Freddie McClendon, a 19-year-old aspiring singer, captivated judges on American Idol with a heartfelt song dedicated to his father, Davis McClendon, who was murdered in May 2023. During an emotional audition on March 23, 2025, Freddie performed an original piece titled "You Never Loved Him," aiming to share not only the sorrow of his father's tragic death but also to celebrate the life he led.
“My dad was killed about a year ago, in May 2023, and it became a national and statewide news story. Everyone was focusing on his death, and I wanted to tell the story of his life,” Freddie reflected during his audition. The judges—Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie—were visibly moved by his performance, with Underwood even becoming emotional and praising him for his bravery.
Davis McClendon, 46, was found dead on May 7, 2023, near his wrecked BMW in Greenwood, South Carolina. Initially classified as a hit-and-run, further investigation revealed it to be a deliberate act. Meredith Haynie, Davis's girlfriend, noted that shortly before his death, Davis had contacted her and then abruptly fell silent. Concerned, Haynie and a babysitter drove to the location and discovered Davis’s lifeless body about 50 feet from his vehicle, suggesting he had been outside when he was struck.
Authorities quickly pieced together the circumstances surrounding Davis's death. The investigation uncovered a trail of oil leading from the scene to the home of Bud Ackerman, Meredith's estranged husband. Upon discovering damage consistent with a collision on Ackerman’s truck, police established that he had intentionally run down Davis after an altercation. Authorities presented evidence of premeditated intent for the act, as the relationship dynamics between Davis and Ackerman were fraught with tension over the former's relationship with Haynie.
In October 2024, a jury found Ackerman guilty of murder after just 30 minutes of deliberation. He was subsequently sentenced to 45 years in prison, a stark reminder of the tragic events that ripped a family apart. “It was incredibly hard to see my dad reduced to just a tragic headline,” Freddie admitted. Rather than let that narrative define him, Freddie opted to use his musical talent to express the depth of his loss.
Upon completing his song during the American Idol audition, Freddie expressed his relief and pride in sharing his father's story with the world. “I miss him every day. He was something so much bigger than just the true crime story of the week. He meant the world to us,” Freddie said, highlighting his desire to shift the focus from the tragedy to the legacy his father left behind.
Following his powerful performance, the judges couldn't help but praise Freddie's heartfelt delivery. Underwood, holding back tears, remarked, “Thank you for bringing that and for sharing your heart. It's so brave of you to choose the narrative you want to remember him by.” Luke Bryan added, “You’ve got a really honest approach to this thing. It's like our little modern-day Paul Simon.”
Freddie earned three enthusiastic “yeses” from the judges and a golden ticket to Hollywood. Reflecting on his audition, he said, “I’m so proud that I was able to tell my dad’s story. It meant the world that it resonated with Carrie Underwood. I’m beyond blessed.”
The re-examination of Davis McClendon's case via the recent 48 Hours episode sparked renewed interest in the story, reminding viewers of the emotional turmoil surrounding the murder and the resilience of the McClendon family. Freddie's journey on the show comes at a poignant moment, as he uses his talent to heal and connect with the audience through shared loss.
In addition to Freddie's journey, the case has served as a watershed moment in the discussion surrounding violence against individuals in intimate relationships. As the story continues to unfold on American Idol, Freddie’s determination reminds us that, even in the midst of suffering, there lies a path toward healing and transformation.
As the season progresses, Freddie McClendon's story undoubtedly resonates with fans and serves as an inspiration for many, showcasing the potent link between art and personal experience. The emotional weight of his performance and the underlying narrative of tragedy he carries will remain central themes as he competes for a chance to fulfill his musical dreams.
