It seems impossible that 18 years have passed since Kelly Clarkson won the inaugural season of American Idol. But it’s true! The Voice coach and talk show host marked the anniversary on social media on Friday (Sept 4).
“18 years ago today was the finale of the first season of American Idol and it changed my life!” Kelly wrote. “I’m still hustlin 18 years later because I know I am blessed to have the opportunities and I still love my purpose! Find your purpose! Seek out what keeps that fire in you burning.”
Good advice from Kelly, who turned that win into a career that has encompassed Grammy winning records and world-wide tours. She eventually became a regular coach on The Voice, lending her competition show experience to young hopefuls. Now, she’s an Emmy winning host of a popular daytime talk show. Wow. That’s a lot to reflect upon.
18 years ago today was the finale of the first season of American Idol and it changed my life! I’m still hustlin 18 years later because I know I am blessed to have the opportunities and I still love my purpose! Find your purpose! Seek out what keeps that fire in you burning ? ??
— Kelly Clarkson (@kellyclarkson) September 4, 2020
Brian Dunkleman speaks! Kelly responds
The 19 year old singer beat out heartthrob Justin Guarini. Check out Seacrest’s hair! And who is that fella to the Right of Justin?
That’s Brian Dunkleman, who only co-hosted American Idol for one season, alongside Ryan Seacrest. The former host replied to Kelly with a simple “Same.” Brian was probably being sarcastic, because after he left the show, his career went nowhere, while Ryan Seacrest’s shot into the stratosphere. But Kelly ain’t mad. She quotes him and declares “I love you even more after this tweet.” Poor Dunkleman…
I love you even more after this tweet ??? #DunklemanForTheWin https://t.co/csPHjSg6uX
— Kelly Clarkson (@kellyclarkson) September 5, 2020
We see what you did there, American Idol!
American Idol also responded to Kelly’s celebratory tweet, using it as a pitch to encourage hopefuls to participate in the American Idol virtual auditions, going on now. The thing is, Kelly can’t and won’t promote Idol auditions, because she works for the competition, right? Very sneaky, American Idol, very very sneaky!
We're forever grateful that the first-ever American Idol made a wish, took a chance, and lit up our stage. Keep flying high, @kellyclarkson! ???
Are YOU the next breakaway superstar? ? Online auditions are open, so sign up and prove it! https://t.co/fO1Nc6FxSs #TheNextIdol pic.twitter.com/uSWdqjj3zr
— American Idol (@AmericanIdol) September 4, 2020
The gang’s all here
But Kelly will give props to the show that launched her when she can. Last year, she had Justin, and former Idol judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson on The Kelly Clarkson Show for a fun walk down memory lane.
American Idol auditions are STILL open
By the way, American Idol auditions are still happening now. Each day is devoted to a group of states, with Kentucky, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Vermont to come. However the last four days are devoted to open calls for late comers. Click here for more information.
