‘American Idol’ Contestant Freddie McClendon Honors Late Father with Emotional Audition

One American Idol hopeful is turning personal tragedy into a powerful tribute.

Freddie McClendon, a 19-year-old college student from South Carolina, captivated judges with his original song, You Never Loved Him, written in memory of his father, Davis McClendon. His audition wasn’t just about showcasing his talent—it was about making sure his father was remembered for more than just a crime story.

A Tragic Loss

Davis McClendon, a marketing director at an assisted living facility in Greenwood, South Carolina, was killed in May 2023 at age 46. His death was ruled a murder after he was struck by a Ford F-250 pickup truck driven by the estranged husband of his girlfriend, Meredith Haynie. The driver, “Bud” Ackerman Jr., fled the scene but was later convicted in an October 2023 trial. After just 22 minutes of deliberation, the jury found him guilty, and he was sentenced to 45 years in prison. The case was recently covered by 48 Hours.

Turning Pain into Music

Freddie, who has been writing songs since high school, turned to music as a way to process his grief. In You Never Loved Him, he expresses the pain of losing his father so suddenly, reflecting on the anger and sorrow of not getting to say goodbye.

His raw and emotional performance struck a chord with the judges. Luke Bryan praised his authenticity, comparing him to a modern-day Paul Simon. Carrie Underwood, wiping away tears, commended his bravery, saying, “It’s so brave of you to choose how you want to remember him—not what happened, but him.”

Moving Forward in the Competition

With his mother by his side and his two sisters in tears, Freddie earned a unanimous “yes” from the judges, securing his spot in the next round. He was one of a dozen contestants to advance, proving that his father’s legacy is more than just a headline—it lives on through his music.

Stay tuned to see how Freddie’s journey unfolds on American Idol!