“American Idol” alum Mandisa’s cause of death has been revealed, after the singer passed away at age 47 on April 18.
The Grammy winner died of complications of class III obesity, according to an autopsy report obtained by People.
The report listed her manner of death as natural.
Class III obesity is a disease in which a person “has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher and is experiencing obesity-related health conditions,” which can lead to the development of several serious health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, according to Cleveland Clinic.
The late musician was best known for landing in the Top 10 when she appeared on Season 5 of “American Idol,” placing ninth.
At the time, she cited Def Leppard and Whitney Houston among her influences.
She released her debut album, “True Beauty,” in 2007. Her 2013 record, “Overcomer,” won the Best Contemporary Christian Music Album Grammy.
In an April episode of “American Idol,” the show honored Mandisa.
“Idol” alums Colton Dixon, Melinda Doolittle and Danny Gokey performed a cover of “Shackles (Praise You)” by duo Mary Mary as a tribute to Mandisa.
“Mandisa was an adored icon on ‘American Idol’ and in the music industry,” the show said in a statement at the time.
“She had become a platinum-selling artist and had won several Grammys for her music. Her passing has left everyone on the show heartbroken, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family.”
“She brought such joy to our family, to our lives that we’re just going to miss her every day,” Mandisa’s father, John Hundley, told News 2 after her death.
Gokey, for his part, took to Instagram after her death.
“Devastated to to hear about the sudden loss of Mandisa. Not only did we connect over being American Idol alumni — we had a great time on the road doing several several tours together. Her joy was infectious & I loved her heart to encourage people on & off stage!” he wrote. “When I made my debut in Christian music she was my greatest supporter. It wasn’t easy coming off my first failed record deal after the show but she was the one who welcomed me first and loudest….Mandisa you left too soon — our community will never be the same without you.”
Fellow “American Idol” alum Melinda Doolittle wrote via Instagram, “I wish everyone had even a small dose of Mandisa in their lives. She would be the loudest cheerleader you have ever known. She would laugh the hardest at your worst joke…your presence and friendship has been a gift for over 20 years. I’m so grateful to have been loved by you in a way that makes this loss so very profound.”
