Eliminated ‘American Idol’ Hopeful Mourns Loss of His Father: “Absolutely Gutted”

Sonny Tennet (@sonnysocials) / X

Looking to break out across the pond on American Idol, U.K. artist Sonny Tennet delivered a version of The Commodores’ “Easy” that brought the song’s writer, Lionel Richie, to his feet. Punching his golden ticket to Hollywood, the 25-year-old singer-songwriter was eliminated just shy of the Top 12. Less than one month after ending his time on Idol, Tennet recently shared a heartbreaking loss.

‘American Idol’ Star Pays Tribute to “One of My Biggest Musical Influences”

On Thursday (May 1), American Idol hopeful Sonny Tennet posted a picture of his father singing and playing guitar.

“Said goodbye to my dad today… a great man and one of my biggest musical influences,” he wrote. “Absolutely gutted, just hoping he’s at peace. See you in the next one.  love you Dad.”

The Idol team expressed their condolences in the comments, writing simply, “So sorry, Sonny.”

Several of Tennet’s fellow season 23 hopefuls also showered him with love, including Filo Ebid. “My condolences brother,” he wrote. “sending the love and prayers to you and your whole family.”

How Sonny Tennet’s Dad Inspired His ‘Idol’ Journey

Growing up in South Shields, England, Sonny (real name: Stevie Jay Tennet) began playing the Tyneside pub circuit alongside his dad when he was just 14.

“My dad was a singer in a band for years when I was growing up,” the American Idol alum told the UK publication Cultured North East last November. “I used to watch him play live and he had a really good following. We’d be out in the town and people would come up and shake his hand and stuff. I thought, ‘Hang on a minute’ — Dad’s quite a popular man and it’s all down to his music!’”

Finding himself drawn to the karaoke machine from an early age, Tennet’s parents always encouraged him to share his talents. “Both of my parents were so supportive and I was part of a very musical family,” he said.

In July 2024, Tennet released his debut album, Panorama. He has amassed large followings on both Instagram and TikTok, along with 70 million streams on Spotify.

Featured image by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images