On April 18, 2024, Mandisa Hundley, a Grammy-winning singer and alum of “American Idol,” passed away at the age of 47. An autopsy report confirmed that her death was due to complications from severe obesity, also known as class III obesity. The report was obtained by People magazine.
Severe obesity, or class III obesity, is a medical term used to describe individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more, accompanied by obesity-related health conditions such as type two diabetes or heart disease. The medical officials concluded that Mandisa’s death was of natural causes and there was no evidence of foul play.
Mandisa, whose full name was Mandisa Lynn Hundley, gained fame in 2006 when she competed in Season 5 of “American Idol,” finishing in the top nine. She was known for her powerful voice and moving performances. Despite receiving criticism from judge Simon Cowell about her weight, she persevered and continued to pursue her musical career.
After her time on “American Idol,” Mandisa went on to have a successful career in contemporary Christian music. Her debut album, “True Beauty,” was released in 2007 and quickly rose to number one on the Top Christian Albums chart. In 2014, her album “Overcomer,” which featured a hit single of the same name, earned her a Grammy Award.
The news of Mandisa’s death has greatly saddened her family, friends, and fans. Her father, John Hundley, revealed that she was found in her home in Nashville, Tennessee, and had last been seen alive three weeks prior. “She brought immense joy to our family and our lives, and we will miss her every day,” he stated. The autopsy report, which showed no signs of self-harm, supported his understanding of his daughter’s death.
In a recent episode, “American Idol” paid tribute to Mandisa. Former contestants and close friends Melinda Doolittle, Colton Dixon, and Danny Gokey performed “Shackles (Praise You)” by Mary Mary, a song Mandisa had performed on the show. “Mandisa was a fan of people. She was a cheerleader for other people’s music,” Gokey mentioned in an Instagram post. Doolittle added, “Mandisa was the most enthusiastic supporter anyone could have. Her cheerfulness was unmatched, and she lifted everyone around her.”
Mandisa’s influence was not limited to her music. She was transparent about her struggles with weight, depression, and trauma, and used her platform to support others facing similar challenges. Her memoir, “Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy,” chronicled her struggles and victories, sparking discussions about mental health.
