‘American Idol’ Star Mandisa’s Cause Of Death Revealed

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The official cause of death for Mandisa, a beloved gospel singer who launched her career on the fifth season of American Idol, has been revealed in a new autopsy report.

In an autopsy report obtained by PEOPLE, Mandisa’s untimely death was revealed to have been caused by complications of Class 3 obesity.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, Class 3 obesity was formerly known as morbid obesity and is a “complex chronic condition that can lead to several serious health issues.” Healthline adds that those will Class 3 obesity face a high mortality rate due to risks for heart disease, diabetes, or cancer.

The autopsy report also states that Mandisa was found deceased by her friends on April 13 and “was last known alive approximately three weeks” prior. She was 47 at the time of her death.

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A statement released by the singer’s team confirmed her passing, saying: “We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased. At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

As news of Mandisa’s death spread, an outpouring of tributes made their way to social media.

Legendary contemporary Christian artist Amy Grant was among the first to mourn the loss of the Grammy Award-winning singer.

“Mandisa’s smile was like turning on sunshine. She lit up every room she walked into and every stage she graced. We are all going to miss her light and that beautiful smile,” Amy wrote alongside a photo of herself, Mandisa, and fellow Christian artist Natalie Grant.

 

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Danny Gokey, Mandisa’s fellow American Idol Season 5 alum, also took to social media to share his sadness over her death.

“Her joy was infectious & I loved her heart to encourage people on & off stage! 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 and rallied everyone to support me,” Gokey shared.

 

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Relive Mandisa’s memorable American Idol audition in the video below.