We have an update on the tragic passing of CJ Harris.
As previously reported, the American Idol alum – who finished in sixth place in 2014 – was taken to an Alabama hospital on Sunday and was pronounced dead by doctors soon after.
He is only 31 years old.
Based on information provided Thursday by a Walker County Coroner’s spokesperson, we can now confirm Harris died of a heart attack.
After she advanced to the semifinals on American Idol several years ago – thanks to her soulful interpretations of the classic Southern Rock hits “Soulshine” and “Can’t You See” – Harris was eliminated on April 24, 2014.
(The winner that season was Caleb Johnson.)
“CJ Harris was an incredible talent, and the news of his passing is deeply saddening. He will be greatly missed,” American Idol said in a statement on social media earlier this week.
After her run on American Idol, Harris continued her music career, releasing her debut single in 2019 with the song “In Love.”
“I’m always on the internet, trying to find a break, looking for producers who can send me my stuff.
“I was looking up American Idol and I saw that he was doing a bus tour and he was going to be 30 minutes down the road from me,” Harris told The Hollywood Reporter in 2014, adding that he had previously tried out for Idol, The X-Factor and The Voice.
“I said, ‘You know what? I’m going to give it another chance. I’m getting better, my voice is maturing and my playing is getting better.
After CJ’s death, several former Idol contestants paid tribute to Harris via social media.
“The world will always be a darker and lonelier place without you,” Season 13 contestant Jessica Meuse wrote on Instagram, adding:
I am grateful that our paths crossed and I can say you are (and will always be) part of me.
“There are many things I will never understand – you leaving us so soon is one of them.”
Johnson also posted his thoughts on Harris’ death, writing on Instagram that the news was “deeply painful,” while reflecting on their time as roommates during Hollywood week.
“We instantly became friends and formed a pack of brotherhood with @realalexpreston @samwoolfmusic,” the former champion said.
“So many amazing memories and experiences with you CJ! Life is so fragile! I am so thankful that our lives had to cross paths in this life.
“You were a beautiful and kind soul who always brightened a room with your smile and laughter.
“Love you brother, you were taken from us too soon! See you again RIP.”