The gospel music world and fans of American Idol mourned the loss of Mandisa, the powerhouse vocalist who touched hearts with her inspiring songs and unwavering faith. News of her passing on April 18th, 2024, at the age of 47, left many wondering about the circumstances surrounding her death. Initially, details were scarce, prompting widespread speculation and grief. Now, official reports have clarified the question on everyone’s mind: How Did Mandisa Die?
According to an autopsy report obtained by PEOPLE, Mandisa’s death was attributed to complications arising from class III obesity. The report officially listed her manner of death as natural, confirming that there was no foul play or external factors involved. She was found in her home by friends, and the report indicated she had been deceased for approximately three weeks prior to being discovered on April 18th.
Class III obesity, formerly known as morbid obesity, is a serious medical condition defined by the Cleveland Clinic as having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher accompanied by obesity-related health conditions. This severe form of obesity significantly increases the risk of numerous health problems, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and breathing difficulties, among others. While the autopsy report specifies complications of class III obesity as the cause of death, the exact nature of these complications has not been publicly disclosed.
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Mandisa attends the “Overcomer” film premiere in Atlanta, Georgia, showcasing her vibrant presence in August 2019.
Mandisa’s journey to stardom began on season 5 of American Idol, where her powerful voice and warm personality captivated audiences, securing her a spot in the top 9. Her talent transcended the reality show stage, launching a successful career in contemporary Christian music. Her debut album, True Beauty, released in 2007, made history by debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart, a first for a new female artist. This album also earned her a Grammy nomination, foreshadowing future accolades.
Throughout her career, Mandisa released five more albums, solidifying her place as a leading voice in Christian music. In 2013, her album Overcomer earned her a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album, a pinnacle achievement recognizing her artistry and impact.
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Mandisa at the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards in Los Angeles, California, in January 2010, demonstrating her recognition within the broader music industry.
However, Mandisa’s life was not without its challenges. In 2014, she faced a profound personal loss with the death of her best friend and backup singer, Kisha Mitchell, from breast cancer. This devastating event triggered a period of deep depression and mental health struggles for Mandisa. As she shared in a 2017 interview with PEOPLE, “When she passed away, it shook the foundations underneath me. I sank into a deep pit of depression.”
Her mental health struggles led to significant weight gain and a period of isolation. Mandisa openly spoke about her battles with shame and her retreat from the world during this time. She described a period where she rarely left her house, finding solace only in television and comfort food. This period of isolation and emotional distress unfortunately coincided with a decline in her physical health.
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Mandisa with Ryan Seacrest during her time as a Top 20 finalist on American Idol Season 5, showcasing the early stages of her public career.
Mandisa bravely confronted her mental health challenges, eventually seeking counseling and support from friends who staged a caring intervention. This turning point marked the beginning of her journey toward healing, both mentally and physically. She channeled her experiences into her music, releasing the 2017 album Out of the Dark and a 2022 memoir of the same name, sharing her story of overcoming adversity and finding hope.
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Mandisa attending the 6th Annual KLOVE Fan Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, in May 2018, reflecting her continued presence in the Christian music community.
In conclusion, Mandisa’s untimely death was due to complications of class III obesity, as confirmed by the autopsy report. While her passing is a profound loss, her legacy as a talented musician who openly shared her struggles and triumphs will continue to inspire. Her honesty about her mental health journey and her powerful voice will be remembered by fans worldwide.
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.
