Anoop Desai, who placed in the Top 7 on American Idol season 8 in 2009, will have a major recurring role in season 4 of the hit FX mockumentary comedy horror series What We Do in the Shadows. While he was on American Idol, Anoop was known for his smooth vocals and was the second Indian American contestant to advance into the later rounds of the competition, following Sanjaya Malakar from season 6. Anoop was also the last Wild Card contestant to be added to first-ever Top 13 in the show's history. Kris Allen later won the season.

During Anoop's time on American Idol, he proved himself to be a talented and versatile singer and performer. He had some memorable performances, including his rousing renditions of Bobby Brown's "My Prerogative" and Usher's "Caught Up." He was also known for his heartfelt version of "Always on My Mind" by Willie Nelson. Since American Idol, Anoop has released music under his own name, and he now performs hip-hop and soul music under the name TOTEM. He also has a few other acting credits to his name. In 2020, he appeared in episodes of Showtime's Billions and Apple TV+'s Little Voice. In 2022, he appeared in two episodes of Netflix's Russian Doll.

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Now Deadline reports that American Idol finalist Anoop will have a major recurring role on What We Do in the Shadows season 4, appearing in six of 10 episodes. The series, which is based on the 2014 film of the same name, is about the nightly exploits of a group of vampire roommates who explore the modern world of Staten Island, New York, with the help of their human familiar. Anoop will play an acquaintance of one of the vampires, Nandor. His character comes from Nandor's ancestral homeland.

Anoop Desai from American Idol

What We Do in the Shadows will begin its fourth season on July 12 at 10 p.m. ET on FX. The series has already been renewed for seasons 5 and 6 as well. The Emmy-nominated series premiered on March 27, 2019, to much critical acclaim, and is a fan favorite. American Idol season 20 just ended, crowning Noah Thompson as the winner.

It is always fun and exciting to see the show's finalists have success after their seasons end. Anoop was a favorite American Idol season 8 contestant who made a lasting impression on fans with his immense talent and charming personality. This role will show a whole new side of him, and it will hopefully lead to even more acting roles for him in the future. Whatever he decides to do, Anoop is sure to be very successful.

Source: Deadline