American Idol contestant Freddie McClendon, 19, earned a golden ticket to Hollywood after moving the judges to tears with a powerful original song dedicated to his late father, Davis McClendon. The emotional audition aired on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Freddie, a native of Greenville, South Carolina, performed his heartfelt song, “You Never Loved Him,” in memory of his father, who was tragically murdered in May 2023. Davis was killed by William ‘Bud’ Ackerman Jr., the estranged husband of Davis’ girlfriend, Meredith Haynie. Ackerman Jr. struck Davis with his truck and fled the scene, later being arrested and convicted of murder.
In a pre-audition video, Freddie shared a touching tribute to his father, describing their close bond. “He was an absolutely wonderful person… he really understood me,” Freddie said. His mother, Kristin, expressed how Freddie had lost his “best friend,” and songwriting became his outlet for grief.
As Freddie performed, all three judges—Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan—were visibly moved by his bravery and honesty. Carrie Underwood praised Freddie for being “brave” in telling his father’s story, while Luke Bryan thanked him for his “honesty.” The judges gave Freddie a unanimous “yes,” sending him to Hollywood with a golden ticket.
Freddie’s family joined him for the emotional moment as they celebrated his advancement in the competition.
American Idol airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
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