EVERY ‘AMERICAN IDOL’ WINNER, RANKED
You can say this for “American Idol”: 20 years in, it’s still worth arguing about. Should Kris Allen have prevailed over Adam Lambert? Queen would like a word. Carrie Underwood over Bo Bice? We loved the hair, Bo, but sorry, Carrie was the rightful empress.
Lee Dewyze instead of Crystal Bowersox? Our blood pressure spikes just recalling that travesty.
And there are no words for the travesty that was ousting Jennifer Hudson in seventh place during the show’s third season. But the “Idol” spotlight still allowed for the discovery of Hudson’s talent and eventual mega-stardom.
Though the “Idol” hitmaking machine now creaks rather than churns out superstars, the platform is still unparalleled when compared to its singing competition peers.
We’ve ranked the 20 “American Idol” winners based primarily on sheer talent, but with an obvious nod toward their success after the show (new winner Noah Thompson excepted from that criteria).
Please, continue arguing.
20. Lee Dewyze (2010)
Despite his affable personality and gruff coffeehouse croon, Dewyze lacked the undeniable spark and grit of Crystal Bowersox, the Janis Joplin incarnate who outrageously only placed second that season. – Patrick Ryan
19. Chayce Beckham (2021)
The current holder of the “Idol” crown impressed on the show with his passionate rendition of The Beatles’ “Blackbird,” but his gravelly voice often conjured memories of Creed. And no, that’s not a good thing. But Beckham’s career plans reside in country – his coronation song, “23,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard country digital chart – and he just released his EP, “Doin’ It Right,” in April. – Melissa Ruggieri
18. Laine Hardy (2019)
The Louisiana native, who was recently arrested and charged with secretly recording an ex-girlfriend, rose through the “Idol” ranks with his Elvis Presley-style croon and stage persona. But outside the throwback shtick, the huskyvoiced Hardy has struggled to stand out from other past winners who have charted similar country/bluegrass terrain. – Ryan
See IDOL, Page 9B