‘American Idol’ Sets “Very Special Musical Tribute” In Honor Of Late Contestant Mandisa: “An Inspiration On The Show And Beyond”

Former American Idol contestant Mandisa Hundley, who recently died at age 47, will soon be honored by the reality competition series that launched her career.

Ryan Seacrest announced that the show will have a “very special musical tribute” for the singer next Monday, April 29.

He also praised Mandisa during Sunday’s (April 21) episode of American Idol. “We wanted to take a moment to honor a dear member of the Idol family who we sadly lost this week — Mandisa,” he said, per Deadline.

“She was an inspiration on the show and beyond. We’re going to celebrate her next week with a very special musical tribute,” he added. “Our hearts go out to her family and all of those, like us, who called her a friend.”

Mandisa died April 18 in her Nashville home. A cause of death has not been shared.

The successful Christian singer made it to the Top 9 on American Idol before she struck out on her own to release three Grammy-nominated albums. She won a Grammy in 2013 for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.

American Idol shared a statement on the late singer’s sudden passing.

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

Fellow Idol alum Jennifer Hudson also remembered Mandisa’s legacy with a touching statement on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

“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!” she wrote.

The tribute for Mandisa will air April 29 on American Idol at 8/7c.