Ranking the American Idol Winners
As American Idol begins its 15th and final season, it's time to look back on the numerous superstars the Fox singing competition has created. While some are still at the top of the music industry, a few have failed to take off after the show. Read on to find out E! News' definitive ranking of every American Idol winner ever.
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15. Caleb Johnson, Season 13 and Nick Fradiani, Season 14 (tie)
Who? Exactly.
13. Trent Harmon, Season 15
As the last person to ever win American Idol, we had big hopes for Trent Harmon. He is currently working on his first album and has one single titled "There's A Girl," out now.
12. Taylor Hicks, Season Five
Dude's doing just fine in Vegas, but come on—should he have beaten Daughtry or Katharine McPhee?
11. Candice Glover, Season 12
Despite delivering one of the best performances Idol has ever seen ("Love Song," Google it and prepare for the chills), she's come up short in her post-Idol career.
10. Ruben Studdard, Season Two
Justice for Claymates!
9. Lee DeWyze, Season Nine
Oh look, a WGWG (white guy with guitar).
8. Kris Allen, Season Eight
With all due respect to the original WGWG (who was great), there's no way Adam Lambert shouldn't have won.
7. David Cook, Season Seven
Good dude. Solid career. Congrats, Cookie!
6. Scotty McCreery, Season Ten
Lock them doors, 'cause this kid's the real deal.
5. Fantasia Barrino, Season Three
Sure, Jennifer Hudson might have and Oscar, but Fantasia's done pretty well for herself too.
4. Jordin Sparks, Season Six
How are we supposed to breathe with no air?
3. Phillip Phillips, Season 11
The best WGWG of them all, with the catchiest coronation single ever (that would be "Home").
2. Carrie Underwood, Season Four
Duh.
1. Kelly Clarkson, Season One
All Hail Queen Kelly! We (and every subsequent Idol winner and contestant) bow down before thee.