On March 23, 2025, the most recent episode of American Idol Season 23 aired, introducing fans to a series of captivating auditions that demonstrated the breadth of talent in the country. Of these, South Carolina's 19-year-old Freddie McClendon had a particularly moving audition that struck a deep chord with the judges and the audience.
Freddie entered the stage to sing an original song called "You Never Loved Him," which was a moving ode to his father, Davis McClendon. Davis was sadly killed in a hit-and-run event in 2023 and Freddie and his family were deeply affected by this loss. Freddie aimed to transcend the terrible circumstances of his father's passing by using his song to celebrate his life and legacy. He impressed the judges with his heartfelt narration and his delivery.
Fans swiftly took to social media to show their appreciation and sympathy for Freddie, demonstrating that the emotional impact of his audition went beyond the panel of judges. Reactions from fans who were profoundly moved by his performance were all over social media sites like Twitter.
An American Idol admirer posted,
"Freddie made me cry, I miss my dad so much. #AmericanIdol #CUonIDol @carrieunderwood @AmericanIdol.
"Freddie is such an old soul but he’s the life of the party at the same time! He’s got a cool “crooner” style with a modern edge…such a touching story…incredible bravery…I’m so glad he shared all of that with us. #AmericanIdol," read a tweet.
A fan wrote on X,
"Omg. Freddie McClendon. Where have you been hiding with that beautiful soulful honest voice?!? Apparently, @BelmontUniv Reminds me of Jeff Buckley. Absolutely haunted by this. #YouNeverLovedHim #AmericanIdol #Nashville.
Fans of American Idol even called his performance "incredible" and "powerful."
"Wow, That was an incredible performance by freddie mcclendon, His original song is amazing, And it was one of the best performances of the night this week during the auditions #AmericanIdol."
"Freddie McClendon’s heart-wrenching tribute to his dad is a powerful reminder that love transcends loss #AmericanIdol," another netizen posted on social media.
"So brave of you" — American Idol judge Carrie gets emotional with Freddie's tribute to his father
One of the most moving performances on American Idol Season 23 was given by Freddie McClendon, who sang his original song, "You Never Loved Him." The musician, 19, honored his late father, Davis McClendon, who was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident, with his music. The judges were clearly moved by his moving tale.
"Thank you for bringing that and sharing your heart and it's so brave of you to decide that you want to choose the narrative," Carrie Underwood said, holding back her tears.
On social media, fans agreed with her and praised Freddie's bravery and openness. His performance was hailed by many as one of the season's most poignant moments.
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American Idol Season 23 is available on ABC for the fans to watch.
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