BD: Did the whole American Idol experience help you cope with your personal struggles—the death of your beloved wife, Sophia?

DG: This experience has meant a new beginning. It's a new hope almost because now a few people saw what I walked through, and coming on the show, it's like it opened up a new door just to live life again and be happy.

I don't know where I would be without the show. I was looking for hope in any avenue. … When my wife passed away, I wanted to die, but parts of the show brought a new reason to live.