American Idol

Searching for Superstars

by Beth Rowen

Related Links Blues, R&B, Pop, and Rock Singers and Bands Composers and Conductors Composers and Performers of Popular Music Concert Instrumentalists Country Musicians Folk, Gospel, and World Musicians Jazz Musicians Opera and Concert Performers Rap and Hip-Hop Performers Radio and Television Personalities Monster's Poll Who is your favorite American Idol? Kelly Clarkson Ruben Studdard Fantasia Carrie Underwood Taylor Hicks Jordin Sparks Take another poll

Millions of loyal fans, billions perhaps, watch American Idol every week. Since its debut in 2002, American Idol has created a new crop of pop stars, from Kelly Clarkson to Carrie Underwood. Country singer Underwood proved her star power at the 2006 Grammy Awards, when she won trophies for Best New Artist and Best Female Vocal Performance. In addition, Jennifer Hudson met stunning success as she crossed over into acting. She earned an Oscar for her performance in Dreamgirls.

American Idol often ranks as the most-watched show on television, and for the past three years it has landed the No. 1 spot for kids age 6 to 17 for the overall television season.

American Idol Quiz:
Who are the American Idol judges?

American Idol Playlists

Career Success and Awards for American Idol Contestants

• Bestselling Albums by American Idol Alumni
• Top-Selling Albums of 2006
• 2006 Grammy Awards
• 2006 Academy Awards

Biographies

• Ryan Seacrest, host
• Simon Cowell, judge
• Randy Jackson, judge
• Paula Abdul, judge

• Kelly Clarkson, winner, season 1

• Ruben Studdard, winner, season 2
• Clay Aiken, runner-up, season 2

• Fantasia, winner, season 3
• Jennifer Hudson, finalist, season 3
• William Hung, lovable loser, season 3

• Carrie Underwood, winner, season 4
• Mario Vazquez, dropout, season 4

• Taylor Hicks, winner, season 5
• Katharine McPhee, runner-up, season 5

• Jordin Sparks, winner, season 6
• Blake Lewis, runner-up, season 6

• More from Music