18 Years After His Iconic Audition, William Hung Returns To ‘American Idol’ With Performance Of “She Bangs”

The Great Idol Reunion featured a surprise appearance from one of the most memorable American Idol contestants of all time: William Hung. The Season 3 contestant won over the hearts of millions with his now iconic Idol audition where he…

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Andrew Wendowski

Andrew Wendowski is the Founder and CEO of Music Mayhem. As a 29-year-old entrepreneur, he oversees content as the Editor-In-Chief for the independent brand. Wendowski, who splits time between Philadelphia, Penn., and Nashville, Tenn., has an extensive background in multimedia. Before launching Music Mayhem in 2014, he worked as a highly sought-after photojournalist and tour photographer, collaborating with such labels as Interscope Records and Republic Records. He has captured photos of some of the biggest names, including Taylor Swift, Metallica, Harry Styles, P!NK, Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Shania Twain, and hundreds more. Wendowski’s photos and freelance work have appeared nationwide and can be seen everywhere from ad campaigns to various publications, including Billboard and Rolling Stone. When Wendowski isn’t running Music Mayhem, he enjoys spending time at concerts, traveling, and capturing photos.

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Posted on May 2, 2022

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William Hung; Photo Courtesy of American Idol/ABC

The Great Idol Reunion featured a surprise appearance from one of the most memorable American Idol contestants of all time: William Hung.

The Season 3 contestant won over the hearts of millions with his now iconic Idol audition where he sang the Ricky Martin hit, “She Bangs.”

His appearance came as a total shock to American Idol viewers.

“You know, it really is great to look back and celebrate all that’s gone on in this very studio over the past 20 years. I can’t help but feel that someone is missing the party,” Seacrest teased. “Someone who helped put this show on the map, dare I say, the legend, whose very name is synonymous with American Idol.”

Seacrest then introduced Hung to the stage for a performance of the viral hit.

“I think you know who I’m talking about, Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome William Hung,” Seacrest said, as Idol judge Katy Perry freaked out saying, “Oh my God!”

Hung exploded onto the Idol stage with an energy-filled performance of the Martin tune.

Following Hung’s performance, he gave Idol viewers an update on what he’s been up to since the exiting the show.

He revealed to Seacrest that he is now a motivational speaker.

“I tell people, I believe everyone has a right to try something new without being judged or ridiculed.

The Great Idol Reunion featured a series of duets, where former Idol winners and contestants paired up with fellow Idol alum for one-of-a-kind collaborations.

Laci Kaye Booth, Laine Hardy, Jordin Sparks, Ruben Studdard, Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, David Cook, Kris Allen, Maddie Poppe, Caleb Lee Hutchinson, Willie Spence, David Archuleta, William Hung, Justin Guarini, and Grace Kinstler also returned to the Idol stage for performances during the show.

Former Idol judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson also made special appearances during the special.

American Idol airs every Sunday and Monday at 8/7c on ABC.

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Andrew Wendowski is the Founder and CEO of Music Mayhem. As a 29-year-old entrepreneur, he oversees content as the Editor-In-Chief for the independent brand. Wendowski, who splits time between Philadelphia, Penn., and Nashville, Tenn., has an extensive background in multimedia. Before launching Music Mayhem in 2014, he worked as a highly sought-after photojournalist and tour photographer, collaborating with such labels as Interscope Records and Republic Records. He has captured photos of some of the biggest names, including Taylor Swift, Metallica, Harry Styles, P!NK, Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Shania Twain, and hundreds more. Wendowski’s photos and freelance work have appeared nationwide and can be seen everywhere from ad campaigns to various publications, including Billboard and Rolling Stone. When Wendowski isn’t running Music Mayhem, he enjoys spending time at concerts, traveling, and capturing photos.

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