American Idol

David Hernandez Speaks Post-Elimination

One of American Idol's earliest front runners, David Hernandez, who also gained notoriety when his past as an exotic dancer in a gay club surfaced, says he was genuinely surprised to be voted off before the Bottom 3, but he says it has nothing to do with his former career. Find out what else he has to say in this post-elimination interview.

I’m going to be on Ellen and the Today show. I’d love to do Broadway, but most importantly, I want a record out in the next year.

I don’t think it was cut short because people were uncomfortable with my past as an exotic dancer. When you interview for American Idol, they ask you about your past. If they weren’t comfortable with my past, then I wouldn’t have been there.

I’ve learned that all is fair in love, war and entertainment. Vocals are very important, but at this point, everything is based on song selection. Some people just have bigger fan bases. Even when you’re in the top 24, millions of people are watching you. If I was to give advice, I’d say, “Never doubt yourself, always go with your instinct and usually your first song selection is the right one."

I’m going to keep shopping for a record deal. This isn’t the end of David Hernandez.