American Idol is the American version of the British television series "Pop Idol". It was created by Simon Fuller and premiered in June of 2002.
On American Idol, contestants audition to win the title of American Idol and a recording contract. For the 2006 season, they traveled to San Francisco, Greensboro, Las Vegas, Austin, Denver, Boston and Chicago. They audition before the producers, then audition before the judges.
After picking through contestants, the public is able to vote after performances, until we're left with one American Idol. Past winners include
Kelly Clarkson,
Ruben Studdard,
Fantasia Barrino,
Carrie Underwood,
Taylor Hicks,
Jordin Sparks, and
David Cook, the most successful being Clarkson and Underwood.
American Idol also brings success for its losers. From season 2,
Clay Aiken, and
Josh Gracin have sold thousands of records, with
Chris Daughtry selling millions with his band
Daughtry. Many other Idol alumni can be seen in the entertainment industry, such as season 3 contestant
Jennifer Hudson winning Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards for her role in
Dream Girls, which shows that even if you don't win, you can go onto major fame and success.
The judges are
Simon Cowell, who never fails to tell the cold truth,
Paula Abdul, who counters Simon's snark with sweetness and
Randy Jackson, who can usually give an honest yet kind opinion. The host is
Ryan Seacrest.