William Hung: From “American Idol” Sensation to Crime Analyst

LOS ANGELES, California – It has been 20 years since William Hung’s unforgettable audition on “American Idol,” where his unique voice and unwavering confidence won the hearts of millions. While his fame has diminished over the years, there is still a dedicated fan base that continues to support him.

A Rollercoaster Journey

Hung’s life has been filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like his singing voice. After his viral audition in 2004, while still a student at the University of California Berkeley, he found himself thrust into the spotlight.

“I never anticipated becoming a household name overnight,” Hung recalled. “The day after my audition aired, I returned to school and suddenly people were asking for autographs and pictures. I was completely taken aback.”

In the years that followed, Hung capitalized on his newfound fame, making appearances and performing on popular shows like Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jimmy Kimmel. He even landed commercial deals, turning his off-pitch voice into a lucrative asset.

However, success came at a price. Hung made the decision to leave his job as a crime analyst for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to pursue a career as a professional poker player. This choice led him down a dangerous path of gambling addiction, resulting in the loss of his marriage and nearly destroying his life.

A Fresh Start

With the support of his family and friends, Hung managed to overcome his addiction and is now ready to return to his former position as a crime analyst. At 41 years old, he sees this as an opportunity for a new beginning.

“Returning to the sheriff’s department is a chance for me to start a new future,” Hung expressed with optimism.

Despite the ups and downs, William Hung’s journey serves as a reminder that success can come in unexpected ways, and it’s never too late to turn your life around.