After 14 years, FOX's "American Idol" is coming to an end. The show has brought us mainstream music stars like Kelly Clarkson, Jordin Sparks, Jennifer Hudson, and Carrie Underwood. I'll be the first to admit that the show went downhill after the original judging trio of Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul went on to bigger and better things. Regardless, "American Idol" has still been a major part of American popular culture and has left us with some great memories. Here is a walk down "Idol" memory lane.
Who can forget that moment 12 years ago, when aspiring singer, William Hung, graced our television screens? He was the hot topic of every lunch table and break room, the next day.
Sanjaya became a household name, only because Americans were astonished at how far the mediocre singer had made it in the competition. We also tuned in each week just to see what different hairstyle he would be sporting.
There was that night in 2004 where speculation was raised about race on the show. The "Three Divas" -- Fantasia, Jennifer Hudson, and LaToya London (the three remaining African American females in the competition) -- were the bottom three vote getters of the week. I remember my mom, sister and I all being speechless when Ryan Seacrest announced Jennifer Hudson was to be eliminated. America clearly got it wrong, as Hudson went on to become an award winning singer and actress.
Chris Daughtry was told it was time to go. He had been everyone's favorite to win since his first audition. His elimination shocked America and, apparently, Katherine McPhee.
"Idol" introduced us to the eventual season five winner, Taylor Hicks, we all wondered how a 30-year-old man already had grey hair.
And everyone always wondered why Paula Abdul would clap like a seal.
We waited on the edge of our seats for Simon Cowell to make fun of bad singers.
And if you didn't grab a landline to vote for your favorite the maximum amount of times per week, were you really a true fan?
