in

In the Season 21 opener, singer Kya Monee’ pays tribute to late ‘American Idol’ runner-up Willie Spence

Willie Spence
Willie Spence

On the Season 21 debut of “American Idol,” contestant Kya Monee’ returned to the audition room to pay tribute to her late friend and former competitor Willie Spence.

Monee’ was paired with Spence, who was murdered in a vehicle accident in Tennessee in October 2022, as duet partners during Hollywood week when they performed together on Season 19 of “Idol” in 2021.

American Idol' premiere: Kya Monee' honors late runner-up Willie Spence | CNN

Monee’ told judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie in the audition room on Sunday that she and Spence “developed a very, very strong bond” and that she’s still “trying to cope” with the loss.

“Dad was meant to be here with me today for my audition,” Monee’ explained, adding, “it’s just extremely hard not to have that support anymore, but I know he would want me to be here and keep trying.”

American Idol star Willie Spence shared video singing in car just before dying at 23

Monee’ sang a heartfelt rendition of “I’m Here” from the Broadway musical “The Color Purple,” revealing that she and Spence chose the song jointly.

“That’s how you sing through sobbing,” Perry explained after the show. Perry went on to say that while everyone is mourning Spence’s death, the judges “feel bonded together” because Monee’ was genuine “just as he was.”

Willie Spence, American Idol's Season 19 Runner-Up, Dead at 23

 

The judges advanced Monee’ to the next round while Spence’s performance of Rihanna’s “Diamonds” played in the background. “Willie, thank you for not letting me give up,” the singer said as she wiped her tears and smiled as she grasped her golden ticket. This is meant for you.”

Spence auditioned for “Idol” in 2021 with “Diamonds,” which he sang in a 2017 video that went viral. Spence advanced through each round and finished as Season 19’s runner-up to champion Chayce Beckham.

American Idol star Willie Spence dies after car accident, aged 23 | Marca

 

Richie was heard saying Spence was a “beautiful angel” and a “beacon of what ‘American Idol’ is all about” during a touching tribute montage during the Season 21 launch on Sunday. To end the sad program, a title card with the inscription “In loving memory of Willie Spence 1999-2022” was displayed on screen.

What do you think?

Written by Sarah Joseph

Hi, fellow readers! So glad you found my little writing nook on the internet. I am a freelance writer, occasionally moonlighting as a digital marketer as well. I love to read, mostly focusing on high-fantasy and thrillers. Here, on Geekybar, I share my thoughts and views on breaking and recent news form all around the world. Oh, and I LOVE covering all the celeb gossips so stick around for some really interesting stuff!

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings

Richard Belzer

Richard Belzer, stand-up comedian and TV detective, died at the age of 78

All Quiet on the Western Front

‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ wins seven BAFTAs in 2023, including best picture