American Idol Star Mandisa Lynn Hundley Dies Aged 47

On April 18, Mandisa Lynn Hundley, known professionally as Mandisa, passed away at her home in Nashville. She was just 47.

Mandisa first rose to fame on Season 5 of American Idol. She competed alongside fellow contestants Chris Daughtry, Kellie Pickler, and Katharine McPhee, finishing in ninth place. A fan favorite, she went on to become a Christian rock radio station staple, a Platinum-selling artist, and a Grammy winner.

Calling Simon on his hurtful comment

Born and raised in Citrus Heights, California, Mandisa won the hearts of viewers when she rebuffed judge Simon Cowell’s abrasive criticism with a sweet smile.

The Christian artist first auditioned for American Idol in Chicago. She sang Fallin’ by Alicia Keys and was thrilled to get three yeses from judges Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Simon. Once she was out of earshot, Simon turned to the crew and joked, “Do we have a bigger stage this year?”

During Hollywood Week, Mandisa addressed Simon’s comment with her typical grace and kindness. “What I want to say to you is that, yes, you hurt me, and I cried,” she told him. “It was painful, it really was. But I want you to know that I’ve forgiven you and that you don’t need someone to apologize in order to forgive somebody.”

“I figure that if Jesus could die so that all of my wrongs could be forgiven, I can certainly extend that same grace to you,” she added.

“I’m so sorry, Mandisa,” Simon responded. “I’ve been humbled by your words.” He then stood up and hugged her.

An encouragement to those who struggle

In her 2022 memoir Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy, Mandisa detailed her mental health struggles following her rape as a teenager. She actually considered suicide at one point, but loving friends intervened and helped her into therapy.

“I went to counseling as a result of their intervention,” she later said. “Who knew that talking about these things [is] actually good and healthy for you? It’s not a sign of weakness.”

“Mandisa’s struggles are over,” said K-Love chief media officer David Pierce, following her death. “She is with the God she sang about now. While we are saddened, Mandisa is home. We’re praying for Mandisa’s family and friends and ask you to join us.”

Her cause of death has not been revealed.

If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

American Idol continues Sundays and Mondays on ABC.

TELL US – PLEASE SHARE ANY WORDS OF CONDOLENCE FOR MANDISA’S FAMILY IN THE COMMENTS. 

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