'American Idol' Winner Turns Heads With 115-Pound Weight Loss

American Idol winner Iam Tongi showed off a dramatic body transformation this week at the Lilo & Stitch world premiere in Los Angeles.

Tongi, who has a song in the new live-action Lilo & Stitch film, told reporters that he has lost 115 pounds and that he “feels amazing” after his dramatic weight loss. 

Tongi gave credit to his personal trainer for helping him stay on track with his health and weight-loss goals.

“We have a workout session maybe around 11, come back [home], and we go to an ice bath or sauna,” he told People magazine.

“And then we come back, shower and go on a walk. And I’ve lost 115 pounds. It feels amazing. I feel great.”

Tongi was the champion of season 21 of American Idol in 2023 where he beat Megan Danielle and Colin Stough in the final. But despite the competition, he says that he has a close relationship with them.

“Honestly, if it wasn’t for these guys and all my family and our friends, I would … I don’t know if I would stay humble, because these guys taught me every day that I’m useless — I’m just kidding,” Tongi previously told People magazine. “Honestly, we laugh a lot.”

As for his music career, Tongi revealed that he has moved out to Tennessee, where he is working on a new album.

“I moved out to Memphis, so I’ve been working out, writing, recording, and just been busy — but in a different way,” he said.

“I’m working on an album, actually, so I’m excited about that, and we’ll see how that goes. I’m inspired by a lot of soul. I love Al Green. Al Green is one of my favorite singers, so I’m excited for that [single].”

Clearly, things have been going well for Tongi since his American Idol victory.