David Archuleta and Bianca Ryan Connect Through Their Journey with Vocal Cord Paralysis
David Archuleta during his Christmas concert in New York City on Dec. 14, 2025.
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NEED TO KNOW
- David Archuleta reunited with fellow former Star Search contestant Bianca Ryan on stage during his holiday concert at Joe’s Pub in New York City on December 14.
- The American Idol runner-up and Ryan, the first-ever America’s Got Talent winner, shared their experiences with vocal cord paralysis.
- The duo performed two duets during the event.
David Archuleta brought longtime friend and fellow artist Bianca Ryan on stage for a heartfelt performance at his holiday concert in New York City on December 14. The pair, both rising stars from competitive singing shows, reflected on their shared struggles with vocal cord paralysis.
During the concert, Archuleta introduced Ryan, highlighting her journey and the challenges she faced—including vocal surgeries and a seven-year hiatus from performing. “She had to overcome so much,” he noted. Ryan elaborated on her experiences with vocal cord paralysis, a condition that hampers control over the vocal muscles.
Archuleta, diagnosed with vocal paralysis at age 12 while competing on Star Search, noted that he was fortunate to avoid surgery, as his condition was detected early. “People didn’t know much about vocal paralysis back then,” he explained. “The doctors just said, ‘You could try surgery, but we don’t know if it’ll help you.’”
David Archuleta at the Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 27, 2025.
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Ryan agreed, stating, “Every time you take a break… especially after something like seven years, you just don’t know if you’re ever going to perform again. It makes you appreciate it tenfold.” She emphasized the value of music as a gift. “It’s amazing to be able to share that again,” she added.
In a recent interview with TV Insider, Ryan discussed her efforts to rehabilitate her voice after years of struggle. “I feel like it’s really important to have the right vocal health team to ensure I return to my best,” she said.
Throughout the concert, titled “My Only Wish,” Archuleta and Ryan captivated the audience with duets, including Archuleta’s collaboration with Jordin Sparks, “Wish at the Top of My List,” and the timeless “The Prayer” by Céline Dion and Andrea Bocelli.
