The Voice lost one of its most special contestants this weekend, when 33-year-old Janice Freeman passed away from a blood clot. Freeman, who competed on season 13 of the hit show, was a fan favorite thanks to her powerful voice and upbeat personality. Coached by Miley Cyrus, Freeman left her mark on everyone she met.
Her family posted a statement about her death on her Instagram account:
We are heartbroken to report that Janice Marie Freeman passed away on March 2, 2019 from an extreme case of pneumonia and a blood clot that traveled to her heart. While at home her husband Dion performed CPR until the ambulance arrived. She passed away at a local hospital shortly after.A survivor and fighter, and a beautiful force in this world, Janice gained notoriety through her success on NBC's The Voice as a member of Miley Cyrus's team. Her story inspired fans nationwide, having successfully battled cervical cancer and living her life to the fullest while fighting lupus.
Her friends and family greatly appreciate your prayers, calls, and texts during this time, and ask that they be given space to remember everything that Janice was to them as they process and mourn her loss.
Cyrus and Freeman remained closed after she appeared on the show, and the coach even helped her when she was struggling to find a place to live.
"Thank you ALL but [Miley Cyrus] found us placement until we found permanent housing, gave me the deposit, covered me for 6 months so I can get on my feet!" Freeman wrote on Twitter at the time. "@MileyCyrus you are one of my closest friends and what you did for me and my family Im praying GOD gives you the desire of your heart!"
After the news of Freeman's passing broke, Cyrus shared a picture of a rainbow on Instagram, saying "Thank you @janicefreeman ... for everything. This represents you perfectly,"
Jennifer Hudson, who was also a coach on Freeman's season, shared her condolences on Twitter.
"@janicefreeman the voice of hers we got to hear and the bit of life we got to watch her live was a blessing and inspiration to us all! My heart and prayers go out to@janicefreeman daughter and family !@mileycyrus @nbcthevoice#ripjanicefreeman," Hudson wrote.
Freeman is survived by her husband, Dion, and her daughter.
It's so sad when such a beautiful soul is taken from this earth, especially so young.
