Complete List of American Idol Winners (All Seasons)

American Idol started in 2002 during the big reality TV boom and ran for 15 seasons on Fox. In 2018, it moved to ABC. The show has always been hosted by Ryan Seacrest. It gives unknown singers a chance to win a recording contract. Over the past 20 years, American Idol has created many superstars like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Phillip Phillips. The current judges are Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.

American Idol is still popular, finding the best voices from across the country and giving them a chance to shine on the national stage. From the first American idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, to the country star Carrie Underwood, many talented singers have won the competition.

Here’s the complete list of American Idol winners from the first winner to the last season winner.

“American Idol” has been a popular television singing competition in the United States since its inception in 2002. It has launched the careers of many artists who have become household names. Developed by Simon Fuller, it revolutionized the music industry by giving aspiring singers a platform to showcase their talent and pursue their dreams. With its distinctive format of auditions, eliminations, and viewer voting, the show captured the hearts of millions and became a cultural phenomenon.

Here is a list of American Idol Winners from each season:

The first season of American Idol introduced the world to Kelly Clarkson, first American idol winner. Her powerhouse vocals and infectious personality attracted audiences. Her journey from being waitress to the pop sensation remains one of the most iconic in the show’s history. She is the winner of multiple Grammy Awards.

Kelly Clarkson, who was 20 years old on the show, auditioned in Dallas, Texas, with Etta James’ “At Last” and Madonna’s “Express Yourself.” Her winning song was “A Moment Like This.” Many fans still consider her their favorite champion of all time. Since winning, she has won three Grammys. In 2012, Kelly was ranked 19th on VH1’s list of 100 Greatest Women in Music. In 2013, Billboard ranked her as the 14th best-selling artist of the 2000s. She became a coach on “The Voice” in 2018.

• Also Check – Kelly Clarkson Net Worth 2024 (Salary, Music Career and Real Estate)

Ruben Studdard claimed the American Idol winner title in 2003 over the runner up Clay Aiken.

Ruben Studdard, who was 24 years old on the show, is from Birmingham, Alabama, and auditioned in Nashville, Tennessee, with Stevie Wonder’s “Ribbon in the Sky.” His winning song was “Flying Without Wings.” Ruben was the first man and the first person of color to win. After the show, he won a Teen Choice Award and was nominated for a Grammy. He most recently appeared on “The Biggest Loser.”

Season 3 of American Idol introduced the world to Fantasia Barrino. Her raw talent and emotional depth made her a great performer.

Fantasia Barrino, who was 19 years old on the show, auditioned in Atlanta, Georgia, with Lauryn Hill’s “Killing Me Softly” and Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary.” Her winning song was “I Believe.” Since winning, Fantasia starred on Broadway in “The Color Purple” and won a Grammy in 2010.

Carrie Underwood came to stardom in 2005 after winning the season 4 of the popular singing competition show “American Idol.” Her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence captivated audiences nationwide.

Carrie Underwood, who was 21 years old on the show, auditioned in St. Louis, Missouri, with Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” Her winning song was “Inside Your Heaven.” She was the first country singer to earn the title. Since winning, Carrie has taken home more than 100 awards, including six Grammys and almost every country music award possible. She was also nominated for a Golden Globe.

Taylor Hicks, who was 29 years old on the show, is from Birmingham, Alabama. He performed “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke at his original audition in Las Vegas. His winning song was “Do I Make You Proud.” Taylor is one of the few winners in “American Idol” history to never be in the bottom three. Since winning, he has starred in “Grease” on Broadway.

Jordin Sparks, who was 17 years old on the show, is from Glendale, Arizona, and auditioned in Seattle, WA. She became the youngest winner to date. Her winning song was “This Is My Now.” After “American Idol,” Jordin was nominated for a Grammy and won a Teen Choice Award, NAACP Image Award, BET Award, American Music Award, and a People’s Choice Award.

David Cook, who was 25 years old on the show, is from Blue Springs, Missouri. He auditioned in Omaha, Nebraska, with Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On A Prayer.” He was never in the bottom three even once. His winning song was “The Time of My Life.” Since winning, his self-titled first album was certified platinum, and he won a Teen Choice Award. Since “American Idol,” David has released multiple albums and continues to tour and perform. He is also involved in various charitable causes.

Kris Allen, who was 23 years old on the show, is from Conway, Arkansas. He auditioned in Louisville, Kentucky, with Leon Russell’s “A Song For You.” His winning song was “No Boundaries,” written by “American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi. Kris gained fame as winner Season 8 “American Idol.” Since winning, Kris has released two albums and was nominated for a Teen Choice Award and a People’s Choice Award.

Lee DeWyze, who was 23 years old on the show, is from Mount Prospect, Illinois. He auditioned in Chicago, Illinois, with Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine.” His winning song was “Beautiful Day.” Since winning, Lee has released two albums and won a Teen Choice Award.

Scotty McCreery, who was 17 years old on the show, auditioned in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with Josh Turner’s “Your Man” and Travis Tritt’s “Put Some Drive In Your Country.” His winning song was “I Love You This Big.” Scotty was the first “Idol” winner born in the 1990s. Since winning, he has won trophies at the American Country Awards, ACM Awards, and CMT Music Awards.

Phillip Phillips, who was 21 years old on the show, auditioned in North Charleston, singing “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder and playing “Thriller” by Michael Jackson on the guitar. His winning song was “Home,” which became a huge success and went quadruple platinum. He was the last of five consecutive guitar-playing guys to win. Since winning, he has been nominated for two Teen Choice Awards and several other industry accolades.

Phillips’ first song after winning, “Home,” was a huge success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and sold over four million copies.

His first album, “The World from the Side of the Moon,” came out in 2012 and went platinum, showing he was a big deal in music.

After that, he released more albums like “Behind the Lines” in 2014, “Collateral” in 2018, and “Drift Back” in 2023. Each one showed how much he’s grown as a songwriter and artist.

Candice Glover became the champion of American Idol Season 12. This showcased her dynamic stage presence to audiences around the world. Her journey to victory was marked by her incredible vocal range and emotional depth.

Candice Glover, who was 23 years old on the show, auditioned in Charlotte, singing “Syrup & Honey.” She had previously auditioned in the ninth and eleventh seasons, making her the first contestant to win on her third try. Her winning song was “I Am Beautiful.” After winning “Idol,” Candice released her debut album, “Music Speaks.”

Though it didn’t reach the expected commercial success, Glover remained dedicated to her musical career. She continued to release singles like “My Mistake” (2017) and “Break Me” (2018).

Her musical style blends elements of R&B, soul, and jazz, highlighting her versatility and artistic growth.

Caleb Johnson, who was 23 years old on the show, auditioned with his original song “Into the Void.” He had previously tried out in the 10th and 11th seasons, making him the second contestant to win on his third try, after Candice Glover in Season 12. His winning song was “As Long as You Love Me.”

Season 14 of American Idol crowned Nick Fradiani. Nick, who was 29 years old on the show, auditioned with the song “In Your Eyes.” He had previously tried out for “America’s Got Talent” with his band Beach Avenue, only making it to Judgment Week. His winning song was “Beautiful Life.”

Season 15 of American Idol introduced Trent Harmon to the world. Trent, who was 25 years old on the show, auditioned with the song “Unaware” by Allen Stone. His winning song was “Falling.” Despite a controversial win over La’Porsha Renae, he was known as the show’s final winner, marking an end to the original series that began with Kelly Clarkson. However, the show returned two years later on ABC for more episodes.

Season 16 crowned Maddie Poppe as its champion. Maddie Poppe, who was 20 years old on the show, auditioned with the song “The Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog. In the season finale on May 21, 2018, she got to sing the song again with Kermit himself. The Season 16 runner-up was Caleb Lee Hutchinson, who was Maddie’s boyfriend at the time.

Laine Hardy, who was 18 years old on the show, didn’t plan on auditioning this year after being cut in Hawaii the previous season. However, the judges made him audition after he accompanied a friend to her audition. On May 19, 2019, Laine won Season 17 over runner-up Alejandro Aranda. He is the third “Idol” winner who had previously competed, following Candice Glover and Caleb Johnson. His winning song was “Flame.”

Samantha Diaz, who was 21 years old on the show, impressed the judges—Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie—right from her audition. Known as Just Sam, she won Season 18 on May 17, 2020, over runner-up Arthur Gunn. Her winning song was “Rise Up,” which she performed from home because the live shows went remote due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Chayce Beckham emerged as the winner of American Idol Season 19. Chayce, who was 24 years old on the show, is a forklift driver from Apple Valley, California. He won the title during the Season 19 finale on May 23, 2021. The runner-up was Willie Spence. Chayce’s winning song was “23,” an original tune that had already climbed the iTunes country charts by the time he won.

Noah Thompson, who was 22 years old on the show, is a construction worker from Louisa, Kentucky. He won the Season 20 finale on May 22, 2022. The runner-up was HunterGirl. Noah’s winning song was “One Day Tonight.” Some of his other songs on the show included “Stay,” “I’m on Fire,” “So Small,” “Working Man,” “Painted Blue,” “Landslide,” “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” “Heartbreak Warfare,” “Stand by Me,” “Cover Me Up,” “Falling,” and “Blue Side of the Mountain.”

William Iam Guy Tongi won Season 21 of American Idol. Iam Tongi, who was 18 years old on the show, is from Kahuku, Hawaii. He won the Season 21 finale on May 21, 2023. The runner-up was Megan Danielle. Iam’s winning song was “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Some of his other songs on the show included “The Sound of Silence,” “Don’t Let Go,” “The Winner Takes It All,” “Stuck on You,” “Bring It On Home to Me,” “What a Wonderful World,” “Guardian,” “Lava,” “Father and Son,” “Making Memories of Us,” and “Cool Down.”

Abi Carter, who was 21 years old on the show, is a pop ballad singer from Indio, California. She won the Season 22 finale on May 19, 2024. The runner-up was Will Moseley. Throughout the competition, Abi performed songs like “What Was I Made For?” (Auditions round), “If I Could Turn Back Time” (Showstopper round), “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” (Top 24 round), “Welcome to the Black Parade” and “My Mind” (Top 20 round), “Goodbye, Yellow Brick Road” (Top 14 round), “All Too Well” (Top 12 round), “Clocks” (Top 10 round), “Bring Me to Life” (Top 8 round), “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light ’em Up)” and “Hello” (Top 7 round), “Part of Your World” and “The Chain” (Top 5 round), and “Bed of Roses” and “Somewhere” (Top 3 round).

American Idol winners have showcased incredible talent and achieved significant success. From the show’s first winner, Kelly Clarkson, to the latest champion, Abi Carter, these singers have captivated audiences with their powerful performances and unique voices. Many winners, like Carrie Underwood and Phillip Phillips, have gone on to enjoy successful music careers, winning numerous awards and earning widespread recognition. American Idol continues to be a launching pad for aspiring artists, proving that dreams can come true with hard work and determination.

Who is the most successful American Idol winner?

Carrie Underwood is the most successful American Idol winner.

Who are the top 3 in American Idol?

The top 3 in American Idol vary by season, but for Season 22, they were Abi Carter, Will Moseley, and the third-place contestant (name not provided).

Who won American Idol in order?

Here are some winners in order:

1. Kelly Clarkson (Season 1)
2. Ruben Studdard (Season 2)
3. Fantasia Barrino (Season 3)
4. Carrie Underwood (Season 4)
5. Taylor Hicks (Season 5)
6. Jordin Sparks (Season 6)
7. David Cook (Season 7)
8. Kris Allen (Season 8)
9. Lee DeWyze (Season 9)
10. Scotty McCreery (Season 10)
11. Phillip Phillips (Season 11)
12. Candice Glover (Season 12)
13. Caleb Johnson (Season 13)
14. Nick Fradiani (Season 14)
15. Trent Harmon (Season 15)
16. Maddie Poppe (Season 16)
17. Laine Hardy (Season 17)
18. Just Sam (Season 18)
19. Chayce Beckham (Season 19)
20. Noah Thompson (Season 20)
21. Iam Tongi (Season 21)
22. Abi Carter (Season 22)

Who is the most successful non-winner of American Idol?

Jennifer Hudson is the most successful non-winner of American Idol.

Who was the first winner of American Idol?

Kelly Clarkson won the first season of American Idol in 2002, launching a successful music career with hits like “Since U Been Gone” and “Because of You.”

How many American Idol winners are there?

As of my last update in April 2023, there have been 20 seasons of American Idol, resulting in 20 winners. The show continues to air, so there may be more winners since then.

Have any American Idol winners become famous?

Yes, several winners have achieved significant fame and success in the music industry. Notable examples include Kelly Clarkson (Season 1), Carrie Underwood (Season 4), and Phillip Phillips (Season 11). Their careers have gone beyond just music, with many branching into acting, writing, and philanthropy.

What happens to American Idol winners after the show?

Winners of American Idol receive a recording contract among other prizes, which can vary from season to season. They typically release their debut single shortly after their win and often an album within the following year. Success post-Idol varies, with some winners achieving long-term success in the music industry and others finding their careers taking different paths.

Has any American Idol winner not been successful?

Success can be subjective and varies greatly. While most winners have enjoyed some level of success in the music industry, a few have had more modest careers post-Idol. The level of commercial success and public visibility has varied among winners, with some choosing to focus on songwriting, Broadway, or personal projects.

Can American Idol winners participate in other competitions?

Yes, American Idol winners and contestants can and have participated in other music or reality TV competitions. For example, some have competed on “Dancing with the Stars” and other entertainment shows. Participation in other competitions often depends on individual contracts and career choices.

How does American Idol impact the winners’ careers?

Winning American Idol provides a significant boost to an artist’s career, offering immediate exposure to millions of viewers, a recording contract, and often, a loyal fan base. It serves as a launching pad, but long-term success depends on a variety of factors including talent, marketability, work ethic, and sometimes, luck.