Plus how his new book, flirty era, and ‘Can I Call You’ are redefining his journey.
In a candid interview for the Pride Podcast, David Archuleta opens up about how his obsession with Disneyland’s viral Evil Queen performer wasn’t just a casual moment—it was an awakening of sorts. “Something about her just did things to me,” he laughed, recalling his first encounter. “I guess I didn’t realize how much I liked being talked to like that by a strong woman.”
Honestly, we can’t blame him.
Since his breakout days on American Idol, Archuleta has been known for his soulful voice and earnest charm. But in 2021, the singer took his fans by surprise when he publicly came out as queer, sharing his journey of self-discovery and faith in a heartfelt Instagram post. Since then, Archuleta has been redefining his narrative, stepping into his truth with boldness and vulnerability. Now, he’s entering a new era of self-acceptance and flirtation.
When host Caitlynn McDaniel brought up the idea of childhood crushes like Milo from Atlantis and Shego from Kim Possible, the conversation shifted to fluidity and attraction. Archuleta chimed in with a grin, “I’m not 100% of anything, which is why I just say queer. I mean, I prefer guys, but like, you know, then the Evil Queen comes up and…” he trailed off. “I thought everyone kind of liked both.”
He joked that maybe the Evil Queen is pan—or maybe just really into herself. “Honestly, maybe she just knows she’s that good.”
Writing His Truth
When Archuleta isn’t working on new music, he’s diving into his new memoir that delves deep into his journey of growing up Mormon, coming to terms with his sexuality, and learning to love himself in the face of religious and societal pressures.
“I’m writing a whole book that touches on things like American Idol and growing up Mormon,” he shared. “How do you come to terms with your sexuality when you’ve resisted it all your life and were told it was bad? How do you program yourself out of thinking you’re the worst thing to exist on the planet to find love and compassion for yourself?”
For the “Crush” singer, the book is more than just a memoir—it’s a message of healing. He hopes to connect with others who have struggled to accept themselves, particularly those in religious communities where queer acceptance is still a battle. During the interview, he reflected on the power of storytelling and how sharing his truth is part of his own healing process. “I think if you can show people that you can still be you and be happy, then you start breaking down those walls,” he said.
New Music, New Era
Alongside his book, Archuleta is entering what he calls his “flirty era” with his new single, “Can I Call You.” The song marks a turning point in his music, embracing queer love openly and unapologetically. “It’s still my flirty era, like this ‘Crème Brûlée’ era awakening of just being more sensual and a little more sexy,” he teased.
For fans who grew up watching Archuleta’s wholesome performances, this new chapter is not just refreshing—it’s liberating. He’s showing the world that queer love is real, it’s powerful, and it’s worthy of being celebrated. “People told me queer love couldn’t be real, that it wasn’t deep, but I’m showing them otherwise,” he explained.
Living Authentically and Unapologetically
David Archuleta is living proof that authenticity is worth the fight. If you want to hear more about David’s journey, his flirty new era, and what’s next in his music career, catch the full interview on the Pride Podcast with Caitlynn McDaniel.
