‘American Idol’ star Caleb Flynn found guilty of wife’s murder

‘American Idol’ contestant Caleb Flynn has been convicted of murder

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Published September 30, 2026
‘American Idol’ star Caleb Flynn found guilty of wife’s murder

Caleb Carl Flynn, known for his appearance on American Idol has been found guilty of his wife’s murder.

Prosecutors accused the musician and pastor of staging a home invasion in February after shooting his wife, Ashley, a schoolteacher and volleyball coach.

During the trial, the woman who said she was having an affair with Flynn testified that he claimed he hated his wife and had thoughts of killing her.

Alleigha Botner testified she met Flynn in 2022, when she was a 20-year-old intern at his church, and had an affair with him for more than a year.

The night before the fatal shooting, he sent a text to his lover saying, "I choose you. I'm free. Actions will come tomorrow," according to an assistant Miami County prosecutor.

Flynn could get up to life in prison without the chance of parole when he's sentenced on Monday next week.

The American Idol contestant fought to maintain his composure as the judge read the guilty verdicts on charges of murder, felonious assault and tampering with evidence, the Associated Press reports.

He began sobbing while the judge dismissed the jury. His attorney called the verdicts "disappointing" and said he expects to file an appeal.

Flynn appeared on American Idol in 2013, telling TV viewers how his wife had encouraged him to chase his dreams on the singing competition.

He sang before judges Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson and Nicki Minaj but did not advance to the main competition in Hollywood.

Sadaf Naushad
Sadaf Naushad is a Journalist and Neurochemistry master's graduate with over four years of experience. Leveraging her scientific background, she specialises in celebrity wellness, mental health, and the psychology of lifestyle trends, bridging the gap between science and pop culture to provide expert insight into global icons' well-being.
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