William Hung, the former ”American Idol” contestant who became a viral sensation in 2004, recently opened up about his struggles with a gambling addiction and the subsequent collapse of his marriage. The 41-year-old UC Berkeley engineering student catapulted to fame with his off-key rendition of Ricky Martin’s She Bangs during the show’s third season. Despite the harsh criticism from judge Simon Cowell, Hung maintained a positive attitude and embraced his unexpected fame.
Hung’s viral moment led to a brief musical career, including the release of his album ”Inspiration”, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts. He also dabbled in acting and appeared in commercials, Chinese films, and even on shows like Arrested Development. However, as the novelty of his fame wore off, opportunities dwindled, prompting Hung to return to school and earn a degree and MBA in mathematics. He then found work as a statistical analyst at the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department.
Three years ago, craving a change and enticed by the potential earnings, Hung chose to become a professional poker player. While initially successful, the path eventually led him down a dark road. Hung developed a gambling addiction, shifting from poker to sports betting and other forms of gambling. The consequences were devastating, resulting in the dissolution of his marriage.
Hung reached a breaking point when his ex-wife discovered his addiction. The financial strain and emotional toll led to her asking for a divorce. Reflecting on this period, Hung shared that he learned a valuable lesson about risk-taking and the importance of making smart choices. It was a wake-up call that caused him to reevaluate his life.
Following this turbulent period, Hung found the strength to rebuild his life once again. He married his current wife, Hannah, last year and returned to his former job as a data analyst for the Sheriff’s Department. Hung also remains active in the entertainment industry, taking on side projects and continuing his popular Cameo appearances.
Despite facing numerous obstacles, Hung’s positive attitude remains a guiding principle in his life. He views unexpected challenges as opportunities for growth and looks for the good in every situation. As a motivational speaker, Hung emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, expecting the unexpected, and reframing negative experiences into positive ones.
Hung’s journey serves as a reminder that fame can be fleeting, but stability and personal growth matter most. While he still entertains audiences with his iconic audition song, ”She Bangs”, Hung is focused on providing for his family and finding fulfillment in his career. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity.
