‘American Idol’ Contestants Who’ve Died: C.J. Harris & Show Alums Gone Too Soon

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January 16, 2023 11:18AM EST

The ‘American Idol’ family has not been without its tragedies over the years. Learn about Idol stars who died unexpectedly here.

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Former ‘American Idol’ Contestants Gone Too Soon: Show Alums Who Died

Former ‘American Idol’ Contestants Gone Too Soon: Show Alums Who Died — American Idol has hosted tons of talented people over the year. And while the show rocketed many people to fame, some of the talented singers from the competition passed away after their time in the spotlight. It’s tragic to learn how many young AI contestants died after their stints on the show, but it only reminds us how precious life really is.

In Oct. 2022 singer Willie Spence, left, was killed in a tragic car crash. The season 19 runner-up was only 23 years old.

Another Another Idol alum who passed away unexpectedly was season 7 contestant Michael Johns, right. The heart condition cardiomyopathy took his life in 2014, when he was 35.

Ready to learn more about the American Idol contestants who passed away too soon? See all the late talents here.

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C.J. Harris

C.J. Harris — C.J. Harris performs during the ‘American Idol’ finale in 2014. He was joined by Darius Rucker for his finale performance after finishing in 6th place on the show. C.J. died on Jan. 2023 after suffering an apparent heart attack. He was only 31 years old.

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Willie Spence

Willie Spence — Willie Spence died in a car accident while driving from Tennessee to Atlanta on Oct. 11, 2022. He was runner-up during season 23 of Idol, known for a soulful voice that Lionel Richie called “a religious experience.”

American Idol mourned Willie in a statement, which said, “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.”

Judge Katy Perry also sent a message to Willie, posting, “I love you Willie… purest soul. Sing with the angels my darling.”

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Nikki McKibbin

Nikki McKibbin — Season one contestant Nikki McKibbin, seen here in 2002, died in Nov. 2020 at 42 years old after complications from a brain aneurysm. She took third place during American Idol’s inaugural season in 2002, right behind superstar Kelly Clarkson and runner-up Justin Guarini.

After competing on Idol, she appeared on reality shows like Fear Factor, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, and Bravo’s Battle of the Network Reality Stars. She would also return to the singing competition in 2014 when her son Tristen Langley auditioned.

Host Ryan Seacrest remembered Nikki, saying, “Nikki was a superstar the moment she walked into auditions – she set the bar high with her talent and memorable stage presence. It was an honor to watch her grow and inspire millions of people. Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and fans who are grieving this tragic loss.”

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Leah Labelle

Leah Labelle — Leah Labelle, here in 2012, died in a Jan. 2018 car accident after her husband Rasual Butler lost control of their car while driving through Studio City, Calif. Leah, who competed on season 3 of Idol in 2004, was 31 when she died. She and Rasual, a former Chicago Bull, are survived by the NBA alum’s daughter Raven Butler.

Paula Abdul remembered Leah in a tweet after her death. She wrote, “[Leah] was beautiful & had the voice of an ANGEL. She was my wild card pick on [American Idol.] I’m heartbroken to know that she & her husband [Rasual] have passed away. What a horrible tragedy. I send my love and deepest condolences to her family and friends.”

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Rickey Smith

Rickey Smith — Rickey Smith, here in 2003, was killed in a May 2016 car accident in Oklahoma City. The season 2 finalist was 36 years old.

Clay Aiken tweeted about his season 2 colleague at the time, writing, “Suffice it to say my heart is truly breaking today. Heaven’s choir has a new beautiful voice. I love you and will miss you, Rickey.”

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Joanne Borgella

Joanne Borgella — Joanne Borgella, here in 2013, died in 2014 after a years-long battle with endometrial cancer. The season 7 AI contestant was 32.

Her family shared the somber news via Facebook, writing, “To God be the glory! With heavy hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Joanne. On Saturday, October 18, 2014, at 5:45AM, Joanne Borgella Ramirez was called by the Lord to heaven.

“At an early age, Joanne made a choice to serve and trust the Lord; and since her diagnosis over a year ago, Joanne made a choice to also be a fighter and share her journey with the world. Her faith, courage and strength were unshaken throughout every obstacle she encountered. Although our family is suffering with this great loss, we find comfort in the closeness Joanne shared with the Lord. We know her spirit still shines and will continue to live on in heaven.”

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Michael Johns

Michael Johns — Michael Johns, seen here in 2013, was a season 7 competitor on American Idol. He died in August 2014 after complications from a blood clot in his ankle, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He was 35.

Simon Cowell shared the news. Shocked, he tweeted, “I just heard the very sad news that Michael Johns has passed away. A truly great guy. Rest in peace Michael.”

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Haley Smith

Haley Smith — Haley Smith was only 26 when she died in 2019, after a crash on her motorcycle in Millinocket, Maine. She was a contestant on season 11, who auditioned in Aspen with a rendition of Rufus and Chaka Kahn’s “Tell Me Something Good” for judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Steven Tyler.

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Marque ‘Tate’ Lynche

Marque ‘Tate’ Lynche — Marque ‘Tate’ Lynche, seen during his season 3 run on the show, died in Dec. 2015. The singer reportedly died of acute and chronic alcoholism at just 34, per TMZ. Marque was also on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club with Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera from 1993 to 1995.

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