11 American Idol Alumni We Remember — Names, Dates and What Happened

News (2 / 1) 12.05.2026 15:06 / Torben

Leah LaBelle — A season 3 contestant, she and her husband Rasual Butler died Dec. 26, 2018, in a Los Angeles car crash; she was 31.

Rickey Smith — The season 2 finalist died May 6, 2016, at 36 after a wrong-way wreck reportedly caused by an allegedly drunk driver.

Marque "Tate" Lynch — Found dead Dec. 6, 2015, at 34; the New York City medical examiner cited acute and chronic alcoholism.

Joanne Borgella — A top-24 contestant from season 7, she died Oct. 18, 2014, at 32 after a battle with endometrial cancer.

Michael Johns — A season 7 finalist who died Aug. 1, 2014, at 35; his death was ultimately attributed to dilated cardiomyopathy.

Each artist is remembered by fans, family and fellow performers for the music and moments they shared on and off the Idol stage.