William Hung - American Idol 'She Bangs' extended audition - season 3 2004

"Everything about it was grotesque. You can't sing, you can't dance, so what are you going to say?" - Simon Cowell
I tried to stay positive so I can walk away with my head held high.
Little did I know, this was my life defining moment.
Stay in touch!
IG: WilliamHungOfficial
TikTok: WilliamHungOfficial

[@MarketingMelodie]

I love that this audition has lived on for so many years to continue inspiring people around the world.

[@WilliamHungOfficial]

Thanks Melodie!

[@bryanferguson4927]

Yes and ironically, still one of the best known and loved performers, ever on American Idol.

[@sovietonion72]

@@WilliamHungOfficial It's a yes from me 🤣

[@miamijefe7793]

Maybe y'all should go out on a date?

[@RyantheCanuckpirate]

I watched this as a kid. I was born in 1991, so this pure nostalgia for me. I didn't even watch the show a ton, just the first few seasons This guy seems cool, hope he's doing really good these days

[@BlameTheMedia]

I can't name anyone who actually won this show, but I always remember William Hung.

[@BreGrateful]

Kelly Clarkson 👀

[@holdem5180]

Yes it is great for a laugh , he was a joke ,and i am not saying anything bad about him , i also remember Carrie and her farm animal chores.....

[@lostchild06]

@@BreGrateful Who? lol jk

[@alexanderwright5248]

Carrie Underwhere??

[@DisneyWorldFix]

You can’t name Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, or Chris Daughtry? Well, Chris didn’t win, but he is one of the most successful non-winners.

[@artemioolivas5689]

“I already gave my best and have no regrets at all” What a response. William is an absolute legend.

[@samwrought5650]

💯

[@Captain_Neckbeard]

That's a great mindset.

[@leeknievel748]

Uhhhh, yeahhh he's not

[@dimitrijames00001]

​@leeknievel748 you're here aren't you

[@dwnrange7812]

For a 'failed' audition, WH has had more success than most Idol winners

[@jlacson74]

Paula Abdul handled all this with pure class. Good on her.

[@fonzieskatesurf]

Smash ❣️

[@j-tenn226]

@@fonzieskatesurfsmash what?

[@tacomaamocat4309]

And then she used Mexican labor workers as chairs ; )

[@danielchala1621]

Yeah she did. That was her womanly mothering instincts though.

[@jerryp7721]

William Hung is literally one of the top 5 all-time Idol stars. More famous than most winners.

[@andrewvanwechel2426]

There's like 2 winners I can remember. William is a beast

[@BreGrateful]

When I was a kid this was hilarious but as a adult he wasn’t that bad. He just was a little awkward like most college kids and I love how he came to America and chased his dreams even if it was taking a risk. He’s actually inspiring.

[@ExplorationB]

I know right!!

[@coleusmc1979]

I feel the same way, so crazy

[@hannahroberts673]

Yeah, he obviously wasn't a great singer, but he was far from the worst that ever auditioned on this show.

[@jak3140]

I’m with y’all he did his best

[@charlenealberto84]

So true! He was on key!

[@NeonKC]

William Hung was a national sensation. Absolute legend

[@worsethanhitlerpt.2539]

Hes an interesting guy he said he never got depressed from being on AI but he was depressed when he could not be a teacher because the kids didnt take him seriously

[@all_powerful_elmo]

😂

[@tonypastor705]

chaja95- yeah, we believe you 😅

[@aarondavid5866]

for being a joke

[@brandonsmith2299]

He still is. And I hope he’s doing good! That level of determination is lost today. But if you got that. Nothing in life can stop you. And the fun fact of all this.. he did it for fun… he knew he didn’t really have a chance… and he made millions and millions of people laugh. So for that Will thank you!

[@JoeyArmstrong2800]

I was a young man when I first saw this. I'm now almost 45 and I recognize this moment as a nostalgic era of my life. Thank you William Hung.

[@DemonicGoddess]

I look back an simon hasnt aged...

[@aveirenses]

Bro I looked this up and apparently this guy is related to Confucius… how wild is that

[@limkientiong]

43 here. Uni days when I came across him. 😂

[@aveirenses]

@@anjr6282 look him up on Wikipedia

[@JoeyArmstrong2800]

​@@limkientiongI can't believe this was almost 20 years ago.

[@ChipDouglas10]

Even though he didn't make it he is remembered almost by everyone who watched Idols and in a positive way. What a legend

[@Nightowl7982]

He low key won that years American Idol

[@shawnroney7449]

He’s totally toured and made albums. He’s made it to me. Even been on David letterman and that’s no easy task

[@abcdefg-oj5wn]

I come back to this video year after year, not just cause it makes me laugh but his authenticity and courage inspires me.

[@weirdalpopovich]

the "i have no professional training" line at the end was so perfect, took guts to do this

[@Tgogators]

Ironic enough, Idol has quietly dismissed contestants for having “too much professional background”

[@amihan99]

​@@Tgogatorswho are the contestants like those?

[@MayLily]

@@Tgogators I've always wondered about those individuals with a lot of professional training and experience that still wanted to audition.

[@Tgogators]

@@amihan99 you’d never know because they don’t make tv. They usually don’t make it to the tv taping audition.

[@94XJ]

Coming back almost 20 years later...he's really not that bad. He hits and holds most notes and even has a little vibrato. I've worked with worse in the studio!

[@elitetrucker5150]

You are the type that’s will take someone’s money and say they are getting better

[@worsethanhitlerpt.2539]

She Bangs is not really a bad song for him. The slow Ballads really kill him his voice sounds hella awkward

[@francismonroe969]

Yeah his delivery is choppy as hell but he actually hits the notes which is better than most and shows innate musical ability. If someone helped him flesh out the dynamics he could be good.

[@zaragozamarketing]

Agreed. He’s way better then a lot of people. Notes are pretty good

[@Beebzinthehouse]

@@worsethanhitlerpt.2539oh stop it. His pitch is amazing, the delivery needs work. This is a case of a person who actually CAN be trained to be great. Tone deaf people just can’t, and he very clearly displayed (even with those minor notes) that he has musical talent in him. Just needs help w the delivery

[@lesihei6869]

I love how Paula told Simon to be quiet at the end when he questioned you if you were serious. Because you truly were serious. And you gave a great answer in regards to you sacrificing your time and effort to be there to audition. What a wonderful spirit you have William! God bless you!

[@bvabildtrup]

"grotesque" is such a ridiculous overstatement for someone not sounding like a professional singer.

[@katharsis3754]

Well, let me remind you of what Simon said --> 3:55. "What do you want me to say?"

[@yomiwilliams4368]

I love how Paula was just dancing along- straight up 😂😂😂😂

[@brocklee1996]

Funny thing is that he's the only contestant that still resignates with me from all the seasons of American Idol

[@jrssww]

Resonates*

[@andrewferguson8032]

@@jrsswwI believe “resignates “ would be the appropriate word in this context

[@jrssww]

@andrewferguson8032 no it isn't. Resignate basically means forcing an employee to resign

[@andrewferguson8032]

@@jrssww I know. I was joking

[@hanyello2056]

this guy came and was just himself, probably an escape from the hardwork he goes through outside, got more confidence and self esteem than ALOT of people already

[@mrog5481]

Took it like a man. William you have bigger balls than most. Respect!

[@aliceinwonderland3229]

Paula is the absolute sweetest. I just love her compassion n sweetness and how she doesnt want to destroy someones hopes n dreams like Simon does. Shes so adoreable.

[@thepainfuljournee]

I met Paula Abdul in real life back in 2018, she's one of the most humble and down-to-earth humans have ever been in contact with. She's been my role model since I was nine years old, I'm 30 now.

[@jacktorrance2633]

Dude got a record deal, made a few albums and guest starred on a few TV shows. Pretty sweet for not making it past the first round!

[@ghambino1]

This man is a legend and what a wonderful example for the rest of us when people try to take us down with their negativity.

[@dougb4835]

All joking aside, he wasn't horrible. Relative to his potential ceiling, he's probably gotten closer to it than most of us have to our own potential. I can tell he has worked very hard on his performance. And that's to be respected. You go William!

[@holdem5180]

Shouldn"t you be out on a ledge somewhere?

[@dougb4835]

@@holdem5180 you’re trying too hard.

[@PleatherGirl]

William Hung is a legend.

[@MrYoumitube]

William is a legend and is probably remembered by more than 90% of the winners of American Idol. He had fun and he entertained us. Thank you.

[@pcgamersbtw8721]

Randy's chuckle and glance over at Simon when William spelt his last name out 😂

[@nube1302]

The Legendary Willam hung. He's more popular that the other winners

[@Faith.is.Awake.notwoke]

How can you not love William Hung? ❤❤❤ Paula is so sweet. 😘

[@fonzieskatesurf]

for Smash

[@katharsis3754]

What's to "love"? Lmao

[@cadebecker2486]

This was actually better than most music now days.

[@IvnValmont]

This was a good day for china and the fourth fucking depression for America

[@herculesbrofister265]

Sigh

[@SmeagolTheGreat]

Better rapping than those mumble rappers 😂

[@areanaangel8964]

I came here from the Oh My God performance on My Teenage Girl survival show and William was 100x better. Wow. It's not even as bad as I remember it. It was kind of good actually

[@markpreston6930]

You are a fool. There are thousands of kick ass current bands. Led Zeppelin sucks.

[@megstasy]

The fact that William HIMSELF is the one who posted the video makes me so happy. Mad respect, you’re a legend in a super cool shirt! 👕 You poured out your heart that day and I hope you put that same heart into designing bridges for good citizens, as a civil engineer 🫡👏🏻 Forever in out hearts 🙏🏻

[@anthonyzamudio7741]

Thank you William hung. You are a national treasure brother.

[@mbrow]

Mr. Hung, we remember you and that audition. Your positive attitude about doing your best inspired everyone so much. You are likely the most successful idol who never actually made it past auditions, and we bet that whenever people think of your appearance, they smile! We wish that more people in the world were just like you, and hope that your life now is filled with joy and songs. Thank you!

[@holdem5180]

Smile ? I love him , he makes me lol

[@dttra566]

Paula Abdul is such a great sport. She knows he doesn't sing well but instead of making fun of him or being put off by it, she still chooses to listen to him, give him the time of the day and respect him for his efforts. Good for her! She's got such a great personality. Love the positive attitude of William Hung.

[@onmas909]

Simon is a wet blanket. I am glad you took his passive message of "do homework" as you will continue to work hard rather than his negative attitude

[@shubs3566]

Simon is a wannabe alpha male - but just comes across as a piece of turd instead.

[@uk7900]

He did his very best. What a sparkly gift of positivity he’s got! 🎉 BRAVO

[@gioiaferrante]

Still, in 2024, I have to say, even though @William Hung isn't a singer, and I have been in the industry since I was eight. I worked with Paula. I admire Willan so much because he admitted he put his best into it, and he is true, not fake. I laugh, and god knows we all need to laugh, so I thank him for even making me laugh in a world that is so cruel. It is not hard to be kind, so thank you @William Hung. Willam truly is an American Idol. Look how many of us still watch him just to smile. That's a William Hung - American Idol to all of us.

[@carmenascheid144]

There is something so innocent, and sweet about William. For ever an iconic audition. No one really remembers the others, but we all remember William

[@kylesykrebs]

I don’t even watch American Idol but I know William Hung. What a f*kin legend. 🍻

[@bryanferguson4927]

Amazing story. A clear example of courage and giving it your best in life!

[@WereWolf2583]

William Hung is The Best & Most Awesome #1 American Idol ever! William Hung will Always be Destined for Greatness! #WILLIAMHUNGISTHEBESTEVER!

[@WilliamHungOfficial]

Appreciate your support!

[@WereWolf2583]

I Really Wished Paula had Slapped The Heck Out of Simon Cowell for Being So Rude & HeartLess! Simon Cowell is The Rudest, Dumbest, & Pickiest Idiot ever! He Refused to Recognize Greatness Standing & Singing Before Him!

[@bryanferguson4927]

@@WereWolf2583 I disagree in this instance. The fact that Simon was so rude, gave better publicity, and showed the true resilience and courage of William. In spite of Simon's brusqueness, William was as cool as the other side of the pillow. And his legend grew...

[@odoroussmegma2191]

​@@WilliamHungOfficiali love you like son will I am.

[@sharp.x]

I remember seeing this when it aired on TV when I was a kid and I loved it. I think it was so charming because he was so genuine and quirky. Love this audition lol

[@josephlewis9237]

I like him. He's entertaining, he's got really good attitude, I like the way he spoke to Simon and I think he should have his own show. I think he should either be a stand up comedian or an entertainer. Or maybe even an actor.

[@WilliamHungOfficial]

Thanks man! I'll be launching my own podcast later this year. Stay tuned!

[@jimbooo1365]

He may not have gotten through, but with his enthusiasm, attitude and smile he's making the world smile 20 years later.

[@aim6613]

And thus a star was born

[@diannadolly]

I love him he’s so cute

[@ukulele_cheri]

I'm proud that you took the chance and auditioned. It took great courage and despite not making the cut, I loved it! You're a hero in my book.

[@Beebzinthehouse]

Coming from a person who has sang since I was out of the womb, you hit every note and pretty damn well! Even minor notes and with no prior training? I give that an 11/10! Anyway Simon’s opinion doesn’t matter his face is melting off and he is a grumpy old crow. I LOVE YOU WILL YOU ROCK!

[@LindaBlake10]

It's been over 10 years and I still remember this moment. It was iconic, ICONIC. UP there with Susan Boyle in Britian's Got Talent. One of the best memories that came out of American Idol

[@sashlipinski7034]

If only every human was this genuine.

[@rc....]

Most unforgettable audition ever 😂❤

[@mikey6538]

paula.. she is so kind and a great person

[@djnoy842]

She is so nice!

[@pfloydsux]

The way this guy had a chokehold on all of us in 2004

[@ad60924]

I like to say he has balls to go on here like that awee🤣💀😍🥰

[@michaelnotigan7796]

After all these years, still the best. The most sincere, down to earth contestant to come along. With his head properly grounded, too (missing 2 days of classes to attend this audition was a big deal for William as he was seeing the bigger picture in life). As so many said here, William is probably the most remembered of all the contestants.......and the reason as to why is cause in William, we see much of ourselves up there.

[@failureguypodcast3551]

I'm so glad this still exists and even had the extended version. I love you William ♥

[@charlie-zc6bj]

I was 14 yr old when I saw this audition now I'm 33 and I love it

[@FoigTCG]

I remember a lot of my friends used to make fun of him when this aired, but so many of them weren’t (and still aren’t) able to stay in key, but William does it effortlessly. Glad to know he’s still singing and even making videos for people :)

[@sarahlee2121]

William’s charm is that he is so sincere and pure. Simon…. not so much!

[@indigomoon777]

Actually, it’s the song choice. William actually sings ok. I am grateful for William Hung as a cultural phenomenon.

[@idonthaveone50]

He sings better than me, i dont get why this was so blown out of proportion at the time

[@margob6203]

I saw William’s audition when it originally aired. First let me say that he is an absolute sweetheart with a lovely personality. He’s a genuinely good guy who does not have the laughably inflated ego as so many other contestants do. He’s also a highly intelligent guy-civil engineering is not a subject for the faint-hearted. Having said that, most of the comments here are missing the point entirely! American Idol is not about being “okay,” “decent,” “not bad,” “it was his dancing, not his voice,” etc etc. And it’s not just about the ability to hit the right notes-it’s also about style and delivery, being able to perform in a way that doesn’t make your audience anxious. One of the main reason why so many people remember William’s performance is not because it was so good but because it was so bad, and I say that not to be mean but to state a fact. Another is that despite not being cut out to be a singer who could succeed in the business (which is cutthroat and would eat him alive), he intends to continue doing something he loves despite the criticism and being made fun of. For that I say: William, you are a true champ! You may not have achieved recognition for your singing abilities, but you have gone on to inspire so many people to continue doing what they love despite their dreams not coming true. THAT is very special indeed!

[@alphabetacanton]

We still love you William, for all the joy and inspiration you brought!

[@nataliecavalli331]

To be honest, almost every note was spot on. Pretty good:) Perhaps not a professional singer performance - but passionate, entertaining and sweet! 🌞

[@oscarandrade2780]

Seriously though!

[@AdamStacey]

Exactly. William hit all the right pitches and the melody was actually pretty challenging. What does it say about Simon and Randy that these judges couldn’t distinguish between someone singing the notes correctly or not?

[@JJLewis-so1iq]

Oh William! You look so handsome and grown up! Hope you are being successful. You were honestly my favorite audition that didn't make it through

[@this_is_NOT_a_test]

Believe that an Asian is SERIOUS about something when he misses 2 DAYS of school for it!!!

[@Bubba603]

He’s worth a half million

[@13nikedunks]

What’s your point?

[@DW-op7ly]

Well it was make fun of the Asian guy. But then he did make money off of it all. And got his 15 minutes. There are actors we see all the time in movies we couldn't name

[@sydneykochan2388]

William, you are loved by the entirety of America and the rest of the world. An international treasure truly. I don’t even know the original song, your version always comes to mind and makes me happy!! We love you!!! Thank you for always inspiring us and putting a smile on our faces!!!❤

[@CrazyLocoInsane1]

This guy definitely has courage and that’s all that matters.

[@the78wildcat]

I really enjoyed this performance. Great job, William! 👏👏👏👏

[@angela9133]

Legendary, William🙌 I think missing those 2 days of school was totally worth it for this legendary moment!

[@missld6856]

Everyone loved this from William hung and no one forgets his amazing genuine attitude!

[@mojojojo114]

This my very favorite American Idol audition and moment. William Hung is a BOSS!

[@youknow2849]

Such a classic clip. If you need a genuine smile watch this video. Respect for having the balls to step up. Your the man William!

[@user-pc8yn1dk9q]

15年前、デトロイトのCDショップで彼のアルバムを見つけて以来、彼の歌声が頭から離れません。

[@sipwhitemocha]

As Asian immigrant to America, you're my inspriational William. It was rough learning English with accent growing up and adopting here, and the fact that this guy didn't give a F on a national television was more gangster than any rappers i heard about

[@jacintonegro]

Finally The whole Audition, you are a legend Mister William Hung very cool.

[@Mikenba99]

I will never forget this, you sir are a legend

[@basedmenace1727]

Say whatever you want about William Hung… there’s plenty. But he was actually on key, he gave it his all and had no regrets. Positive until the very end and he actually built something from this. That’s the American Dream.

[@isobellacaruso6942]

This brings me SO MUCH JOY.

[@braintriangle]

This opening sequence is wonderful and inspiring. The believe the dream factor is total. So many of us never even strap on our shoes for the unknown journey we feel destined for. Much respect for the bravery and commitment.

[@sadem1045]

You've had such an impressive career. I think Paula, Randy and even Simon would be proud of all you've accomplished.

[@rickimhotep1236]

Man. I miss these days. American Idol was at the top. EVERYBODY was watching. We still applaud you William.

[@chriscontreraz2482]

Will, I loved your spirit. After so many years and so many seasons, this is one of the most memorable moments of the show. It’s those who don’t try who regret, not those who try.

[@figuenew]

You won many hearts William! so you're definitely a winner and a great inspiration! Kudos to you bro! ✌🏻

[@storminite2041]

Thank you, William, for brightening my day. I enjoy watching your videos. They remind me that anything is possible if you put your heart into it. You totally motivated me today, and I am grateful. Best wishes and much love, ❤️ Stormi

[@WilliamHungOfficial]

Thank you for your support!

[@aig1111]

William Hung inspired many people who can’t sing or has any talent to participate in these talent shows.

[@veronicao4643]

I remember watching this with my grandmother and both of us had tears rolling down our faces from laughing. Love you William! Miss you Abulita!

[@NorthernWisconsinandStuff]

By far the best video on KZbin. I truly mean that. This is an example of character. Give your best doing something you believe in. Consequences be darned. I would be proud to call anyone who has half the values of Mr. Hung my friend. This was the only episode I ever watched of this show as it aired. I will remember this performance until the day I die.

[@jasonhughes2305]

I appreciated Simon's bluntness 20 years ago, but watching this again today makes me feel bad for the inner pain he must of been masking with his cruelty.

[@yeskaitlyn8029]

Isn’t it something. Everyone who is “edgy” or cruel ends up being the ones who are struggling the most

[@robertjonez5]

3:10 All 3 are bobbing along with him including Simon lol you can't say he wasn't entertaining.

[@dyrectory_com]

The announcement of the 20th anniversary of William's audition brought me here! Glad I'm here. Head up high, as always William! Thanks for your ability to put a smile on our faces and for giving us someone to root for, for that also mean we're rooting for ourselves too!

[@NipponKiwi]

Thanks William! I enjoyed it! You have balls! Cheers from New Zealand

[@Sabi1234567890Asdf]

I remember watching this and almost dying of laughter as a kid.

[@petepyeatt6909]

It’s not Christmas unless I listen to Hung For the Holidays.

[@timberwolvesxx7250]

Hi William you did well and what a great experience to perform in front of millions of viewers. you have my respect sir

[@coastaltherapist]

I absolutely LOVE William Hung!❤. He is seems so genuine in his singing! Such an inspiration🥰😍. His audition is my favorite American Idol episode ever!!!❤❤

[@thatfitnessky]

Dudes a legend 🙌

[@Foofightersgirl666]

I remember watching his audition, I was fourteen 😂. He’s still legendary.

[@CoryHatfield]

You were the best contestant they ever had. I still have your "Hangin' With Hung" DVD from back in the day.

[@PersephoneRising333]

I got a t-shirt w/ William’s quote on it back in ‘04 I think, and I still wear it Bc it’s a mindset I still follow today! Great attitude and positive thinking- Love it!

[@akgstone]

Paula Is so sweet

[@kingeddiex2]

Came from druski

[@julietinker6564]

one of my favorite idol contestants. i admire your positive and sweet attitude. you are a true idol. ❤️ i wish everyone resembled mr. hung

[@evilflower]

I am the same age as you William and I laughed at you when I first saw this. It's 20 years late but I am sorry; what you did took tremendous guts and you faced it head on without regret amidst heavy criticism and that's something we all can learn and strive to be. You were a badass for doing that.