See What Your Favorite 'American Idol' Stars Are Doing Now

Remember this fresh face? At just 20 years old, she (and her chunky blonde highlights) went on to win the first season of American Idol.

Since her success on Idol, Kelly has released more than nine studio albums and embarked on many headlining tours. She also hosts The Kelly Clarkson Show on NBC and is a coach on The Voice.

American Idol's first-ever runner-up performed so well during the competition, even notoriously harsh judge Simon Cowell praised the 23-year-old singer, telling him, "Justin, you know, occasionally you're very privileged when you do a competition like this to hear somebody undiscovered who has a voice like yours."

Though he's chopped his signature hair, Justin still has the same great big smile. While his career didn't take off quite like Kelly Clarkson's, the singer has performed for large audiences on Broadway in theatrical roles in Rent, Romeo and Juliet, Chicago, and more.

Nicknamed the "Velvet Teddy Bear," the season two winner impressed judges and audiences alike with his beautiful renditions of songs like John Lennon's "Imagine" and Diane Warren's "Music of My Heart."

After dropping an impressive 119 pounds on season fifteen of The Biggest Loser, the singer has continued to release albums and perform for crowds nationwide.

Back in 2003, the 24-year-old left the American Idol judges speechless with his incredible voice, earning him the runner-up spot on season two.

Swapping a career onstage for one at the podium, Clay is now in politics. In 2014, he ran as the Democratic Party's candidate for North Carolina's 2nd congressional district, but lost. In 2022, he announced his plan to run again for congress.

The 23-year-old's untimely exit as the seventh runner-up on Idol's third season shocked audiences back in 2004.

Now, Jennifer's one of Idol's most successful contestants ever, having won an Oscar and Golden Globe for her 2006 performance in Dreamgirls. She's also inspired millions as the spokeswoman for Weight Watchers and was a coach on The Voice on seasons thirteen and fifteen.

Rocking big curls and funky dresses, the 22-year-old won the fourth season of Idol.

Carrie has since racked up countless Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards. She's currently preparing for her upcoming Las Vegas residency.

Coming in fourth place, the singer achieved acclaim for his hard rock performances throughout the show's fifth season.

The rocker's band, Daughtry, was nominated for a Grammy for Best Rock Song in 2008, and he's continued to tour and release new music ever since. He also made his acting debut on the 100th episode of CSI: New York in 2008.

Season five's runner-up, Katharine McPhee, endeared audiences with her cute outfits and big voice.

Pursuing a passion for acting and music, Katharine has gone on to appear in movies like The House Bunny and shows like Smash. She also starred on Broadway in Waitress.

At just 17, American Idol's youngest winner ever rocked cute babydoll dresses, while belting out powerful performances.

The singer has adopted a more mature style to go with her many accomplishments, which include winning an American Music Award in 2008 and being nominated for a Grammy in 2009. She's also taken up acting in recent years, appearing in A Christmas Treasure in 2021.

Appearing on the eighth season of American Idol, Adam wowed audiences with his skilled tenor voice and huge vocal range.

Adam has been touring with legendary rock band Queen since 2014. In addition to his many sold out shows, Adam was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Vocal Performance in 2011 and received an Honorary GLAAD Media Award in 2013.