the show, the Never Be Alone singer went on to forge a career in the music industry and was due to perform in London next month.
Hours before his death, Spence posted his final video as he sang in a car, belting out a stunning rendition of You Are My Hiding Place.
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Spence’s family announced he had died with reports he was involved in a car accident.