8 'American Idol' Winners Whose Fame Continues to Shine

On Sunday, May 21, "American Idol" announced the winner of its 21st season. With only three contestants left for the show's final, one claimed the title - William Tongi.

Competing against two other finalists - Megan Danielle and Colin Stough - Tongi performed numerous solo songs and duets during the final episode of the contest. He shared a duet, "Monsters," with James Blunt and gave a heartfelt solo rendition of "I'll Be Seeing You" as a tribute to his late father. Tongi also sang "Cool Down" and "Making Memories of Us."

"American Idol" offers a golden opportunity for budding talents nationwide to showcase their skills and earn fame. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the past winners of the show whose fame still dazzles today.

Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson captured the spotlight as the winner of the show during its inaugural season. Since her victory, she has released ten studio albums. Kelly also is a host of "The Kelly Clarkson Show." Clarkson has welcomed two beautiful children with her ex-husband.

Kelly commemorated her moment of fame two decades post-victory in a touching tribute. She expressed gratitude for the life-altering victory on social media, thanking all who voted for her and helped pave her journey to a flourishing music career.

Ruben Studdard

Ruben Studdard, the winner of the second season, released a touching tribute on the 20th anniversary of his victory, reminiscing how his childhood dreams became a reality, forever altering his life.

Since then, Studdard has released seven studio albums, with his first one reaching the top of the Billboard 200. He remains dedicated to his musical journey, having recently announced the debut of a new single on May 26.

Fantasia Barrino

At just 20 years old, Fantasia Barrino emerged victorious in the show's third season on May 26, 2004. Jennifer Hudson, who later won an Oscar, was among Fantasia's opponents.

Since then, Barrino has released seven studio albums and ventured into an acting career. She is currently touring across the United States.

Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood stands among the most successful "American Idol" alumni, clinching victory in its fourth season on May 25, 2005, with her song "Inside Your Heaven."

Months after her victory, she released her debut album "Some Hearts," which quickly achieved multiplatinum status. She has released nine studio albums in total over the years. Underwood is currently preparing for a major tour in the second half of 2023, primarily in Las Vegas.

Jordin Sparks

At just 17 years old, Jordin Sparks claimed victory in the show's sixth season on May 23, 2007. Since then, while releasing four studio albums, she has also explored acting on screen and stage. However, "American Idol" wasn't Sparks' first competition, having previously participated in "America's Most Talented Kid."

Currently, Sparks relishes "living on its higher vibration" and frequently shares her journey on social media.

David Cook

David Cook tasted victory at the end of the seventh season on May 21, 2008. Since then, the singer has released four albums and topped several Billboard charts.

Cook recently returned to the "American Idol" stage during its 20th-anniversary special, where he released his new single, "TABOS (This'll All Be Over Soon)."

Scotty McCreery

Scotty McCreery clinched the title for the 10th season of the show on May 25, 2011. He has since released five studio albums, including a holiday album titled "See You Tonight." In addition to his music, he penned the book "Go Big or Go Home," where he reminisces about various moments throughout his life.

This year, Scotty celebrated his wife's very first Mother's Day, as the couple welcomed their first child - a son named Merrick - on October 24, 2022.

Phillip Phillips

Phillip Phillips, the star of the 11th season, claimed his victory on "American Idol" on May 23, 2012, and has since released four albums. His debut album featured the single "Home," which charted at number 4 on the Billboard 200.

Phillips' fans eagerly anticipate the release of his new album, "Drift Back." The singer announced its release is set for June 9.

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