Mandisa American Idol tribute episode: How to watch
“American Idol” will pay a musical tribute Monday night to Mandisa, the former competitor whose death at age 47 in April shocked fans.
Mandisa Hundley finished ninth in the show’s fifth season, and the experience launched her to Grammy-winning status as a gospel and contemporary Christian artist. She was found dead in her Nashville-area home on April 18; a cause of death has not been revealed, though police in Franklin, Tenn., said they did not suspect foul play.
During the “American Idol” episode that aired April 21 — the first show after her death was reported — viewers were told that a tribute would come this week. Billboard.com and other industry sources reported Monday that the April 29 episode will feature three “Idol” alums.
“The performance will take place during Monday night’s Judge’s Song round of the show when Melinda Doolittle (season six), Danny Gokey (season eight) and Colton Dixon (season 11) will come together to sing one of Mandisa’s favorite songs, ‘Shackles’ by gospel duo Mary Mary,” said a report at Billboard.com.
Billboard quoted a statement from the show’s producers: “Mandisa was an adored icon on American Idol and in the music industry. She had become a platinum-selling artist and had won [a Grammy] for her music. Her passing has left everyone on the show heartbroken, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family.”
“American Idol” airs at 7 p.m. Central time Sundays and Mondays on ABC. The April 29 episode will see the field of eight singers — including Triston Harper, a 15-year-old from southwest Alabama — narrowed to seven. Another competitor from Alabama, Mia Matthews of Centre, was eliminated in Sunday night’s episode.
Those without basic cable can still live stream new episodes of American Idol on Sundays with Fubo and DirecTV Stream.