American Idol “legend” Mandisa Hundley has sadly passed away at the age of 47. The singer first appeared on the then-FOX talent show, auditioning in front of Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul. Although she didn’t win the competition, Mandisa went on to become a successful recording artist and won a Grammy in her lifetime.
Mandisa rose to fame almost two decades ago when she graced American Idol with her incredible talent. Stepping into the audition room, she gave her rendition of Alicia Keys’ Fallin’ before getting three “yeses” from the judges. Following the tragic news of her death, the ABC show paid tribute to Mandisa during the current season 22.
Mandisa on American Idol
Recognized by fans for being a “sweet soul,” a “legend” and “beautiful inside and out,” Mandisa was a fan-favorite during her time on American Idol.
She sadly passed away on April 18 at the age of 47. She was found dead at her home in Nashville.
The cause of Mandisa’s death is currently unknown, writes The New York Times.
In 2005, despite hailing from California, Mandisa auditioned for the show in Chicago.
At the time, she was 28 years old and went straight to Hollywood after her impressive audition.
Mandisa made it through to the Top 9, but was eliminated in Country Week when she sang Shania Twain’s Any Man of Mine.
American Idol to pay tribute
During American Idol’s April 21 episode, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, host Ryan Seacrest said the show will honor Mandisa next week.
He said: “We wanted to take a moment to honor a dear member of the Idol family who we sadly lost this week — Mandisa… She was an inspiration on the show and beyond. We’re going to celebrate her next week with a very special musical tribute. Our hearts go out to her family and all of those, like us, who called her a friend,” writes Deadline.
The show said in a statement: “Mandisa was an adored icon on American Idol and in the music industry. She had become a platinum-selling artist and had won several Grammys for her music. Her passing has left everyone on the show heartbroken, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family.”
Mandisa stood up to Simon
After Mandisa’s audition, Simon Cowell made a comment once she’d left the room: “Do we have a bigger stage this year?”
Randy Jackson replied: “Oh, come on!”
Before Paula said: “She’s got like a Frenchie,” before Simon cut her off: “Forget Frenchie, she’s like France.”
Later in the competition, Mandisa told Simon how he “made her cry,” and how she was “hurt” because of his comments.
She added how she “forgave” him. Simon said: “Mandisa, I am humbled. Come here, give me a kiss. I’m just so appalling aren’t I?”
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