American Idol’s David Archuleta almost ended his life over sexuality struggles
David Archuleta (Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
American singer and songwriter David Archuleta revealed that, at one point, he considered ending his life whilst struggling to reconcile his sexuality with his Mormon faith.
The American Idol runner-up, who is queer, tried to repress his attraction to men growing up and throughout his 20s – even getting engaged several times to women.
Archuleta shared that in 2021, after years of praying to change, he reached a breaking point and planned to die by suicide.
“I was almost willing to give my life up because I was so devoted to what I believed,” Archuleta told People, adding that when he was at his lowest, God told him to accept himself.
“It wasn’t until then that I was like, ‘I almost took it too far.’”
Now 35, Archuleta first rose to stardom in 2008 on the seventh season of American Idol. He was beat by David Cook.
Since, he has released eight studio albums, the most recent being “Therapy Sessions” in 2020, and eight EPs, releasing “Earthly Delights” and “My Only Wish” in 2025.
In recent years, he has opened up about his sexuality and love life, using a number of different labels before seemingly settling on queer in 2025.
He told People at the time: “For the most part, I date men, but I consider myself queer, so I’m still open to meeting girls.
“I still do, if it feels right.”
Readers affected by the issues raised in this story are encouraged to contact Samaritans free on 116 123 (www.samaritans.org) or Mind on 0300 123 3393 (www.mind.org.uk). Readers in the US are encouraged to contact the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.
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