“Ryan Seacrest Chokes Up Sharing Josh King’s Inspiring Journey from Volunteer Musician to Star”

After 24-year-old American Idol contestant Josh King was eliminated from Season 23 on May 5, 2025, fans were heartbroken—but host Ryan Seacrest revealed a side of King that made America love him even more.

Just days after his emotional farewell, the Ryan Seacrest Foundation shared a touching Instagram video about King’s long history of selfless service—years before he ever stepped onto the Idol stage. It turns out that the Charlotte, North Carolina native wasn’t just a powerhouse vocalist—he was a volunteer musician at Levine Children’s Hospital, using his talent to bring joy to sick children.

A Humble Heart Behind the Spotlight

In the video, Seacrest reflected on King’s generous spirit—specifically an unforgettable moment when King tried to give up his spot in the Idol Top 7 so 16-year-old Mattie Pruitt could stay in the competition. “That’s just who he is,” the foundation captioned. “When he’s not performing for millions, he’s bringing music, laughter, and light to patients through ‘Tunes at Two’ in Seacrest Studios.”

Seacrest Studios, a multimedia center located inside Levine Children’s Hospital, is a safe space where kids can interact with celebrities, perform live, and just feel like kids again. King’s connection to the program runs deep—he started volunteering there in 2017 after his own sister was hospitalized.

“I’d bring my piano every Tuesday afternoon,” King recalled. “We called it ‘Tuesday Tunes at Two.’ Kids would come down from their rooms just to watch, sing along, and forget about what they were going through.”

Seacrest responded, visibly moved: “They laugh, they sing, and they smile. It’s incredible that you gave them that gift.”

A Legacy of Love and Music

The video montage includes clips of King playing for young patients over the years, as well as drawings and thank-you cards from kids and hospital staff—many of whom cheered him on during his American Idol journey. For King, it wasn’t about recognition; it was about giving back.

“It was such a rewarding experience,” he said. “I just wanted to do something good for the community.”

Seacrest praised King’s kindness: “You’re making a lot of kids and staff very happy, Josh. That’s something special.”

Fans React: “This Young Man Has a Beautiful Soul”

The reaction online was immediate and emotional. Fans flooded the comment section with love:

“Crying happy tears! Josh is so talented and such a kind person! Blessings follow those who bless others.”

“God knows his heart—he has good things in store for this sweet young man.”

“We need more people like him in the world.”

 

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Grateful to the End

After his elimination, King took to Instagram to express heartfelt gratitude—not just to fans, but to the people behind the scenes of American Idol.

“This show saved me,” he wrote. “I hope y’all understand just how much it means to be part of it. The production and crew were absolutely incredible. We wouldn’t have Idol without them.”

Even off-camera, King continues to inspire. A longtime volunteer piano player at Charlotte’s Douglas International Airport, he’s used every platform available—no matter how big or small—to spread light through music.

And while his Idol journey may have ended, it’s clear that for Josh King, the music—and the mission—are far from over.