American Idol: Where Are They Now?

American Idol: Where Are They Now?

Kelly Clarkson

The mom of River and Remy has come a long way since experiencing a moment like this on the inaugural season of American Idol in 2002. 

The New York resident has collected three Grammys and counting (with her latest disc, Chemistry, up for Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2024 Grammys), notched three No. 1 hits, starred on NBC's The Voice as a judge and is now hosting her own award-winning daytime talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Clay Aiken 

The season two runner-up made two big reveals in September 2008 annoucing that the birth of his son Parker (with his close friend, music produer Jaymes Foster) inspired him to come out. 

"I can't raise a kid and teach him how to lie, teach him to hide things," he reasoned on Good Morning America. "And at the same time, I also don't ever want to raise him in an environment where it's not OK for him to be exactly who he is, no matter what."

 Since then, the famous red-head switched from music to politics, even making a run for Congress in 2016. After losing in the election, the singer released a documentary about his journey. 

But he hasn't totally left music in the rearview, announcing his plans to tour with season two champ Ruben Studdard in 2024.