‘American Idol’ Sets Mandisa Tribute Following Death Of Season 5 Contestant

Armando Tinoco
·2 min read

American Idol is set to pay tribute to the late Mandisa, a Season 5 contestant in the singing competition.

On the episode set to air on Monday, April 29 on ABC, the show will remember the 2005 Idol alum.

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“Mandisa was an adored icon on American Idol and in the music industry,” the show said in a statement. “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.”

Ryan Seacrest took a moment from Sunday’s show to announce the special tribute to Mandisa set for next week.

“We wanted to take a moment to honor a dear member of the Idol family who we sadly lost this week — Mandisa,” Seacrest said. “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.”

Mandisa died at her home in Nashville on April 18 at the age of 47.

“Mandisa loved Jesus, and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn,” said David Pierce, K-Love Chief Media Officer. “Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart.”

Pierce continued, “Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles. Mandisa’s struggles are over. 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.”

Following Mandisa’s death, fellow American Idol alum Jennifer Hudson shared a message on social media remembering the late singer.

“Broke my heart when I heard the news! She was truly a woman of faith. A bright light that made such a powerful imprint on this world. Rest in heaven, Mandisa!” Hudson posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

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