Where David Archuleta & David Cook Stand Today

More than 16 years after they faced off in the season 7 finale of “American Idol,” David Archuleta and David Cook remain on good terms—even if life has pulled them in different directions.

Archuleta, who finished as runner-up to Cook in 2008, recently spoke about their bond and how it has evolved since the show.

Cook & Archuleta: From “American Idol” to Present Day

In a recent interview with People, Archuleta revealed, “I do not [keep in touch with Cook] as often now that I live in L.A.,” He continued, “I saw him more back then. We would get lunch sometimes.”

Though their paths have diverged, they still connect from time to time. “A few months ago he texted me, and I was like, ‘Dude, I was just thinking about you.’ And we were just like, ‘When we’re in the same place, let’s meet up,’” Archuleta said. He described Cook as someone who has “just always been chill and kept to himself.”

For viewers, season 7 of “American Idol” was one of the most competitive in the show’s history. The showdown between Archuleta and Cook felt monumental, and the then-teenage Archuleta still remembers how surreal it all was.

“I think we both were like, ‘What the hell is going on?’ when we were on American Idol,” Archuleta said. “I mean, we both wanted to be singers, but none of us craved to be like, ‘I want to be the superstar. Everyone look at me.’”

He added, “We were both just like, ‘Okay, well, we’re here. Oh, we’re at the finale now. Oh my God. We want to do well, and we want to do our best, but how the hell did we end up here?’ It was just wild.”

Both singers have continued releasing music over the years. Archuleta is promoting his new “Earthly Delights” EP, while Cook has toured consistently since his win.

Paula Abdul’s Ongoing Support

Archuleta also reflected on another lasting relationship from his “Idol” days—his bond with former judge Paula Abdul.

“Paula has consistently been a good person who genuinely cares about others,” Archuleta said of the “Forever Your Girl” star. He noted that long before his audition, he was a fan. “She’s sold tens of millions of CDs and singles and had so many number-one hits — and her workout DVDs. My mom and I used to work out to them.”

According to Archuleta, Abdul has remained supportive through the years, often showing up to watch former contestants perform. “Regardless of if you’re considered the hot thing right now or not, she’ll go and watch Idol contestants when they have shows in town,” he said. “She genuinely just roots for her people.”

At more than a decade removed from their finale, Archuleta and Cook may not share the same closeness they once had, but their respect for each other—and the friendships formed during their “Idol” journey—remain an important part of Archuleta’s life.