Beloved gospel singer and former “American Idol” contestant Mandisa Hundley, known professionally as Mandisa, has died. The singer, who touched hearts around the world with her powerful voice and inspirational messages of faith, passed away on Thursday, April 18, at the age of 47.
Mandisa’s death was confirmed by a representative in a statement to People magazine on Friday. Her official social media accounts also shared the news.
“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased,” the statement read. “At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Mandisa rose to fame in 2006 as a contestant on the fifth season of “American Idol,” where she captivated audiences with her soulful voice and infectious personality. Finishing in the top nine, she used her platform to launch a successful and inspiring career in gospel music.
Her songs, which often spoke of overcoming adversity and finding hope in faith, resonated deeply with fans. Mandisa’s debut album, “True Beauty,” was released in 2007, followed by several more acclaimed records, including “Freedom” (2009), “What If We Were Real” (2011), and her Grammy Award-winning album “Overcomer” (2013). The title track, “Overcomer,” became an anthem of resilience and empowerment, encouraging listeners to find strength in their struggles.
Beyond her music, Mandisa was known for her unwavering faith and her dedication to helping others. She was an outspoken advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness, sharing her own experiences to inspire and uplift others. Mandisa was also a successful author, publishing several books, including Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy.
In Out of the Dark, published in 2022, Mandisa shares her journey as a Christian, breaking out from “American Idol” to launch a successful music career, and about how God brought her through devastating hardships and challenges.
In a 2022 interview with CBN, Mandisa spoke openly about her battle with depression and suicide.
Mandisa’s passing has sent shockwaves through the gospel music community and beyond. Fellow artists, fans, and friends took to social media to express grief and shock over her death.
“Heartbroken, but I also know there is a MAJOR party happening in heaven right now. Love you Disa. See you soon,” wrote fellow “American Idol” contestant and recording artist Colton Dixon.
“I’m forever grateful for the impact she had on my life. She will be so incredibly missed. She sang like an angel here. I can only imagine what she sounds like in heaven today,” Christian author Lysa Terkeurst wrote.
Fellow gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds could only convey shock in response to the Instagram post revealing her death, writing, “Oh my God.”
Faithfully Magazine will continue to follow this story as more details emerge about Mandisa’s death.
Editor’s note: This article was written with the assistance of A.I.