American Idol alumna and Grammy-winning Christian singer Mandisa Lynn Hundley has passed away at the age of 47. The cause of death remains unknown.
Mandisa rose to fame on the fifth season of American Idol in 2006, finishing in ninth place. She went on to achieve success in the Christian music scene, earning multiple Grammy nominations before winning the award in 2014 for her album ‘Overcomer.’
Throughout her career, Mandisa openly shared her struggles with depression and grief. Her memoir, ‘Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy,’ was published in 2022.
Tributes have poured in from the music community, including from her former American Idol judge Paula Abdul, who called Mandisa a ‘true beacon of light,’ and fellow contestant Danny Gokey, who said he was ‘devastated’ by the news.
A spokesperson for American Idol described Mandisa as ‘an adored icon’ on the show and extended condolences to her family.
