Entertainment
Care About American Idol? Here Are 20 Winners & What Happened To Them After The Show
Over the past two decades, “American Idol” winners have gone from everyday routines to national attention almost overnight. But fame didn’t lead everyone in the same direction. This article talks about 20 winners, and the different turns their lives and careers have taken since they bagged that trophy.
Kelly Clarkson (Winner In 2002, Season 1)
Her early albums earned many Grammy Awards and helped build a strong foundation for her post-Idol career. Building on that success, she introduced “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” which went on to receive multiple Daytime Emmy honors. That transition from chart success to television presence redefined her career on a different scale.
Ruben Studdard (Winner In 2003, Season 2)
Millions heard him first through studio recordings, but live performances became his lasting strength. He turned consistently toward gospel material and paid homage to soul icons like Luther Vandross. Offstage, he promotes music education through the Ruben Studdard Initiative, which keeps him connected to the industry.
Fantasia Barrino (Winner In 2004, Season 3)
Before “Bittersweet” gained industry praise, Fantasia had already shown stage strength through live theater. In 2007, “The Color Purple” introduced her as Celie with both emotional depth and vocal control. A later return in 2013 for “After Midnight” affirmed her ability to lead powerful productions outside televised competition.
Carrie Underwood (Winner In 2005, Season 4)
As of today, Carrie Underwood has sold over 70 million records worldwide and is a winner of several Grammys. She recorded her first “Sunday Night Football” theme song in 2013 and continued for multiple seasons. That same drive led her to launch “CALIA” in March 2015, a successful fitness and fashion brand that reflects her active lifestyle.
Taylor Hicks (Winner In 2006, Season 5)
Taylor Hicks has performed in Las Vegas and toured smaller venues across the U.S. Interestingly, he also opened a barbecue restaurant in Alabama, all while making music that wasn’t backed by any major record labels. Since the Idol win, his main focus has been on soul music and regular live appearances.
Jordin Sparks (Winner In 2007, Season 6)
Early success for Jordan Sparks came with a platinum album and major hits like “No Air.” Momentum from those releases led to collaborations that kept her visible in the pop and R&B spotlight. She later took roles in film and launched business ventures, yet her focus on music never faded.
David Cook (Winner In 2008, Season 7)
Cook’s departure from RCA in 2012 marked the beginning of a more autonomous creative path. Broadway came later, with a 2018 role as Charlie Price in “Kinky Boots” that highlighted strong stage presence and vocal adaptability. During that same year, he introduced his album titled “Digital Vein” through his own label, supported entirely by his fans.
Kris Allen (Winner In 2009, Season 8)
Allen’s 2013 car accident abruptly halted the broader success he gained from his 2009 hit “Live Like We’re Dying.” While recovering, he used the downtime to reshape his musical style, aiming for more intimate performances. Since then, his artistry has been built around personal stories of resilience and fatherhood.
Lee DeWyze (Winner In 2010, Season 9)
After 2014, DeWyze’s raspy vocals became TV’s secret weapon, with “The Walking Dead” (the show) using “Blackbird Song” for key emotional moments. In the years that followed, his music appeared in many other series and films. Traditional radio faded, but consistent exposure kept his songwriting widely recognized.
Scotty McCreery (Winner In 2011, Season 10)
At 30, he was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry after the success of his 2018 single “Five More Minutes.” This reignited his interest in traditional country music as well. Since then, his deep-baritone renditions of Elvis and Randy Travis have drawn regular headlines—and views.
Phillip Phillips (Winner In 2012, Season 11)
Phillip’s “Home” generated a record-breaking $5 million by 2013. That success was soon overshadowed when 19 Entertainment demanded 60% of his touring revenue, which caused a delay in new releases until 2017. The settlement cleared the way for a 2018 tour that was fully controlled by the artist.
Candice Glover (Winner In 2013, Season 12)
“Music Speaks,” her debut album, was delayed multiple times before finally being released in 2014. Despite including singles like “I Am Beautiful,” it received limited promotion and modest chart performance. To date, it remains her only major-label release after winning season 12 of “American Idol.”
Caleb Johnson (Winner In 2014, Season 13)
After parting ways with a famous label, Caleb’s creative direction shifted toward full independence. His new band, Caleb Johnson & The Ramblin’ Saints, became the outlet for blues-rock influences and long-form storytelling. Releases like “Born from Southern Ground” and “Mountain Mojo Vol. 1” captured that transition in full.
Nick Fradiani (Winner In 2015, Season 14)
Post-Idol, Broadway became a major chapter for Nick, with a national stage role as young Neil Diamond in “A Beautiful Noise.” Such a role placed him in venues known for iconic musical storytelling. Earlier visibility also included performing the national anthem at Yankee Stadium shortly after his season 14 win.
Trent Harmon (Winner In 2016, Season 15)
Once his first country release fell short of a breakout hit, Harmon quietly parted ways with his label. Public updates grew rare, with only occasional appearances hinting at ongoing work. Over time, there’s been little sign of a new project or steady creative direction in Harmon’s career.
Maddie Poppe (Winner In 2018, Season 16)
Following the release of “Whirlwind,” Maddie Poppe shifted focus from charts to connection; she booked her own tours and venues. Additionally, she took control of distribution and handled releases independently. Recent songs reflect a more intimate tone, which is why her shows often blend storytelling with acoustic arrangements.
Laine Hardy (Winner In 2019, Season 17)
Laine Hardy’s rising career was interrupted in 2022 due to legal issues with his ex-girlfriend. This interruption diverted attention from his career. Though no charges were filed, he reduced public activity and delayed new releases. Industry support also slowed, and recent updates from his team or label have been minimal.
Iam Tongi (Winner In 2023, Season 21)
Stage highlights and viral exposure built nationwide interest throughout the season. As visibility increased, Iam Tongi became a breakout figure for Pacific Islander identity in national music spaces. A few singles followed the win, but no complete album or tour has been formally introduced to audiences yet.
Abi Carter (Winner In 2024, Season 22)
Declining big labels, Abi released her debut album “Ghosts in the Backyard” in November 2024 as an independent artist. Further, she sang the national anthem at the MLB National League Championship Series and also performed at D23 and New York Fashion Week. Carter launched her 2025 tour and is scheduled for Stagecoach 2025 alongside Zach Bryan.
Jamal Roberts (Winner in 2025, Season 23)
Jamal Roberts captured hearts as the 2025 American Idol winner, following his victory with a soulful cover of Tom Odell’s “Heal” while developing original gospel and R&B music. He is also preparing for Brandy and Monica’s prestigious fall tour. Despite rising fame, he returned to his P.E. teaching job and continues to perform locally across Mississippi.
Did you enjoy watching “Jurassic Park” and want to see more dinosaur movies? These ancient creatures have inspired countless films, each offering a unique take on the prehistoric world. Here are 10 other dinosaur movies you should check out.
The Land Before Time
Released in 1988, “The Land Before Time” is a timeless animated tale of resilience and friendship. Directed by Don Bluth, the film is about five young dinosaurs on a perilous journey to the Great Valley. Its emotional depth and stunning visuals resonate with audiences of all ages.
Dinotopia: Quest For The Ruby Sunstone
This animated film is set on the island of Dinotopia, where humans and dinosaurs coexist peacefully. It follows 12-year-old orphan Kex Bradley, who, after a shipwreck, discovers Dinotopia and embarks on a quest to prevent Ogthar from using the powerful Ruby Sunstone to endanger the island.
King Kong
The film is about a daring adventure to Skull Island. There, they encounter colossal creatures, including the mighty Kong and a fearsome T. rex. Kong’s battle with the Dinosaur. The story unfolds as the captured Kong is brought to New York, leading to the unforgettable finale atop the Empire State Building.
Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs
This 2009 “Ice Age” sequel takes audiences into a lush underground dinosaur world. Sid the sloth hilariously adopts dinosaur eggs, and this leads to chaos. Comedic twists and heartwarming moments, paired with vibrant animation, make it a standout family adventure filled with fun.
Dinosaur
Disney’s “Dinosaur” (2000) blends breathtaking CGI with live-action backgrounds. The story centers on Aladar, an orphaned iguanodon who leads his herd to safety after a meteor strike. With groundbreaking animation and powerful themes of survival, the film has earned a lasting spot in cinematic history.
Walking With Dinosaurs
This BBC documentary series, launched in 1999, revolutionized how prehistoric life was portrayed. Narrated by Kenneth Branagh, it combines scientific accuracy with cinematic storytelling. Dinosaur migration and extinction are portrayed vividly, which makes it a must-watch for any dinosaur enthusiast.
The Good Dinosaur
Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur” (2015) imagines a world where dinosaurs never went extinct. Arlo, a timid apatosaurus, befriends a wild human boy, Spot. Together, they go through beautifully animated terrain, exploring themes of courage and family. This emotional journey leaves a lasting impact.
One Million Years BC
Premiered in 1966, this fantasy film, directed by Don Chaffey, dazzles with its iconic stop-motion dinosaurs created by Ray Harryhausen. This movie explores Raquel Welch’s Loana and her tribe’s encounters with deadly creatures and rival clans. It is a thrilling tale of survival and adventure.
The Valley Of Gwangi
Cowboys battling dinosaurs? That’s the premise of this unique 1969 film. Directed by Jim O’Connolly, it showcases jaw-dropping stop-motion effects by Ray Harryhausen. A Tyrannosaurus rampages through a Wild West town, blending two genres into a thrilling spectacle for fans of both.
Prehistoric Planet
Narrated by David Attenborough, “Prehistoric Planet” (2022) offers a look at dinosaurs by bringing them to life with stunning CGI and expert storytelling. Each episode showcases different aspects of prehistoric life, from predators’ hunting strategies to herbivores’ migration patterns.
The Wild West was a land of untamed ambition, where fortunes were made, reputations were forged, and consequences were often swift. Many figures who lived on the edge met dramatic fates, some at the hands of rivals, others through unexpected twists. Here’s how ten legendary names reached their final moments.
Billy The Kid’s Last Encounter
No fugitive slipped through the cracks like Billy the Kid—until his luck ran dry. On July 14, 1881, Sheriff Pat Garrett tracked him to Fort Sumner, New Mexico. A brief confrontation in the dark brought the chase to an abrupt conclusion, which left behind one of the West’s most enduring legends.
Jesse James And The Ultimate Betrayal
Infamous for his bold escapades, Jesse James never imagined his undoing would come from within. On April 3, 1882, Robert Ford, a trusted gang member, seized an opportunity. As James turned his back to straighten a picture on the wall, Ford took action, forever changing the outlaw’s story.
Wild Bill Hickok’s Unfinished Game
On August 2, 1876, while deep in a poker game in Deadwood, Jack McCall approached unnoticed. A sudden move from behind sealed Hickok’s fate, which left him forever tied to the now-famous “dead man’s hand.” Every gambler takes risks, but Wild Bill Hickok never saw this one coming.
Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid’s Uncertain Fate
Chased across borders and forced into hiding, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid sought refuge in Bolivia. After authorities closed in, an intense standoff erupted in 1908. Some say it was their last stand, but whispers of their escape have kept the mystery alive for generations.
Doc Holliday’s Unexpected Ending
Known for his fierce presence, Doc Holliday defied expectations by succumbing not to conflict but to illness on November 8, 1887. It was in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, where he faced his final hours. With a whisper of irony, his rumored last words—“This is funny”—added a poetic twist to his story.
Pat Garrett’s Turn Of Fortune
Once a formidable lawman, Pat Garrett met an unforeseen downfall. On February 29, 1908, a land dispute in New Mexico escalated beyond negotiation. Left with no chance to react, his final moments remain clouded in speculation, ensuring his own story ended as mysteriously as the legends he pursued.
Belle Starr’s Mysterious Departure
The Bandit Queen’s reputation made her a target, and on February 3, 1889, someone finally sought their revenge. While riding near her home in Oklahoma, an unknown figure struck her down. Suspicion fell on rivals and close acquaintances, but no one was ever held accountable for her fate.
Tom Horn’s Last Words
With a reputation built on precision, Tom Horn’s downfall came not from the frontier but from his own words. Accused of wrongdoing, he was found guilty after a damning statement. On November 20, 1903, in Wyoming, he faced the final consequence of his actions, which left behind a legacy still debated today.
Bill Doolin’s Final Escape Attempt
A strategist at heart, Bill Doolin believed he could stay ahead of the law forever. That belief collapsed on August 24, 1896, when Deputy U.S. Marshal Heck Thomas cornered him. The outlaw had evaded capture time and again, but that night, there were no more paths left to take.
Sam Bass And The Heist That Never Happened
Sam Bass thrived on high-stakes schemes, but his grand ambitions caught up with him. On July 21, 1878, his attempt at a major heist was intercepted in Round Rock, Texas. Caught in the chaos, he was left severely wounded. Days later, his story ended, and his final plan was left unfinished.
Movie quotes are more than just words—they capture emotions and moments that stay with us forever. Some make us laugh, others give us chills, and a few inspire us to see the world differently. Here are ten unforgettable lines that have shaped cinema history.
“I’m the king of the world!”
Jack Dawson shouts this exuberant line in “Titanic” (1997) as he claims the ship’s bow as his personal throne. Arms wide, spirit soaring, he embodies pure, unfiltered joy. Would you believe this iconic moment was not even in the script? It was an ad-lib by Leonardo Dicaprio.
“May the Force be with you.”
First spoken by General Dodonna in “Star Wars” (1977), this blessing became a hallmark of the series. The line was meant to encourage Rebel pilots before their battle against the Death Star. It’s proof that faith in the Force is universal, even in galaxies far, far away.
“I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.”
In “The Godfather” (1972), Vito Corleone describes his persuasive power with this phrase. The line explains his method of negotiation: lethal consequences masked by calm authority. Who knew threats could sound so polite and chilling at the same time?
“You’re gonna need a bigger boat.”
Chief Brody utters this remark in “Jaws” (1975) after seeing the monstrous great white shark for the first time. Directed at his crewmates, it reflects his mounting fear and realization of the challenge ahead. The shark wasn’t the only thing making waves in this scene.
“Here’s looking at you, kid.”
Not in the original script, Rick Blaine says this improvised line multiple times in “Casablanca” (1942), with its final use coming during his farewell to Ilsa. It’s his way of expressing affection without showing vulnerability. Romance, sacrifice, and charm, all in one unforgettable moment.
“Why so serious?”
The Joker taunts his victims with this chilling catchphrase in “The Dark Knight” (2008). It first appears during a story about his scars, setting the tone for his chaotic philosophy. Ledger’s delivery made it clear that this wasn’t your ordinary comic book villain.
“Get busy living, or get busy dying.”
In “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994), Andy Dufresne’s words to Red reflect his unshakable resolve to reclaim his life despite his imprisonment. It’s a timeless reminder of the power of hope and the human spirit, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
“Wakanda forever!”
King T’Challa’s powerful words in “Black Panther” (2018) unite his people with pride and determination. Delivered during battles, the phrase becomes a force that inspires courage and loyalty. Far beyond just a declaration, it embodies a legacy of strength and resilience.
“This is Sparta!”
The ultimate battle cry, delivered with unmatched intensity, became an unforgettable moment in “300” (2006). King Leonidas roars it before kicking a Persian messenger into a pit, responding to threats of submission with pure defiance. It’s a scene packed with raw power and cinematic grandeur.
“I’ll be back.”
A chilling three-word promise became one of cinema’s most unforgettable moments. In “The Terminator” (1984), Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers this line to a police station desk clerk with unsettling calm before destroying everything, ultimately cementing his character’s relentless nature in film lore.
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