From 'Idol' to Icon: David Archuleta Celebrates His New Queer Voice on Social Media

"American Idol" fans from the late 2000s will likely remember David Archuleta's adorable and talented performances. The Miami native displayed a genuine love for his craft and captured the attention of millions worldwide with his voice and disarming smile. His signature song, "Crush," ironically held a deeper meaning regarding novel romantic feelings for someone. Meanwhile, Archuleta was secretly struggling with a confusion over his sexuality that was exacerbated by the strict teachings of the Mormon Church.

Archuleta came out as LGBTQ+ in 2021, later saying he identifies as queer, and has continued to fluidly navigate his sexuality with honesty and humor on social media, especially TikTok. As he experiences queer awakenings for the first time in his 30s, Archuleta has brought his fans along on his journey of self-discovery. While some people might be ashamed of becoming late bloomers, the singer has used his music and optimism to show that it's never too late to be your true self.

Being religious and queer can be one of the most complicated identities in the world. Archuleta's most recent song, "Hell Together," eloquently expresses his realization that his family was willing to step away from the damaging parts of Mormonism together for his sake. Archuleta's song is a powerful rejection of this horror and an acceptance to only live for the tangible love of his family in the present.

Archuleta takes fans behind the scenes of his music video for another of his sexually liberating songs, "I'm Yours." The combination of upbeat tempo, colorful lights, and clothing makes the musical experience an amalgamation of Archuleta's freedom from the drab doldrums of the closet. Fans express their pride in Archuleta and hope he can continue to heal from his past trauma with the mirth of music.

@davidarchie I just felt like doing this idk why 😂 🌦️ @Natasha Bedingfield ♬ Unwritten - Natasha Bedingfield

Paying homage to pop royalty Natasha Bedingfield, Archuleta slays a lip-sync rendition of "Unwritten." He feels the rain on his shirtless body and shows the fans that he might take a dip in the swimming pool despite the bad weather.

@davidarchie I'm an ex-Mormon, of course... 🤷🏻‍♂️ #HellTogether link in bio. #newmusic ♬ Hell Together - David Archuleta

Archuleta joins one of TikTok's most recent trends with his own spin: "I'm an ex-Mormon, of course I..." He gently pokes fun at some of the restrictive measures the faith asks of their followers, from abstaining from sex to never drinking alcohol. Other former Mormons in the comments section got a good kick out of it, and agreed with his sentiments. It's wonderful for Archuleta to inspire others who felt like him to walk away from religions that may have put locks on people's true selves.