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Douglas Today
By the People, for the People
Luke Bryan Still Feels Affected by American Idol Alum Willie Spence's Death
The country star opened up about the lasting impact of the season 19 runner-up's tragic passing.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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American Idol judge Luke Bryan spoke candidly about the 2022 death of season 19 runner-up Willie Spence, explaining that the tragedy continues to resonate with him more than three years on. Bryan, who is from a town near Spence's hometown, said he is often reminded of the late performer and the impact he had on the show.
Why it matters
Spence's death at the young age of 23 in a car crash hit particularly close to home for Bryan, who was moved by Spence's performances on Idol. The loss has reminded Bryan of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing those around him, especially fellow Idol alumni who have passed away.
The details
In an interview, Bryan said he would have 'cherished more moments' with Spence, who was from Douglas, Georgia, an hour from Bryan's hometown. 'That loss really affected me. From time to time, I'll see a clip of him singing and it breaks my heart for him and his family, and I can only imagine what his career might have been,' Bryan shared.
- Spence passed away in an October 2022 car crash at the age of 23.
- Bryan reflected on Spence's death in an interview published on March 6, 2026.
The players
Luke Bryan
A country music singer and American Idol judge who was moved by the performances of season 19 runner-up Willie Spence.
Willie Spence
The season 19 runner-up of American Idol who tragically passed away in a car crash in 2022 at the age of 23.
What they’re saying
“I would have cherished more moments with Willie Spence. That's a biggie to me—losing him and knowing how much he touched me in that room, in that space, watching him perform week in and week out. It was truly breathtaking.”
— Luke Bryan, American Idol Judge (Billboard)
The takeaway
Spence's death has left a lasting impact on Bryan, reminding him of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the special moments with those around him, especially fellow Idol alumni. The tragedy has highlighted the bittersweet nature of the show, where contestants can rise to fame but also face untimely ends.
