Sad news has rocked The Voice community—Ryan Whyte Maloney, the talented singer who stole hearts on Season 6 of the hit show, has tragically died at 44.
The Clark County coroner confirmed to People that Maloney died by suicide in Las Vegas, with his cause of death listed as a gunshot wound to the head.
Just hours before his passing, Maloney shared what seemed like an upbeat Instagram Story, showing himself at a Las Vegas bar while flashing a rock hand sign. “Nine fine Irishmen for a private party tonight, and we will be rocking,” he said—giving no indication of the heartbreak that would follow.
Now, fans and fellow musicians are mourning the unexpected loss of a man whose powerful voice once captivated millions.
Ryan Whyte Maloney’s ‘The Voice’ Journey: A Star in the Making
If you watched Season 6 of The Voice in 2014, you probably remember Ryan’s epic blind audition—his powerhouse performance of Journey’s “Lights” had all four judges turning their chairs in an instant.
Blake Shelton, Adam Levine, Shakira, and Usher all fought hard to get him on their team, but in the end, Maloney went with Team Blake.
During his time on the show, he wowed audiences with genre-spanning performances, including:
🎤 Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got to Do with It”
🎤 Rascal Flatts’ “Easy”
🎤 Shinedown’s “Second Chance”
Though he didn’t make it to the live rounds, Maloney was such a standout that he was personally invited back to perform at the Season 6 finale—a moment he later called “the best time of my life”.
Life After ‘The Voice’: His Bond with Blake Shelton
Many The Voice contestants disappear from the spotlight after their season ends, but Ryan Whyte Maloney kept grinding in the music industry.
He even maintained a strong relationship with Blake Shelton, performing at the grand opening of Shelton’s bar Ole Red just last year.
Earlier this month, Maloney reflected on his time post-The Voice, sharing a deeply personal Instagram post about the rollercoaster of emotions he felt after the show ended:
🗣️ “I was at home all depressed after The Voice… trying to pick up the pieces of putting my life together. I was getting used to waking up to 60,000 Facebook messages of people who said they knew me—that was hilarious! And then I got a call from The Voice asking me to come back for the finale… best time of my life ever!”
His words painted a picture of someone grappling with fame, trying to hold onto the magic while dealing with the challenges that come with it.
Final Days: The Heartbreaking Signs No One Saw Coming
What makes Maloney’s passing even more heartbreaking is that he seemed to be celebrating life just days before his death.
On January 6, he posted a joyful birthday message, thanking fans for their love and support:
🗣️ “I’m overflowing with gratitude for the lovely birthday wishes and affection I received today. Your kindness truly warms my heart. Thank you a million times over!”
He even promoted his upcoming gigs, inviting fans to join him at Ole Red for a weekend of music and fun.
His final Instagram Story—where he casually mentioned performing at a private party in Las Vegas—makes it all the more shocking that he would take his own life just hours later.
Hollywood Reacts: Tributes Pour in for Ryan Whyte Maloney
As news of Maloney’s passing spread, heartfelt tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and The Voice family flooded social media.
🎶 Blake Shelton has yet to publicly comment, but fans have already begun posting messages on his social media, urging him to honor Maloney’s memory.
🎶 Fellow ‘The Voice’ contestants from Season 6 have been sharing memories of Maloney’s incredible voice, kind heart, and passion for music.
🎶 Fans of the show have taken to Twitter and Instagram, revisiting his performances and celebrating the talent he brought to the world.
One heartbreaking fan comment summed up the collective grief:
💔 “I remember watching Ryan’s audition and being in awe of his voice. I can’t believe he’s gone. Rest in peace, Ryan.”
A Reminder to Check In on Loved Ones
Maloney’s tragic passing is another reminder of how important mental health conversations are—especially in an industry where the highs are high, but the lows can be crushing.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:
📞 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (24/7 support)
📞 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
No matter how alone someone might feel, there are always people who care and want to help.
Ryan Whyte Maloney’s Legacy Lives On
Though his life was tragically cut short, Ryan Whyte Maloney’s incredible voice and infectious passion for music will never be forgotten.
From his unforgettable The Voice audition to his years of performances, he touched the hearts of so many—and that legacy will live on.
Rest in peace, Ryan. 💔🎶
FAQs
1. How did Ryan Whyte Maloney die?
Maloney died by suicide in Las Vegas. His cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head, according to the Clark County coroner.
2. When was Ryan Whyte Maloney on The Voice?
He competed on Season 6 (2014) and was on Team Blake Shelton. He wowed the judges with his blind audition of Journey’s “Lights”, receiving a four-chair turn.
3. Did Ryan Whyte Maloney continue performing after The Voice?
Yes! Maloney continued performing at various venues, including Blake Shelton’s Ole Red. He also remained active on social media, sharing updates about his music career.
4. What did Ryan Whyte Maloney say about his time on The Voice?
He once called performing at The Voice finale “the best time of my life”, despite struggling with depression after the show.
5. What should I do if I or someone I know is struggling with mental health?
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOME to 741741 for confidential support.