Emerson Phillips
William Hung made a glorious return Monday night to the show that brought him fame.
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Way back in season three of ‘American Idol,’ Hung won the hearts of millions with his now iconic audition in which he sang the Ricky Martin hit, “She Bangs.”
Fast forward 17 years, and Hung was back last night for ‘The Great Idol Reunion.’
“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,” show host Ryan Seacrest said. “Someone who helped put this show on the map, dare I say, the legend, whose very name is synonymous with American Idol.
I think you know who I’m talking about, ladies and gentlemen, please welcome William Hung!”
“Oh my God!,” Idol judge Katy Perry exclaimed, shocked to see Hung back on the show.
Hung burst onto the stage and gave an abbreviated, high-energy performance of the Martin hit that won him admiration so many years ago.
Then he gave Idol viewers an update on what he’s been up to since he left the show.
He’s now a motivational speaker.
“I tell people, I believe everyone has a right to try something new without being judged or ridiculed,” Hung told the audience.
A host of other Idol greats returned to the show Monday night, including 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, Justin Guarini, and Grace Kinstler.
Former Idol judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson also made special appearances during the show.
