'American Idol' Winner Iam Tongi Reveals 115 Pound Weight Loss Journey
Iam Tongi is opening up about his dramatic weight loss journey.
The 20-year-old American Idol Season 21 winner attended the world premiere of Lilo & Stitch on Saturday (May 17), where he got candid about his progress after losing 115 pounds.
Iam confirmed he’s been “working on myself” and “trying to stay healthy” in a conversation with People.
He revealed that most of his days include a fitness routine with a personal trainer.
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“We have a workout session maybe around 11, come back [home], and we go to an ice bath or sauna … or whatever it is. And then we come back, shower and go on a walk,” he explained, adding: “And I’ve lost 115 lbs. It feels amazing. I feel great.”
Iam Tongi in December 2023 and May 2025
At the same time, he’s also working on his music.
“I moved out to Memphis, so I’ve been working out, writing, recording, and just been busy — but in a different way,” he explained.
“I’m working on an album, actually, so I’m excited about that, and we’ll see how that goes,” he continued. “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].”
He also has a song in the Lilo & Stitch movie, which he says “has been crazy.”
Iam also revealed what he’d love to do in the future with his music: “My dream collab is Fiji. He’s a Polynesian singer, and he’s a legend, and not only Polynesian, but just Islanders. All Islanders know who Fiji is, and that’s a dream collaboration,” he said.
Iam made history as the first person from Hawaii and the first Pacific Islander to win American Idol. Find out who are the most popular winners of the show!