The official autopsy report has revealed that former "American Idol" star and Grammy-winning singer Mandisa died from "complications of class III obesity." The report, made public recently, stated her manner of death as natural, with no abnormalities found in the toxicology tests. Mandisa, who passed away at 47, was found unresponsive in her Franklin, Tennessee home by friends on April 18.
According to the medical examiner, Mandisa weighed 488 pounds at the time of her death. Class III obesity, also referred to as severe obesity, is diagnosed when an individual has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, a BMI of 35 or higher with serious obesity-related conditions, or is more than 100 pounds over their recommended weight.
The Davidson County Medical Examiner's Office had indicated that it could take between eight to twelve weeks for the autopsy results to be finalized. RadarOnline.com confirmed the autopsy's completion shortly after her passing. The Franklin Police Department, in a statement, ruled out any suspicious or criminal activity related to her death.
Mandisa's journey to fame began with her participation in season 5 of "American Idol," where she finished in the top 9. She later released her debut album, "True Beauty," in 2007, which topped the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart. Her 2013 album, "Overcomer," won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album, solidifying her status in the music industry.
"Mandisa was an adored icon on 'American Idol' and in the music industry," read a tribute from the show following her death. "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."
In an April episode of "American Idol," the show honored Mandisa with a tribute performance by alums Colton Dixon, Melinda Doolittle, and Danny Gokey, who covered "Shackles (Praise You)" by Mary Mary.
Mandisa’s cause of death revealed, report says https://t.co/9UCaYr42He pic.twitter.com/yQ3ABbTlCu — WFLA NEWS (@WFLA) June 5, 2024
Following the news of her death, Mandisa's father, John Hundley, shared with News 2, "She brought such joy to our family, to our lives that we're just going to miss her every day."
Gokey, expressing his sorrow on Instagram, wrote, "Devastated 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 tours together. Her joy was infectious & I loved her heart to encourage people on & off stage! Mandisa, you left too soon - our community will never be the same without you."
Melinda Doolittle also paid tribute, stating, "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."
Despite her professional success, Mandisa faced significant personal challenges. After her best friend and backup singer Kisha Mitchell died of breast cancer while pregnant in 2014, Mandisa fell into a deep depression, which she openly discussed in a 2017 interview with People magazine. This period led her to gain weight and become reclusive, battling shame and grief.
"You're battling shame, and you don't want to leave the house," she said. "When I got up, I went downstairs, sat in the recliner, and I watched television nonstop. The only time I left was when I got tired of pizza delivery and decided to get McDonald's."
Her friends eventually intervened, leading her to seek counseling and begin a journey towards improving her mental and physical health. She chronicled these experiences in her 2017 album "Out of the Dark" and her 2022 memoir "Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God's Joy."
Mandisa's story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of mental health and obesity, and the impact they can have on an individual's life. Her legacy, both as an artist and a person who faced and overcame significant personal struggles, continues to inspire many.
If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.
