Best "American Idol" Contestants of All Time
Here is a look at singers who have been finalists in the televised singing competition.
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- Actor
- Soundtrack
A.J. Gil was born on 5 July 1984 in San Diego, California, USA. He is an actor, known for Destination Fame (2012), American Idol (2002) and Family Feud (1999).- Soundtrack
Aaron Kelly was born on 2 April 1993 in Sonestown, Pennsylvania, USA.- Actor
- Composer
- Producer
Ace Young is from Colorado and is an American Idol Season 5 finalist. He has just released his new single, "I Wanna Fall In Love Again", which he wrote and produced along with dear friend and Top Swedish Producer, Harry Sommerdahl, that is digitally distributed through Jimmy Buffett's Mailboat Records. He is a Grammy Nominated Songwriter and also holds multiple theatre credits including "Grease" & "Hair" on Broadway.- Actor
- Music Department
- Composer
Adam Lambert is a Grammy-nominated international artist, actor, philanthropist, and LGBTQ+ activist.
As the first openly gay male artist to top the Billboard album charts, Adam has released five studio albums to date, amassing more than three million album sales worldwide-all while honoring the legacy of Freddie Mercury as the frontman of the iconic band, Queen.
Adam counts the British Royal Family among his fans. A personal invitation from HRH The Princess of Wales had him performing at last year's Royals: Together At Christmas and previously for HRH Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee, opening the show alongside Brian May and Roger Taylor.
Recent highlights include the release of Adam's latest top 10 charting album, High Drama, headlining London Pride, and showcasing his acting skills in Sofia Coppola's Fairyland, as well as the five-time Academy Award-winning film Bohemian Rhapsody.
Continuing his support for the LGBTQ+ community, Adam founded the Feel Something Foundation, a non-profit organization supporting LGBTQ+ human rights. The foundation raises funds and contributes to marginalized and underrepresented groups globally.
Adam continues to gain superstar momentum worldwide. This year, he will join the judging panel of The Voice Australia, work on his highly anticipated 6th Studio Album, and embark on a stadium tour across Japan after a successful North American tour with Queen last year. In 2024, Adam will release an ITV documentary exploring the LGBTQ+ experience within the music industry, featuring interviews with iconic musicians spanning multiple decades.- Actress
- Soundtrack
Alexis Grace was born on 9 June 1987 in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. She is an actress, known for Trailer Park Boys: Out of the Park (2016), Bad, Bad Men (2016) and Jacir (2022).- Actress
- Composer
- Music Department
Allison Iraheta was born on 27 April 1992 in Los Angeles, California, USA. She is an actress and composer, known for Lost Time (2014), The Short Game (2013) and Adam Lambert: If I Had You (2010).- Amanda Overmyer was born on 26 October 1984 in Mulberry, Indiana, USA. She has been married to Casey Taylor since 23 August 2008.
- Soundtrack
- Soundtrack
Amy Adams was born on 25 July 1979 in Kansas City, Kansas, USA. She has been married to Ross Varner since 4 October 2004. They have one child.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Andrew Garcia was born on 8 October 1985 in Moreno Valley, California, USA. He is an actor, known for JustKiddingFilms (2007), American Idol (2002) and Whistle While I Work It (2013).- Actor
- Soundtrack
Anoop Desai was born in Cary, North Carolina, USA. He is an actor, known for Under the Bridge (2024), What We Do in the Shadows (2019) and Babygirl.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Anthony Fedorov was born on 4 May 1985 in Yalta, Crimean Oblast, Ukrainian SSR, USSR [now Crimea, Ukraine]. He is an actor, known for American Idol (2002), Ben Elohim and Katya (2011). He has been married to Jennifer Paz since 25 December 2012. They have one child.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Anwar Robinson was born on 21 April 1979 in East Orange, New Jersey, USA. He is an actor, known for American Idol (2002), Friends & Lovers: The Ski Trip 2 (2008) and Friends & Lovers (2010).- Soundtrack
Ashthon Jones came into this world with musical roots strong within her family and remembered her first musical beginnings singing her heart out in church. She received her early training when she would make runs to Valdosta, Georgia to stay with her cousins.
Some of her musical influences are the Clark Sisters, Mary Mary, Monica, Destiny's Child, and Mary J. Blige.
For 6 years Ashthon had been working on her singing career in Nashville when she finally landed her first publishing deal with a major publishing company at the ripe age of 19. Little did she know this would lead into many more blessings.
All the while, Ashthon always kept up with American Idol and wanted to audition from day one. That fateful day came when her mother called her and told her it was her time. With out a second thought, Ashthon quit her job and went to the audition. Wearing number 8838 she went in front of Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez whom unanimously voted her in. SHE WAS GOING TO HOLLYWOOD! She made it into the FINALS and has never looked back. From an IDOL WORLD TOUR and a myriad of interviews from "LIVE with Regis & Kelly" to "Entertainment Tonight" and "MTV News", Ashthon has experienced what others only dream of.
More recently Ashthon has performed on a segment of BRAVO Networks HIT television series "Married to Medicine" which was received by network management with wide acclaim. With her eye on the prize, Ashthon is already giving back early in her career by recorded a song on First Lady Michelle Obama's "Song for a Healthier America" hip-hop album, which has been featured on GRAMMY.com's "Exclusive First Listen" and has performed at the album release at Symphony Space in New York City. She has also been featured in other well recognized projects such as Lacrae's GRAMMY winning album with Big KRIT on the single, "Mayday", as well as Big KRIT's new single "Good 2Gether". Released by Def Jam it has been rising in the charts.- Avalon Jean Young is a singer-songwriter whose talents and experience far outweigh her years.
Quickly learning that her love for music was intertwined with her love for writing, she dropped out of college in 2013 to dedicate all of her time to the music. Young's journey through the industry has since been steadfast, and the breadth of her experience only adds to her artistry as a writer and musician.
Shortly after leaving college, she released her first EP-an acoustic, self-written tape. Since then, Young's dedication to her craft has allowed her to grow in all areas of her career; from writing for other artists in multiple genres, expanding her fan base by becoming a Top 8 Finalist on American Idol's Farewell Season, releasing an additional EP, and performing all across the country on tour with fellow emerging artists Xavier Omar, Jeff Bernat, and Joyce Wrice, her experiences are more than most at the age of 23.
Most recently, the release of her latest album Shift hit #2 on the iTunes R&B Album Charts, adding yet another swing of momentum to an already blooming career.
Young's music consists of palatable stories with an added layer of vulnerability--feeling poetic, simplistic, and bold all at once. Her voice feels unmistakably natural, and her effortless vocals leave you intrigued to hear not only her range, but also what she has to say.
Having spent years honing her craft, Young's keen ability to write palatable, raw, beyond-the-surface lyrics builds a direct connection between her and her listeners, allowing you to see the true power of her penmanship. Her infectiously smooth vocals only add wings to her writing talents, making Avalon Young a true musical triple threat whose career is bound to fly. - Actor
- Writer
- Composer
Blake Lewis was born on 21 July 1981 in Redmond, Washington, USA. He is an actor and writer, known for Blake Lewis Is Shitting in My Bathroom (2009), Free Radio (2007) and Mermaid.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Bo Bice was born on 1 November 1975 in Helena, Alabama, USA. He is an actor, known for American Idol (2002), Blades of Glory (2007) and Last Ounce of Courage (2012). He has been married to Caroline Fisher since 15 June 2005. They have three children.- Actor
- Music Department
- Soundtrack
Brandon Rogers was born on 11 December 1977 in North Hollywood, California, USA. He is an actor, known for Coming 2 America (2021), Missing Audrey (2010) and Bones (2005).- Actress
- Soundtrack
Brooke Elizabeth White was born and raised in Arizona with her parents and three younger siblings. She began singing at the age of fifteen when she tried out for the musical "Meet me in St. Louis" and got the leading role. In 2008 she tried out for American Idol and was among the top twelve and finally finished in fifth place. After American Idol she released an album titled "High Hopes & Heartbreak", executive produced by Randy Jackson. In 2010, she recorded songs for the soundtracks "The Jenson Porject" and "Secrets of the Mountain".- Actor
- Soundtrack
Bucky Covington was born on 8 November 1977 in Rockingham, North Carolina, USA. He is an actor, known for Under the Stadium Lights (2021), American Idol (2002) and Bucky Covington feat. Shooter Jennings: Drinking Side of Country (2012). He has been married to Hannah Borders since 17 October 2020. He was previously married to Crystal Callahan.- Soundtrack
- C.J. Harris was born on 28 January 1991 in Jasper, Alabama, USA. He died on 15 January 2023 in Jasper, Alabama, USA.
- Actress
- Soundtrack
Camile Velasco was born on 1 September 1985 in Makati City, Philippines. She is an actress, known for The Big V (2008), The Black Eyed Peas: Bebot, Version 2 (2006) and The Black Eyed Peas: Bebot, Version 1 (2006).- Actress
- Soundtrack
Candice Glover is known for Underground (2016), Colors (2021) and GRITS: Girls Raised in the South (2019).- Actress
- Soundtrack
Carly Smithson was born on 12 September 1983 in Dublin, Ireland. She is an actress, known for Fools of Fortune (1990), We Are the Fallen: Bury Me Alive (2010) and American Idol (2002). She has been married to Todd Smithson since 17 August 2004. They have one child.- Actress
- Soundtrack
Carmen was born of Norwegian heritage on March 25, 1985 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada to Carl and Michelle Rasmusen. The second of four children, Carmen began playing piano at the age of six. She spent most of her childhood performing; singing, dancing (includes cheerleading, tap, ballet and hip-hop dance) until going to Hollywood in early 2003 and becoming one of the Top Twelve Finalists (out of 50,000 competitors) for "American Idol". She is aspiring to attend Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah and become a dermatologist.- Music Artist
- Actress
- Music Department
Carrie Underwood was born on 10 March 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA. She is a music artist and actress, known for Soul Surfer (2011), The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010) and How I Met Your Mother (2005). She has been married to Mike Fisher since 10 July 2010. They have two children.- Actor
- Writer
- Composer
Casey Abrams is known for Charming the Hearts of Men (2021), Casey Abrams is Homeless! (2013) and Love & Debt (2019).- Actor
- Composer
- Soundtrack
Casey James was born on 31 May 1982 in Plano, Texas, USA. He is an actor and composer, known for American Idol (2002), Teddy Pendergrass & Lisa Fischer: Glad to Be Alive (1990) and Urban Cowboy (2016). He was previously married to Kellie Lister.- Chikezie Eze was born on 11 September 1985 in Inglewood, California, USA. He is an actor, known for General Hospital (1963), Access Hollywood (1996) and American Idol Christmas (2009). He has been married to Linda Iruke since 10 July 2011.
- Actor
- Music Department
- Soundtrack
Chris Daughtry was born on 26 December 1979 in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, USA. He is an actor, known for Wanderlust (2012), Criminal Minds (2005) and NCIS: Los Angeles (2009). He has been married to Deanna Daughtry since 11 November 2000. They have four children.- Actor
- Composer
- Soundtrack
Chris Richardson was born on 19 February 1984 in Chesapeake, Virginia, USA. He is an actor and composer, known for November Rule (2015), Paris Hilton: Come Alive (2014) and Tyga Feat. Chris Richardson: Far Away (2011).- Actor
- Cinematographer
- Soundtrack
Chris Sligh was born on 13 April 1978 in Madison, Tennessee, USA. He is an actor and cinematographer, known for October Baby (2011), Markees vs. (2013) and CMT Insider (2004).- Actress
- Soundtrack
Christina Christian was born on 21 June 1981 in Brooklyn, New York, USA. She is an actress, known for Burn Notice (2007), CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2000) and Celia: The Queen (2008). She has been married to Nicholas Cewe since 2004. They have one child.- Actor
- Composer
- Soundtrack
Clark Beckham is known for Christmas Inheritance (2017), The Poor Cowards (2013) and 5 Stages (2014).- Actor
- Producer
- Director
Clayton Holmes Grissom was born on November 30, 1978 in Raleigh, North Carolina, to Faye Aiken Parker and Vernon Grissom. When Clay was a teenager, he had a love for teaching and helping young children and later on studied to became a school teacher. When he was about 23 years old, a longtime friend persuaded him to audition for American Idol. When he was 25 years old he released his debut album, "Measure of a Man." (singles from his debut album include: "Invisible," "This Is The Night" and "The Way") His debut album sold over 600,000 copies in the USA in its first week of release. It has sold almost 2.5 million in the US as of 4/16/04.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Clint Jun Gamboa is known for The Room (2003), The Heidi Selexa Show (2014) and American Idol (2002).- Actor
- Composer
- Music Department
Colton Dixon was born to Teresa and Michael Dixon and has a younger sister, Schyler Dixon. [2] He is also a devout Christian.[3] He graduated from Middle Tennessee School in 2009. Originally rising to fame as lead singer in the Christian rock band, Messenger, formed in 2010, he became a favorite during the early auditions of American Idol. Dixon auditioned in the tenth season, along with his sister Schyler, at the Nashville auditions. However, neither of them ended up in the Top 24. After he was sent home, Dixon performed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on March 3, 2011. Dixon returned in season 11, however he did not plan to audition, initially planning to merely accompany his sister Schyler to her audition. The judges implored Dixon to audition as well, where he sang David Cook's "Permanent". Both he and Schyler were awarded golden tickets. Schyler was cut yet again during the Las Vegas round, which brought him to tears.- Actor
- Producer
- Writer
Constantine Maroulis was born on 17 September 1975 in Brooklyn, New York, USA. He is an actor and producer, known for Rock of Ages (2012), The Bold and the Beautiful (1987) and Kittens in a Cage (2015).- Actor
- Soundtrack
Corey Clark was born on 13 July 1980 in San Bernardino, California, USA. He is an actor, known for American Idol (2002), The Notorious B.I.G. Feat. P. Diddy, Nelly, Jagged Edge & Avery Storm: Nasty Girl (2005) and Out of control (2008).- Actress
- Soundtrack
Crystal Bowersox was born on 4 August 1985 in Elliston, Ohio, USA. She is an actress, known for American Idol (2002), Crystal Bowersox: Farmer's Daughter (2010) and Body of Proof (2011). She has been married to Brian L. Walker since 10 October 2010.- Dalton Louis Rapattoni is an American musician. At the age of 12 he began guitar lessons at a local School of Rock due to reoccurring seizures from a change of medication. He was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder at the age of 9. He started a garage band with childhood friends known as Fly Away Hero. Dalton plays guitar, bass, drums, piano, and sings. He joined a boyband known as IM5 in 2012, and left the group in 2014. He then reunited with Fly Away Hero and released an EP known as Lost And Found. Dalton participated in the final season of American Idol and finished 3rd place. He has toured on the School of rock gives back tour, Inspired attempt tour, and the acoustic attempt tour. Dalton has released his singles Stop, and Turn to stone, along with his renderation of Happy Christmas.
- Actor
- Composer
- Writer
Daniel Seavey is known for Lauv Feat. BTS: Who (Visualizer) (2020), Why Don't We: How Do You Love Somebody (2022) and Why Don't We: Hooked (2018).- Music Artist
- Actor
- Soundtrack
Danny Gokey was born on 24 April 1980 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. He is a music artist and actor, known for What About Love (2013), Walk. Ride. Rodeo. (2019) and Danny Gokey: New Day (2021). He has been married to Leyicet Gokey since 29 January 2012. They have four children. He was previously married to Sophia Martinez.- Actor
- Composer
- Editor
In 2008, more than 30 million television viewers fell in love with David Archuleta; with his angelic voice, bashful sweetness, and megawatt smile, over 44 million votes made him the first runner-up in Season 7 of American Idol - and a star at age 16.
Shortly after "Idol," David's first single, "Crush," debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track sold more than 2 million digital copies to become double platinum. Three months later, his self-titled album, David Archuleta, sold more than 900,000 copies worldwide.
With a faithful social media following (3.5 million Facebook followers, 1.1 million on Twitter, and almost 1 million followers on TikTok), David has toured all over the U.S., Canada, Asia, and even in the Middle East. In 2017, he relocated to Nashville and released his seventh album Postcards in the Sky featuring all original songs that he had a hand in writing.
The game-changer though was David's 2020 album, Therapy Sessions, which featured an inside look into his internal struggle with himself - a battle he has experienced for most of his life. He carried a heavy burden by trying to be something he was not while knowing that who he really was would put him at odds with the church he grew up in. "I was going through therapy, and trying to apply the steps it took to escape the barriers I had created for myself," he explains. "Music has always been healing for me and I hoped that what I created on that album would help people who were also struggling with who they were."
In 2021, David came out as queer to the LGBTQ community and continues to navigate his identity. During this time, he also had vocal cord surgery, which left him unable to speak much for 3 months, resulting in a period of self-reflection.
In the summer of 2022, David shared his powerful coming-out journey at the Love Loud Festival, which left both the audience and David in tears. David then made his professional musical theater debut as "Joseph" in the acclaimed Andrew Lloyd Weber/Tim Rice musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. "Performing in Joseph really helped me connect with audiences in a way I hadn't before. I was more reserved and unsure as a performer, and doing the show was part of the process of unlocking things within me."
In the fall of 2022, David revealed to Good Morning America that he was experiencing a faith crisis and stepping away from the Church of Latter-Day Saints, having been a Mormon his whole life. He then rounded out 2022 with the release of "Faith in Me," his first song since having vocal cord surgery and, by far, one of his more personal songs. "It's about being OK with who you are and moving forward. Not caring about what anyone thinks, just letting go of baggage, forging your own path and finding joy." says David. "We actually re-wrote the song to accommodate where I was personally at the time of the recording."
2023 is shaping up to be the Year of Archuleta, not the least of which is because of his return to television. The Masked Singer saw David spread his wings (and end up a finalist) as the Macaw, a bird known for its exuberant personality. An audience favorite, David rose to the top against other heavyweight vocalists such as Pentatonix, Michael Bolton and Sara Evans. "Being the Macaw was exciting because it was like becoming a new person. Even though people couldn't see me in the costume, it allowed me to show a lot more of myself. I could be a lot louder with my personality and really let loose and spread my wings. I was able to show the colors I was too afraid to show and tap deeper emotionally in my performances." said David
David's also gone 'home' to American Idol, where he's a mentor to up-and-comers like he once was. "It has been a beautiful experience. I have watched the show from the first season and then competed in the 7th season of the show, which was already full circle for me. It was an honor to be asked back as a 'seasoned professional' to work with the contestants. It was fun, and it felt good be able to help others develop their talent, and have people say I was an inspiration," he says. "Looking back to when I first watched, I can't believe I would be there for people like Kelly Clarkson and Tamyra Gray were for me."
David's latest single is "Up," and while not a continuation of "Faith in Me," it's similar in its optimism. "Faith in Me" was about me learning to have fun, and not take everything so seriously. "Up" is more of a reflective song. It's looking at my journey and seeing how far I've come," he says. "I hit rock bottom. I thought I wouldn't get through it, but here I am. I thought I was hopeless and that I'd failed, but here I am. Even when you're at your lowest, you need to realize you can only go UP. You need to hold on to that glimmer of hope and say, I am going to turn any type of hate and negativity into positivity and love. It's a song about finding the strength you didn't know you had in you. And replacing any fear and hate with love. Especially self-love."
"Up" will be part of a bigger project David's working on, with a plan to record more music later this year for an album. "I am ready to share this new chapter and be comfortable with who I am as a performer. I'd like to go on tour when I figure myself out a little more, you know? My music was always formed around my beliefs, so I want to work out what I should put my faith in now. I can say that for the first time, I felt like I've taken my power back after having given it away for so long. That's a huge step."- Actor
- Executive
- Soundtrack
David Cook grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri where he graduated high school then went to Central Missouri State for Graphic Design. He formed a band, Axium, with friends Bobby Kerr and Jeff Shrout, and recorded 3 albums, plus a live album. His band Axium created a great fan base in Kansas City area as well as Tulsa, OK and smaller towns around the country. He plays a white left-handed Gibson guitar that was specially made for him. He had become friends with Andy Skib and Neal Tiemann, lead singer and lead guitarist, respectively of Tulsa-based band, MidWest Kings. After moving to Tulsa after graduating college, he joined MidWest Kings. He released his own album in 2006, Analog Heart which won an UrbanTulsa Weekly award for Indie Album in 2006.- Actor
- Music Artist
DavidHernandez gained national attention with his dynamic voice and affable personality as a Top12 AmericanIdol finalist. A true self-made artist with the potential to transcend any genre, David is a force to be reckoned with. Possessing the ability to reinvent himself and sustain in an ever-changing industry while maintaining edge & drive, David constantly evolves.
In addition to American Idol, David has showcased his talents on The Ellen Show, The Today Show, MTV's TRL, EXTRA, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, Teen Choice Awards, & TV Guides' Sexiest Stars to name a few.
With soulful powerhouse vocals, he has been touring the world while writing and producing his original music. Most notably he was invited to sing at the Inaugural Kick-Off Celebration ball for Barack Obama, performing alongside celebrity recording artists John Legend & Maroon 5.
David's hit single, "Beautiful" reached the Top 100 of the Billboard Dance charts while the music video was a viral sensation. His recent releases this past year include self-produced songs & music videos, "Sorry", "Kingdom" & his summer anthem,"Boomerang". Additionally, his most recent album "Don't@Me" is available on all digital platforms. The new singles & music videos "ily." & "When it rains, it pours" are available now.
David has streamed 70+ virtual shows during the pandemic and most recently completed his 6 month residency in the NYC's Off-Broadway musical comedy, "Naked Boys Singing" & became a Broadway World Awards winner for "Best Performer in a Musical". David counts Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Whitney Houston, Donnie Hathaway, Alicia Keys, Luther Vandross, Beyoncé & Michael Jackson among his musical influences.- Actor
- Soundtrack
DeAndre Brackensick is known for American Idol (2002), Rock Bottom and Living Courageous with Ken Foreman (2020).- Soundtrack
- Actress
- Soundtrack
Diana DeGarmo, a country girl from Georgia and American Idol Season 3 Runner-Up just released her first real Country EP, "Live To Love", composed of songs she co-wrote with new fiancé Ace Young, that is digitally distributed through Jimmy Buffett's Mailboat Records. She has multiple Theatre credits including "Hairspray" & "HAIR" on Broadway and was just recently seen as Angelina Veneziano on the Number 1 Daytime TV Drama, "The Young & The Restless."- Actress
- Soundtrack
Didi Benami was born on 25 October 1986 in New York, USA. She is an actress, known for Pure Genius (2016), Picture Yourself (2017) and Theory of a Deadman: Hurricane (2012).- Soundtrack
EJay Day was born on 13 September 1981 in Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA.- Actress
- Writer
- Soundtrack
Elise Testone is known for American Idol (2002), Elise Testone: Now (2015) and Live at the Charleston Music Hall (2016).- Actor
- Composer
- Music Department
Elliott Yamin was born on 20 July 1978 in Los Angeles, California, USA. He is an actor and composer, known for American Idol (2002), The Bold and the Beautiful (1987) and Twilight: The Story of Hope.- Soundtrack
- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Fantasia Barrino was born on 30 June 1984 in High Point, North Carolina, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for The Color Purple (2023), The Butler (2013) and American Idol (2002). She has been married to Kendall Taylor since 19 July 2015. They have one child.- Actor
- Soundtrack
George Huff was born on 4 November 1980 in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. He is an actor, known for American Idol (2002), The Remnant and Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear's 'All in the Family' and 'The Jeffersons' (2019).- Director
- Writer
- Producer
Gianna Isabella Magliocco is known for A Portrait of Redemption in Five Acts, Untitled Poveglia Island Documentary and A Wrinkle in Time (2018).- Gina Glocksen was born on 4 July 1984 in Naperville, Illinois, USA. She has been married to Joe Ruzicka since 31 December 2008. They have one child.
- Actress
- Music Department
- Composer
A timeless voice outlasts eras. It feels just as at home in the sixties as it does in the TikTok age. It also resounds louder as time goes on. Haley Reinhart brandishes such a voice. The expansive scope of her range comes into full focus on her 4th album, Lo-Fi Soul. In many ways, Haley began working towards this album and her artistry as a child. Mom and dad share a "Midnight Band," and unsurprisingly, their daughter would sing before she could talk. She spent countless hours engaged in rhyming games with her mother or locked into a call-and-response as a baby with her father.
In 2009, Haley was the first songstress ever to join her high school jazz band where they performed at both Montreux and Umbria jazz festivals. Her fascination with all things classic continued as she became a fan of The Beatles and Janis Joplin, to Ella Fitzgerald and Sly & The Family Stone. These influences also led her to record a full album at Sunset Sound, paying homage to classic rock and pop hits from the late sixties titled, What's That Sound. Haley plays regularly with Robby Krieger of The Doors among other rock legends; she continues to keep her rock 'n' roll roots intact.
The double platinum-certified Chicago-born/Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter exudes an empowering level of charisma and confidence earned by a quiet, decade-long grind. Haley landed third place and became a fan favorite on season 10 of American Idol. She recently returned to AI, this time as a mentor, coaching contestants singing in the Soul Genre. Her dynamic presence powered four solo albums- Listen Up! [2012] Interscope Records, Better [2016] Red Dot, What's That Sound? [2017] Concord Records, and Lo- Fi Soul [2019] on her self-owned label, Reinhart Records. Haley has been known to leave her mark on countless films and commercials singing in the new Mazda ad, Chase Bank, as well as shows including Love Island, Gossip Girl, Nashville, Riverdale, The Wilds, America's Got Talent, Dancing with the Stars, and the list goes on...
Meanwhile, Haley's take on the Elvis Presley classic, Can't Help Falling In Love generated over 325 million Spotify streams and 100 million YouTube views within a few years of its release. What started off as a version sung for an Extra Gum Commercial, turned out to be a chart topping-radio hit and touring sensation. Haley's remake of the song peaked at No. 17 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and No. 31 on the Billboard Adult Pop Airplay chart.
Haley has also embraced collaborating regularly with other talented musicians. She is featured on Postmodern Jukebox's highest viewed videos on YouTube (over 300 million views). And Haley has also dueted with legendary star Jeff Goldblum on two tracks from his chart-topping jazz standards collection, The Capitol Studios Sessions. Haley joined Jeff for an unforgettable performance on Jimmy Kimmel LIVE!. In 2019, she continued pushing boundaries by lending her voice and songwriting skills to Vicetone's EDM dance hit, Something Strange as well as an EDM version of Radiohead's Creep with DJ Naeleck in 2022.
Expanding her oeuvre, Haley voices a young boy named Bill Murphy on the Netflix hit animated series based on comedian Bill Burr's childhood - F Is For Family (seasons one through five out now). She made her acting debut in the #1 hit Robert Rodriguez film on Netflix titled, We Can Be Heroes, where she plays a superhero whose voice is her power.
Both 2022 and 2023 were banner years for Haley. In September 2022, Haley's newest EP - "Off The Ground" - released worldwide. The extended play features seven original songs all either written or co-written by Haley. From Fall 2022 to Fall 2023, Haley headlined her "Off The Ground Tour". She played to raved reviews in over 100 theaters and rock rooms throughout North America.
In 2024, Haley has taken her career to another level. After spending the first half of the year writing and recording a new album, Haley will embark on her headline tour, which will run from May to November 2024. The show is just beginning.- Haley Scarnato was born on 15 June 1982 in San Antonio, Texas, USA.
- Actor
- Soundtrack
Heejun Han is known for Autumn Sonata (2017), Witch's Castle (2015) and On the Way to the Airport (2016).- Second Unit Director or Assistant Director
- Soundtrack
Hollie Jessica Cavanagh is a singer who was born in Liverpool to Lorraine and Peter Cavanagh, She has two older brothers Luke and Aaron Cavanagh. She placed fourth on the eleventh season of American Idol. Cavanagh is a fan of Liverpool F.C., attended St Austin's Primary School in Aigburth and graduated from McKinney Boyd High School where she played football in 2011. She has a Lab and Golden Retriever mix named Shankly. she has one of the strongest fan base on American Idol called Holliepop. her voice is really pure, strong and beautiful. she said her debut is gonna be like Christina Aguilera first albums. she adores Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera and Adele.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Jacob Lusk is known for American Idol (2002), Materna (2020) and Love Chronicles: Secrets Revealed (2010).- Actor
- Composer
- Music Department
James Durbin is known for In the Blood (2019), American Idol (2002) and Talk Is Jericho (2013). He has been married to Heidi Lowe since 31 December 2011. They have two children.- Actress
- Producer
- Soundtrack
Janelle Arthur is known for Runnin' from My Roots (2018), Five Date Rule and Vevo Idol Insider (2014).- Soundtrack
Jasmine Murray was born on 12 December 1991 in Columbus, Mississippi, USA.- Actress
- Soundtrack
Jasmine Soriano Trias (born 3 November 1986), the Filipino-American 3rd place finalist on last year's "American Idol," will have her self titled debut album in stores July 12, 2005. Her new CD introduces an edgier, rhythm and blues-based sound. From the single, "Excuses" (already #1 in the Philippines) to "Sexy Boy," with its playful relaxed grooves.
Jasmine has quickly become a triple threat artist, expecting to play a singer and drummer in the film entitled "All Girl Band," written by the Academy Award-winning Sherman Brothers son, Jeff Sherman. Richard and Robert Sherman's works include "Mary Poppins," "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," "The Jungle Book" and "The Parent Trap."
Jasmine's debut album is being distributed throughout the United States, the Philippines, and Japan by Universal Music and Aloha Music. It contains 14 songs produced and written by multi platinum industry leaders, like Diane Warren and Vincent Herbert, and a remake by Sean "P. Diddy" Combs.- Additional Crew
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Jason Castro was born on 25 March 1987 in Dallas, Texas, USA. He is an actor, known for Black Easter (2021), Amar a morir (2009) and No me la puc treure del cap (2010). He has been married to Mandy Mayhall since 2 January 2010. They have four children.- Director
- Writer
- Actress
Jax was born on 5 May 1996. She is a director and writer, known for You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (2023), Jax: Bitchcraft (2020) and Children in the Woods (2009). She has been married to Braverijah Gregg since 4 November 2023.- Music Artist
- Producer
- Actress
Jennifer Kate Hudson was born on September 12, 1981 in Chicago, Illinois to Darnell Donerson (née Hudson) & Samuel Simpson. She is an Academy Award-winning actress, Grammy Award-winning recording artist and best-selling author. This bright, beautiful and booming-voiced talent is a perfect example of how NOT winning the title of American Idol (2002) can still be a superstar boon to your career and not the disappointment of a life time.
She earned minor attention as one of the twelve finalists on the third season of the FOX TV series in 2004, but finished an underwhelming sixth runner-up. Hudson grew up singing in gospel choirs, acting in community theater productions, singing on cruise ships and touring for in Disney's "Hercules: The Musical." With no formal musical training, her raw vocal power initially pleased the panel of Idol judges and she, Fantasia Barrino and La Toya London were initially promoted as the show's very own "Dreamgirls" and were expected to be the final three standing at the end of the competition. Surprisingly, all three were midway placed in the bottom group at one point, and Jennifer was cut from the pack. Fantasia eventually won the competition and, seemingly, all the glory and the fame.
Hudson appeared with the "American Idol" summer tour and performed on the road in concerts over the next two years. When it was time to audition for the coveted role of "Effie Melody White" in the long-awaited film version of the Broadway musical Dreamgirls (2006), among Jennifer's competition would be Fantasia herself. This time Jennifer was the winner and earned the right to play the coveted role. Immediately ordered to gain weight for the role, the film was loosely based on the real-life pursuits of The Supremes, with the character of Effie taking on the tragic form of the group's ill-fated co-founder Florence Ballard (1943-1976), but with a far less tragic ending.
Jennifer's performance became the most triumphant musical film debut since Barbra Streisand in Funny Girl (1968). Making the role her own, she delivered the same heart-breaking, gut-wrenching one-two punch that made Jennifer Holliday, who originated the role on stage, the toast of the Broadway scene in 1981. It was no easy task to outshine both Beyoncé and Eddie Murphy in one movie, but Jennifer was the movie's heart and soul and easily won over the critics. She went on to win not only the Oscar, Golden Globe, British Film, New York Film Critics and National Board of Review awards for "Best Supporting Actress," she picked up nearly every film critic's award there was to be had!
Hudson's meteoric rise made quite an impact in the world of music with the successful release of both her Sony/Arista Records albums. Her 2008 debut, self-titled record debuted at #2 on the "Billboard Hot 100" and won a Grammy Award for "Best R & B Album, and her sophomore album, "I Remember Me," also debuted at #2 and went on to win three awards at the 2009 NAACP Image Awards including "Best Album." Her third album, 2014's "JHUD," released by RCA, was a highly successful throwback to 70's inspired R&B.
Continuing to distinguish herself on the large screen, Jennifer began things off featured in the film version of Sex and the City (2008) with Sarah Jessica Parker. She then played the concerned daughter of compulsive gambler Forest Whitaker in the drama Winged Creatures (2008); earned a NAACP Image Award nomination for her moving effort in the tender drama The Secret Life of Bees (2008); portrayed Winnie Mandela opposite Terrence Howard's Nelson in the biopic Winnie Mandela (2011); co-starred with Whitaker again and Angela Bassett in the family Christmas drama Black Nativity (2013); co-starred as an amateur singer taken in by talent agent Adam Sandler in the romantic comedy Sandy Wexler (2017); appeared as Grizabella in the film version of the hit musical Cats (2019); and was given the opportunity to play the "Queen of Soul" herself, Aretha Franklin, in the biopic Respect (2021). Back in 2013, she was honored, at such a young stage, with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
On TV, Jennifer has played the recurring roles of Veronica Moore in the musical series Smash (2012) and Michelle White in the dramatic series Empire (2015). She also was given the distinction of playing and singing the role of Motormouth Maybelle in the live TV movie Hairspray Live! (2016).
As for other special live performances over the years, Jennifer was invited to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl XLVIII in Tampa, Florida on February 1, 2009. It would be her first live performance since the October 24, 2008 family tragedy of losing mother Darnell and older brother Jason in a domestic shooting incident. In January of 2013, she was asked to perform at the Obama Presidential Inaugural Ball and in 2019, was invited to sing the nominated song "I'll Fight" from the movie RBG (2018), a documentary chronicling the life and career of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Honored at VH1's Do Something Awards for her charitable work and also the recipient of the Samsung Galaxy Impact Award at Variety's Power of Women luncheon with the Samsung Galaxy Impact Award, Jennifer, along with her sister Julia Hudson, founded The Julian D. King Gift Foundation in 2009, as a catalyst for change in children's health, education and welfare. The Foundation exists to provide stability, support and positive experiences for children of all backgrounds so that they will become productive, confident and happy adults.
Expanding her talents in the arts, Hudson added author to her list of accomplishments in January 2012 with the release her New York Times best-selling memoir, "I Got This: How I Changed My Ways, Found Myself and Lost Everything that Weighed Me Down."- Actor
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Jeremy Rosado is known for Church Folks (2020), Street Redemption (2016) and An Encounter with the Messiah (2015).- Actor
- Soundtrack
Jermaine Jones is known for The North Star (2016), Second World: Blood, Fire and Smoke (2010) and Second World (2009).- Jess Meuse was born on 19 October 1990 in Dallas, Texas, USA. She is an actress, known for The Nature of Sin, Number JUAN Quarantine Concert on VBar Live (2020) and Access Hollywood (1996).
- Actress
- Soundtrack
Jessica Sanchez was born on 4 August 1995 in Chula Vista, California, USA. She is an actress, known for American Idol (2002), Glee (2009) and The Clash (2018).- Actress
- Soundtrack
Jessica Sierra was born on 11 November 1985 in Tampa, Florida, USA. She is an actress.- Actor
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Jim Verraros was born on 8 February 1983 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He is an actor, known for Eating Out (2004), Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds (2006) and Another Gay Sequel: Gays Gone Wild! (2008). He has been married to Bill Brennan since 6 September 2009.- Actress
- Music Department
Joey Cook is known for Kayla Bohan: Just Like You (2021), Postmodern Jukebox Feat. Joey Cook: Ain't No Rest for the Wicked (2017) and American Idol (2002).- Soundtrack
John Stevens was born on 28 July 1987 in Buffalo, New York, USA.- Director
- Writer
- Sound Department
Jon Peter Lewis is a celebrated singer-songwriter who gained national attention on American Idol as a finalist for the show's third season. Following his run on Idol, Lewis released two solo albums and three EP's; Stories From Hollywood, Break The Silence, self-titled Jon Peter Lewis, Roughcuts and Two Thousand Ten. Lewis also released two original Christmas singles, "It's Christmas" and "California Christmas."
In 2013, Lewis appeared on The Voice with pal Ryan Hayes as the folk duo Midas Whale. The duo received the coveted 4-chair turn by all of the coaches who praised Lewis and Hayes for their "brilliant vocals" and "incredible charisma." In 2014, the duo released it's debut album, Sugar House, funded by a successful Kickstarter campaign.
When Lewis first met Hayes in 2010 they began to collaborate on a rock opera written by Hayes and good friend Garrett Sherwood. Enlisted as co-producer, Lewis helped develop the musical, entitled Deep Love , for the stage. The theatrical event grew from 25 people in a living room to thousands of devoted fans filling theaters across the country. The production is presented entirely through haunting rock and folk music. Lewis, who also stars in the rock opera directs the production.
In 2015, Deep Love was selected from hundreds of candidates by a grand jury of Tony Award-winning directors and producers to be one of ten featured musicals produced for the News Link Project of the New York Musical Theatre Festival. The festival is the largest annual musical theatre festival in the United States and has been an incubator for hit Broadway shows. Deep Love had it's successful New York debut on July 27, 2015, followed by a sold out tour throughout the Western region. After the New York Debut, Deep Love's writing team was invited to attend the prestigious Johnny Mercer's writers colony as artists in residence. The critically praised stage show will open it's sixth season in October 2016.- Actress
- Producer
- Composer
Jordin Brianna Sparks was born on December 22, 1989 in Phoenix, Arizona and raised in Glendale, Arizona & Ridgewood, New Jersey. She was born to Jodi Beth Wiedmann & Phillippi Sparks. She rose to fame in 2007 after winning the sixth season of American Idol at age 17, becoming the youngest winner in the series' history. Her self-titled debut studio album, released later that year, was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and has sold over two million copies worldwide. The album spawned the Billboard Hot 100 top-ten singles "Tattoo" and "No Air"; the latter, a collaboration with Chris Brown, is currently the third highest-selling single by any American Idol contestant, selling over three million digital copies in the United States. The song earned Sparks her first Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. Sparks' second studio album, Battlefield (2009), debuted at number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart. Its title single reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, making Sparks the only American Idol contestant to have her first five singles reach the top 20 in the United States. The second single, "S.O.S. (Let the Music Play)", became Sparks's first number one on the Hot Dance Club Play chart. Throughout her career, Sparks has received numerous accolades, including an NAACP Image Award, a BET Award, an American Music Award, a People's Choice Award and two Teen Choice Awards. In 2009, Billboard magazine ranked her as the 91st Artist of the 2000s Decade. In 2012, Sparks was ranked at number 92 on VH1's list of the "100 Greatest Women in Music". As of February 2012, she has sold 1.3 million albums and 10.2 million singles in the United States alone, making her one of the most successful American Idol contestants of all time.
Following the release of Battlefield, Sparks ventured into acting, pursuing television and Broadway. She made her stage debut as Nina Rosario in the musical In The Heights (2010), and her feature film debut as the titular character in Sparkle (2012). Sparks has also released several perfumes, including Because of You... in 2010 as well as Fascinate and Ambition in 2012. After a five-year absence from music, she released a mixtape, #ByeFelicia (2014), under a new record deal with Louder Than Life/Red Associated Labels, a joint deal with Sony Music Entertainment. Sparks' R&B-focused third studio album and most recent to date, Right Here Right Now (2015), saw smaller commercial success but received positive reviews from music critics.- Soundtrack
Jorge Nuñez was born on 1 October 1987 in Cidra, Puerto Rico.- Actor
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Joshua Gracin was born on 18 October 1980 in Westland, Michigan, USA. He is an actor, known for American Idol (2002), The Young and the Restless (1973) and Flicka (2006). He has been married to Katie Weir since 6 May 2017. They have two children. He was previously married to Ann Marie Kovacs.- Music Department
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Joshua Ledet is known for American Idol (2002), So You Think You Can Dance (2005) and Serengeti (2019).- Soundtrack
Julia DeMato was born on 7 March 1979 in Danbury, Connecticut, USA.- Actor
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Justin Guarini was born in Columbus, Georgia, on October 28, 1978.
Dad Eldrin Bell is a former Atlanta police chief and Clayton County (Ga.) Commission Chair. Chief Bell is first cousin to acclaimed actor Samuel L. Jackson's wife, LaTonya.
Stepfather Jerry Guarini is a retired Navy physicist.
Mom Kathy is a former TV journalist and anchor at CNN and is now a freelance broadcast journalist and Realtor in Doylestown. Then president of the United States, Jimmy Carter, called in--from Airforce One--his best wishes to Kathy Guarini, whom he knew from her CNN association, upon hearing the news of Justin's birth. (Justin's godparents are Prince Faisal and his former wife, Princess Azia of Saudi Arabia.)
Raised in central Bucks County, Pennsylvania, by mom Kathy Pepino Guarini and step dad Jerry Guarini, Justin was born in Columbus, Georgia, where his mom was an anchor for the local 'Action 9 News' on WTVM. Kathy also anchored news programs in Philadelphia and Atlanta (CNN), where she met Justin's father, Eldrin Bell, who rose through the ranks of the Atlanta police department to become its commissioner.
Justin was accepted into the Atlanta Boys Choir at four years old. The Choir generally does not accept children under six years of age.
With a mother in the television industry, and a father always in the public spotlight, Justin's drive to entertain came naturally. His sister says that he imitated Michael Jackson's style and was known to 'moonwalk' around the house. His first concert was The Jacksons' "Victory Tour." Justin met his idol, Stevie Wonder, at Quincy Jones' birthday party held at Spago restaurant in LA on March 15, 2003.
Justin has a large family-- he has nineteen brothers and sisters! It was reported in the Atlanta Journal Constitution that Eldrin has 13 children - nine of whom are adopted. Jerry reportedly has eight children, including Justin.
At Lenape Middle School, Justin impressed Bucks County Music Festival director Donald Dumpson - a professor at Westminster Choir College and composer who has worked with notables like Patti LaBelle and Boyz II Men - so thoroughly that he canceled the rest of the auditions. Justin's solo at the festival, "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child," won him a standing ovation.
Justin attended University of the Arts, Philadelphia, and School for Film & Television, New York City (1999-2000). One of his classmates was Scott Holroyd, formerly Paul Ryan on "As the World Turns." A middle school acquaintance was fellow choir member at the time, pop singer Pink.
In 1996, Justin helped to form an a Capella group with school friends. "The Midnight Voices" was founded "to serenade their 'female friends' the night before high school graduation," but the group went on to burn a CD and take second at the 2000 Harmony Sweepstakes A Cappella Festival Mid-Atlantic Regional. The Midnight Voices CD can be purchased. Profits are donated to a music scholarship fund at Central Bucks East High School.
Justin directed amateur theater groups, including the Riverside Haunted Woods (where he first began growing the famous curls) pre-AI days and had the lead role in many musicals during high school and college (Pirates of Penzance, Phantom of the Opera, Edwin Drood, etc.). Immediately prior to American Idol, Justin was offered a seat in the prestigious master class program in "The Lion King" on Broadway; he auditioned for American Idol instead and couldn't take the offer from Lion King when he became an AI finalist. Justin was nationally voted runner-up on the debut season (2002) of "American Idol - The Search for a Superstar", in which there had been over 10,000 to audition. Post AI, he was given a standing offer to play the Emcee in "Cabaret" on Broadway (instead, he was required by management to do CD/movie promotion).
Justin has since appeared and/or performed on numerous TV programs (most notably host of TVGuide Network's Idol Chat and Idol Tonight for several years),other live venues and events and has had extensive media coverage on entertainment news programs, news segments, and in magazine and newspaper articles; he has also completed a jazz album and an acoustic EP.
Justin is a strong believer in helping others and is a spokesperson of Support Music Education. In 2006 he received the NAMM 'Music For Life' Award for his support of music education. He has also helped raise funds for Habitat For Humanity, Rockers on Broadway, Broadway's Kitchen Sink, the Children's World Organization, the Foundation for Global Harmony and donated items to a Little Kids Rock auction.
In 2011, Justin made his Broadway debut as "Carlos" in "Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown" followed by "Will" in "American Idiot" on Broadway; "Roger" in "Rent" at Surflight Theatre on Jersey Shore; staged reading as "Priest" in Bill T. Jones', "Superfly the Musical" in New York; "Billy Flynn" in "Chicago" at The Media Theatre of Performing Arts in Philadelphia; "Joseph" in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" at The Muny; "Drake" in Stephen King's and John Mellencamp's "Ghost Brothers of Darkland County" in Atlanta; as "Jake Laurents" in "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" at Bucks County Playhouse; cast as "Paris" in "Romeo and Juliet" with Orlando Bloom on Broadway in 2013; and began as "Fiyero" male lead in "Wicked" on Broadway, February 2014. He continued his Broadway and theater career in 2015 with "Paint Your Wagon" an Encores presentation by New York City Center and "Moonshine: That Hee Haw Musical" at Dallas Theatre Center; producer of Sideshow, Broadway, 2015; played "Trent" in Broadway's In Transit 2016; "Prince Charming" in Once Upon a One More Time on Broadway, May 13, 2023.
Justin is "Lil Sweet", Diet Dr. Pepper mascot.
Justin married hometown sweetheart Reina Capodici September 26, 2009 at a Hudson River estate in Pennsylvania, with vows that included step-daughter, Lola. Son, William Neko Bell Guarini was born April 26, 2011; Asher Orion Guarini was born February 25, 2013.- Actress
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Katharine Hope McPhee Foster is an American singer-songwriter and actress. In May 2006, she was the runner-up on the fifth season of American Idol.
Her self-titled debut album was released on RCA Records on January 30, 2007, and debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, selling 381,000 copies (as of December 2010). The album's first single, "Over It", was a Pop Top 30 hit and was certified gold in 2008. Her second album, Unbroken, was released on Verve Forecast Records on January 5, 2010, and debuted at No. 27 on the "Billboard 200". The album featured the single "Had It All", which peaked at number 22 on the AC chart. It has sold 45,000 copies as of January 2011. Her third album, the holiday-themed Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You, was released on October 12, 2010. The album debuted at number 11 on the Billboard Top Holiday Albums chart, while the single "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" peaked at number 16 on the "Billboard" AC chart. As of January 2011, this album had sold 23,000 copies. McPhee released her fourth album, Hysteria, on September 18, 2015. She released her fifth album, I Fall in Love Too Easily, composed of jazz standards, on November 17, 2017.
McPhee has also established an acting career, co-starring in The House Bunny and Shark Night 3D. She played Karen Cartwright, one of the lead roles on Smash. From 2014 to 2018, she starred in CBS' Scorpion as Paige Dineen.- Actress
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Katie Stevens is a versatile young actress who has quickly established herself as one of Hollywood's most sought-after, vibrant young talents. She leads the cast of Freeform's "The Bold Type," which reveals a glimpse into the outrageous lives and loves of those responsible for the fictional global women's magazine, Scarlet. The show, which premiered summer 2017 to fantastic reviews, is loosely based on Joanna Coles who serves as chief content officer at Hearst Magazines and previously served as editor in chief of Cosmo Magazine.
Katie began performing and singing at age 3. Her passion eventually landed her a spot on the "American Idol" stage. In August 2009, she auditioned for "American Idol" in Boston, Massachusetts and sang "At Last," where all four judges (including guest judge Victoria Beckham) advanced her to Hollywood. At the Boston audition, Judge Kara DioGuardi called her one of the most talented 16-year old singers she had ever seen.
Katie splits her time between Los Angeles and Nashville.- Actress
- Producer
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Kellie Pickler was born in Albemarle, North Carolina to Cynthia Morton and Clyde "Bo" Raymond Pickler, Jr. Cynthia left when Kellie was 2 but was then granted custody for two years. Kellie was returned to her grandparents at age 12. Her father was in and out of jail throughout her childhood and she was raised in Albemarle, North Carolina by her grandparents, who were big influences in her life. She has a half-sister named Courtney and two half-brothers, Eric and Michael; she has never met Michael. Kellie and Eric continued to live with their grandfather after their grandmother died of lung cancer in 2002. At North Stanly High School in New London, North Carolina, from which she graduated in 2004, she was a cheerleader and a beauty queen. In 2005 she tried out for American Idol (2002) and was sent to Hollywood. She sang many famous songs, including "Since U Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson, "A Broken Wing" by Martina McBride, and "Blame it on the Sun" by Stevie Wonder. She was one of Simon's favorites, but was eliminated in the Final 6. Back in North Carolina she was given a key to the city on "Kellie Pickler Day", May 6, 2006. She then headed to Nashville, Tennessee to pursue her dreams. She was signed to 19 Recordings/BNA Records and wrote and sang many chart-toppers, including "Red High Heels", "I Wonder", "Things That Never Cross a Man's Mind", "Don't You Know You're Beautiful", "You Didn't Know How Much I Loved You", and "The Best Days of Your Life".