Former ‘American Idol’ contestant Joanne Borgella dead at 32

There is some more sadness coming out in the world of “American Idol” today, as for the second time this year, a member of the top 24 on season 7 has passed away.

Joanne Borgella, who was notable both for this show and appearing on an Oxygen reality show years ago featuring Mo’Nique, passed away following a battle with cancer. She was only 32 years old, and it was only around this time a year ago when she first made her cancer diagnosis public.

The reason there had not been many “American Idol” deaths before this season is pretty clear, and it has to do with the simple fact that there is a specific age limit that you need to be under in order to be a part of the series. Therefore, the oldest that any former contestant could technically be at the moment is in their early fourties if they competed back on one of the first seasons.

This news does follow the tragic passing of season 7 top 12 member Michael Johns earlier this year, who died in a somewhat-sudden and surprising fashion. There were also concerns about another former contestant in Josh Gracin after a troubling post he made on Facebook, but he was able to be found and receive some of the help that he needs.

In the years since being a part of “American Idol,” Borgella had worked within the world of plus-size modeling, and also did some coaching for the MTV series “Made,” which instructs you about how to properly make some of your dreams come true. It almost goes without saying that it is unspeakably sad to see someone pass at a time that is still so early in their life.

Our thoughts and well-wishes go out to all who knew and cared about her during this difficult time. (Photo via Fox.)