How ‘American Idol’ Paved the Way for Singing Competition Shows — A History, Kelly Clarkson & After
If in the early 2000s you found yourself texting the number on your screen to vote for your favorite American Idol contestants, then you’ll be shocked to learn that September 4 marks 22 years since Kelly Clarkson was crowned victorious at the end of the very first season. The reality singing competition, which aired on June 11, 2002, was based off the UK-based series Pop Idol, but was a fast phenomenon once it hit people’s screens in the United States.
In the early days of Idol, you most likely remember the familiar faces that made up the panel of judges: Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell, with Ryan Seacrest and Brian Dunkleman as hosts. At the time, contestants were between the ages of 16 and 24, and amongst the wildly talented were also a few chuckle-worthy attempts — often shot down by Cowell, notoriously the toughest critic.
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At the end of the first season, Kelly Clarkson won the competition at only 20 years old. She first stunned judges when she auditioned with her rendition of Etta James’ “At Last” and is one of the many winners to enjoy wildly successful careers in the wake of her win.
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In a post shared to her Instagram back in 2022 on the 20th anniversary of her win, Clarkson said that it “changed the course of my life.” She continued, “That moment was the door that opened up so much access and opportunity, and created partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days. The family and friendships I have created over these 20 years in music and TV are priceless to me.”
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In the wake of Kelly Clarkson’s win came a handful of other winners that have taken the music industry by storm. Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks, Scotty McCreery and Phillip Phillips are just a handful of the artists to make waves within their genres.
And it’s not only the winners that have enjoyed success after their American Idol appearances. Runner-ups like Adam Lambert, David Archuleta and Lauren Alaina have also made their mark in the music world.
The show stopped airing in 2016 but returned after a two-year hiatus in 2018. This upcoming season will consist of a panel of judges that includes Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Love American Idol and want more shows like it? Check out these three below to get your fix!
The Voice (2011 — )
Another popular singing competition series on NBC, The Voice allows contestants to audition for a panel of judges with their backs to the performer. Hearing only their voice, each judge can decide whether or not they wish to turn their chair around for a shot at having the contestant be a part of their team.
America’s Got Talent (2006 — )
AGT allows contestants with all kinds of skills to audition for a shot at winning a million-dollar prize.
The Masked Singer (2019 — )
Though not exactly a talent competition like the others on this list, The Masked Singer is still a fun musical experience. Celebrities keep their identities a secret as they compete in a singing competition.
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