The Voice star dies aged 44 as tragic cause of death confirmed

Ryan Whyte Maloney, who appeared on the US version of The Voice, has died at the age of 44.

This isn't the only tragedy linked to The Voice, after a contestant from the French version was shot by a gunman last year, but survived. And in 2016, The Voice favourite Christina Grimmie was shot dead by a fan while signing autographs.

Sadly, singer Ryan is reported to have died by suicide on Tuesday in Nevada. Just hours earlier, Ryan had shared a video on Instagram which appeared to show him having fun in a bar.

He said in the clip: "Nine fine Irishmen for a private party tonight, and we will be rocking." Since his sad passing, his followers have been paying tribute underneath his latest post.

It wasn't a selfie, instead a meme, but it has now become a tribute post. One person said: "Sending love and light to Ryan's family, friends and many fans. May you rest peacefully."

Another commented: "Ryan, what the bro? We loved you. We just saw you at Ole Red on Friday... love you dude."

Someone else said: "Lucky to get to see him at Ole Red in Vegas, we loved him, he was so nice and fun! So sad!"

Another fan added: "I'm heartbroken. We saw you Friday. You never failed to entertain."

Ryan competed on The Voice in 2014 on the sixth season. He performed the Journey song Lights and earned a spot on coach Blake Shelton's team.

He went on to make the top five of Team Blake. He competed in the battle rounds and in the season finale.

During his time on the show, he performed other songs including What's Love Got To Do With It by Tina Turner, Easy by Rascal Flatts and Second Chance by Shinedown.

The star grew up with music, playing the guitar, violin, cello and drums. He went on to tour with a band called Indulge.

His passion for music continued even after The Voice. He went on to write for other artists, and do work in the studio.

Back in January 2023, he released country radio single Don't Put Me In A Box. It was followed by tracks such as Love With Nowhere To Go, Sleepwalk and Toast To Tonight.

Last year he landed a residency at the venue Ole Red, which had been continuing. Over the years he shared the stage with huge names including Shakira and Ed Sheeran.