Grand Canyon University alumnus Chris Tungseth is set to appear on Season 24 of “American Idol,” performing in Hawaii on March 23. The episode will air at 7 p.m. Phoenix time on ABC.
Tungseth’s participation highlights the journey of a GCU graduate who grew up watching “American Idol” with his family and now takes the stage himself. The story resonates with many who use music as an outlet during difficult times and pursue their passions despite personal hardships.
“It’s all so surreal,” Tungseth said. “You are on set, you see the ‘American Idol’ sign, you see Ryan Seacrest (show host) and the judges and internally, you are just like, ‘What the heck?’ Going from watching people on ‘American Idol’ my whole life to then that being me, there is no way I can even wrap my brain around it.”
Tungseth’s musical background began early, influenced by his father, an opera singer and worship leader, and his mother, a pianist. Music played a central role in family life as they performed together at church while regularly watching “American Idol.” When faced with his mother’s multiple sclerosis diagnosis and later his father’s battle with leukemia—who passed away in 2023—Tungseth found solace in songwriting.
He pursued exercise science at Grand Canyon University after moving to Phoenix. “I have always wanted to go to GCU because I had a lot of friends in Phoenix. I wanted to turn over a new leaf and start a new season,” he said about joining GCU. After graduating in spring 2025, he was encouraged by friends to audition for “American Idol.” His original song “Lonely Road,” dedicated to his late father, moved both judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan during auditions.
“Initially, I was scared,” Tungseth said. “Not a lot of people outside my family knew about my life. I didn’t want to use a traumatic story to build a career. But at the same time, it’s a chance for me to reach a lot of people that have a similar story… My legacy is the same legacy my father had, and it is to know Jesus and love others.”
Grand Canyon University has received high rankings for its nursing programs as well as campus life according to its official website. The university centers on Christian values while offering undergraduate and graduate degrees across fields such as nursing, business and healthcare through flexible learning options according to its official website. GCU operates as a private Christian institution located in Phoenix according to its official website.
As viewers tune into tonight’s broadcast from Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii or stream episodes online later via Hulu or Disney+, Tungseth hopes sharing his story will connect him with others facing similar challenges.
