American Idol finalist Willie Spence to return to Douglas, Georgia for homecoming celebration

American Idol finalist Willie Spence is returning to southwest Georgia as part of his homecoming celebration on May 18. Spence, who made it into the top three over the weekend, won’t be getting a parade or other public events due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Douglas city officials have announced on Monday that all activities Spence will be a part of will be invite only and that camera crews will not be able to film if crowds gather.

However, city officials are asking residents and business owners to show support for Spence by doing the following:

• Update business marquees
• Hand a banner
• Decorate posters
• Put out yard signs
• Paint a window message

Spence will be chauffeured through the town and filmed while seeing the messages of support according to city officials.

Residents are also asked to gather on Peterson Avenue and Madison Avenue to Jardine Stadium with signs of support at 4:30 p.m. as Spence travels through town, but are asked to be socially distant, wear a mask, and not attend if you are sick.

This is the second time that state has held a homecoming celebration for an American Idol finalist. Phillip Phillips returned in 2012 as part of his homecoming celebration in 2012.

Spence’s original single “Never Be Alone” was produced by Tricky Stewart. The song is currently #3 on the R&B/Soul charts.

Spence will compete on Sunday, May 23 in the Top 3 finale where the American Idol winner will be announced at the end of the live show.