William Hung was born on January 13, 1983 in Hong Kong, China. He moved to the United States with his family when he was young, and eventually settled in Los Angeles, California. Hung attended the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, where he pursued a degree in civil engineering. Despite his academic achievements, Hung decided to follow his passion for music and dropped out of college to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
In 2004, William Hung gained national attention when he auditioned for the third season of the hit television show American Idol. His memorable performance of Ricky Martin's song "She Bangs" made him an overnight sensation, despite not making it past the initial audition round. Hung's positive attitude and undeniable charisma endeared him to audiences around the country, leading to numerous television appearances on shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Following his American Idol debut, William Hung signed a record deal and released his debut album, Inspiration, in 2004. The album featured covers of popular songs, as well as a few original tracks. Hung's unique style and infectious personality helped him cultivate a dedicated fan base, and he followed up his debut album with a holiday release titled Hung for the Holidays later that year.
In 2014, William Hung married Jian Teng, his longtime girlfriend. The couple has maintained a relatively low profile since their wedding, choosing to focus on their relationship away from the spotlight. Despite his fame and success in the music industry, Hung values his privacy and prefers to keep his personal life out of the public eye.
Although William Hung's time in the spotlight was relatively short-lived, his impact on popular culture is undeniable. His unapologetic embrace of his own unique talent and his unwavering positivity in the face of criticism inspired countless aspiring artists and performers. Hung's legacy serves as a reminder that success in the entertainment industry is not always determined by traditional standards, but by passion, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks.