List of American Idol Winners (2002–2025)
Since its debut in 2002, American Idol has remained one of America’s most iconic singing competitions. It has transformed everyday singers into global superstars, helping launch the careers of some of the biggest names in music. From Kelly Clarkson to Carrie Underwood, and the latest champion Jamal Roberts in 2025, each season of American Idol has crowned a deserving winner.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive and up-to-date list of all American Idol winners from Season 1 to Season 23 (2002 to 2025), along with notable highlights from their careers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, this list will give you insight into the show’s musical legacy.
American Idol Winners List (2002–2025)
| Season | Year | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2002 | Kelly Clarkson |
| 2 | 2003 | Ruben Studdard |
| 3 | 2004 | Fantasia Barrino |
| 4 | 2005 | Carrie Underwood |
| 5 | 2006 | Taylor Hicks |
| 6 | 2007 | Jordin Sparks |
| 7 | 2008 | David Cook |
| 8 | 2009 | Kris Allen |
| 9 | 2010 | Lee DeWyze |
| 10 | 2011 | Scotty McCreery |
| 11 | 2012 | Phillip Phillips |
| 12 | 2013 | Candice Glover |
| 13 | 2014 | Caleb Johnson |
| 14 | 2015 | Nick Fradiani |
| 15 | 2016 | Trent Harmon |
| 16 | 2018 | Maddie Poppe |
| 17 | 2019 | Laine Hardy |
| 18 | 2020 | Just Sam |
| 19 | 2021 | Chayce Beckham |
| 20 | 2022 | Noah Thompson |
| 21 | 2023 | Iam Tongi |
| 22 | 2024 | Abi Carter |
| 23 | 2025 | Jamal Roberts |
Notable American Idol Winners and Their Journey
Kelly Clarkson – Season 1 (2002)
The very first American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, became an instant pop sensation. Her debut single “A Moment Like This” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and set the stage for a successful career. Today, she’s a Grammy-winning artist and the host of The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Carrie Underwood – Season 4 (2005)
One of the most successful winners, Carrie Underwood, dominated the country music scene. She has sold over 70 million records worldwide, received multiple Grammy Awards, and is often referred to as the most powerful female voice in country music.
Jordin Sparks – Season 6 (2007)
At just 17 years old, Jordin Sparks became the youngest winner in American Idol history. Her single “No Air” with Chris Brown received international acclaim and a Grammy nomination.
Phillip Phillips – Season 11 (2012)
Phillip Phillips rose to fame with his coronation song “Home,” which became one of the highest-selling American Idol songs of all time. His music blends folk rock and pop, earning him a dedicated fan base.
Iam Tongi – Season 21 (2023)
Iam Tongi became the first Pacific Islander to win American Idol. His emotional performances and unique vocal style won the hearts of fans across the globe. He brought attention to Hawaiian music and culture in mainstream media.
Abi Carter – Season 22 (2024)
Abi Carter stood out in Season 22 as the first platinum ticket recipient to win the title. Her original song “This Isn’t Over” became a viral hit. Abi’s poetic lyrics and soulful voice made her one of the most memorable winners in recent years.
Jamal Roberts – Season 23 (2025)
The latest champion, Jamal Roberts, stunned audiences with his vocal versatility and emotional depth. He quickly built a strong fan base and is expected to make a big splash in the music industry.
The Impact of American Idol on the Music Industry
American Idol has not only produced chart-topping artists but also shaped the modern music industry by discovering raw, untapped talent from across the U.S. Over the past two decades, it has inspired similar formats worldwide, setting a standard for music reality shows.
Many non-winners, like Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert, have also achieved superstardom, proving the platform’s wide influence. The show continues to evolve with fresh talent, updated formats, and a loyal fanbase.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Be the Next American Idol?
With each season, American Idol reinvents itself, proving that the American dream is still alive through music. From humble beginnings to Grammy Awards, each winner’s journey is a testament to passion, talent, and perseverance.
Whether you’re catching up on past seasons or eagerly awaiting the next champion, the list of American Idol winners from 2002 to 2025 is a perfect reflection of musical excellence and American pop culture.
