With American Idol ending after next season, it seems only right to look back at some of the greatest things the show has given us throughout the years.
The OG Judges
Hands down the best judges of the show were Randy, Simon and Paula. Simon was the brutally honest Brit, Paula was the sugar coater, and Randy just kind of sat there, going with the flow and saying "dawg" a lot. Sometimes the trio provided even more entertainment than the performers, and America ate it up. Also, no one could forget the long lasting beef between Simon and Paula, (and that one time they kissed?) reality show gold.
Ryan Seacrest
Originally a cohost with Brian Dunkleman, Seacrest eventually got the job all to himself and made a million dollar name for himself in Hollywood. He not only became the face of hosting, but also used his recognition to land his own radio show and production company. Without shows like Idol, America would never have been able to get a peek into the lives of people like the Kardashians or the Jonas' and where would we be without that? Probably in a much better place, but still.
Kelly Clarkson
Clarkson was the first winner and person to use her American Idol winnings to her advantage. Her winning performance singing "A Moment Like This" embodied what the whole Idol experience was all about. Since then she has had multiple chart toppers in the pop scene including "Since You've Been Gone" and "Stronger." She is known and admired now for not only her talent and work, but also for her belief that everyone should be confident with their bodies and who they are.
William Hung
Perhaps the most memorable Idol audition was Mr. William Hung and his rendition of Ricky Martin's "She Bangs." Just a sweet kid from UC Berkeley, he unfortunately did not have the chops to advance in the competition but was not discouraged after Simon told him he could not sing or dance. He was happy he tried and had no regrets. TEAM HUNG FOREVER.
Carrie Underwood
Underwood was just a simple Oklahoma girl before Idol, but the show helped her break out of her shell and become one of the most well known country artists of our day. With tons of country hits, she regularly performs and hosts many awards shows and has become a beauty icon with fashionable looks and endorsements from companies like Almay, not to mention she's pals with tons of country stars and has a gorgeous hockey player husband. She has definitely not let her Idol winnings go to waste.
Daughtry
Chris Daughtry was the underdog rocker who many believe got jipped out of winning season 5. This, however, did not stop the singer from starting his own band and creating popular hits that all ages know and sing along to. While the band does fly under the radar, they are still successful to this day, making music and touring the country. Daughtry was proof that winning was not everything and that using your name after the fact could still spark a career.
Mariah vs. Nicki
The true hatred between judges was between the two divas Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj who people speculated would not get along and were completely right. Subtle jabs between the two turned into blatant eye rolls and direct comments and again people were more entertained by the judges than contestants' singing. Together they only lasted one season and Idol learned to only have just one diva judge at a time.
Phillip Phillips
This cute boy with a funny name won season 11 and gave America two great hits that we hear constantly on the radio, car commercials, and graduation parties. The songs "Home" and "Gone, Gone, Gone" are sentimental ballads that are loved by all and they have given Phillips a step in the right direction for his future career.
