Devout: Singer David Archuleta on his journey to live authentically

David Archuleta has been on a yearslong journey to find himself. The pop star who catapulted to fame after finishing runner-up in season seven of “American Idol,” captured adoring audiences with his singing and musical prowess, but underneath was struggling with his identity. In his memoir “Devout: Losing My Faith to Find Myself,” Archuleta reveals untold stories of emotional abuse and life as a closeted teen in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. WBUR host and senior producer Amory Sivertson will moderate a discussion with Archuleta about his story coming out as a gay man in the LGBTQ community along with the heartbreak and joy of his newfound life living authentically.

Signed copies of the book will be available to purchase from our bookstore partner Brookline Booksmith.

About “Devout: Losing My Faith to Find Myself”

A raw and powerful coming-out story from the beloved “American Idol” finalist traces David Archuleta’s journey from closeted Mormon teen to global pop star to openly queer man, revealing the hidden pressures of fame, the weight of religious expectations and the courage it takes to live authentically.

At just 17, Archuleta rose to national fame as the runner-up on “American Idol” season seven, captivating millions with his angelic voice. Behind-the-scenes however, he was struggling with a truth he feared would destroy everything: He was attracted to men — and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In “Devout,” Archuleta takes you inside his deeply personal journey as a closeted Mormon teen turned international pop star, torn between faith, fame and identity. From dealing with the pressures of being on a hit television show to a domineering father who controlled every aspect of his career — even being banned from the show’s set — Archuleta reveals the emotional abuse and inner turmoil that he says plagued his childhood.

This searing memoir reflects on David’s ventures with “American Idol,” a tour with Demi Lovato, and a two year sabbatical as a missionary in South America, charting his path through heartbreak, estrangement, three engagements, thoughts of suicide and finally, his courageous decision to leave the Mormon Church in order to live authentically as a queer man. Featuring never-before-seen photos, “Devout” is a must-read for fans of pop culture, “American Idol” and anyone deconstructing their religious upbringing, or who’s ever wrestled with who they are versus who they’re told to be.

Ways To Save

WBUR’s Legacy Circle, Murrow Society, Sustainers and Members save $5.00 on tickets to this event. To apply the discount to your ticket purchase online, you’ll need to enter a promo code. You can get your code by emailing membership@wbur.org.

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