American Idol

American Idol Season 5 2006 had 7 auditions that were held in late 2005. 175 Auditioners made it to Hollywood. After three elimination rounds 24 contestants were chosen to compete for the grand finale scheduled for May 24th 2006.

Season 4 of American Idol had 7 auditions. This year the top age was raised to 28 allowing a older contestants to audition, and provided a wider range of vocal talent. In the end it came down to Rocker Bo Bice and Country Style Carrie Underwood. In the end Carrie Underwood won America's votes.

American Idol Season 3 had 6 auditions including one from Hawaii. What turned out to be the most memorable American Idol Audition featuring William Hung singing Ricky Martin's "She Bang's" which despite being incredibly horrible went on to become a fan favorite for it's comedic value. The final competitors Diana DeGarmo and Fantasia Barrino both had considerably more talent. However in the end the power of Fantasia's voice and performances gave her the crown of American Idol.

Season 2 of American Idol had 6 auditions across the United States with 32 semi-finalists making the show in Hollywood. This was the first season to feature contreversy first with the contestant Frenchie being removed after topless photos emerged, and Corey Clark removed himself, and later alleged he had relations with the Judge Paula Abdul. This season featured some of the most popular contestants the show has ever seen, in the it came down to Clay Aiken and Reuben Studdard. Reuben Studdard won my a margin of 130,000 votes.

American Idol Season 1. While Many doubted viewers would tune in week after week to listen to unknown singers compete in an elimination style contest, it turned out to be more popular than anyone could have imagined. With the pricky no holds barred judge Simon Cowell saying what everyone was yelling at their TV's at home American Idol became an instant classic. On the last episode it was Justin Guarini against Kelly Clarkson who eventually wen on to become the first American Idol.

While many people say it's the talent that makes American Idol so popular, the host and judges also play a large part. Simon Cowell from the original version in England keeps the show real. He may be a tough critic, but his comments are the one's that get remembered. America loves an underdog and loves second chances, and no one fits the bill more than Paula Abdul, her comforting style is a sharp contrast to Simon's and an essential part of the show. Randy Jackson strikes the moderate role between Simon and Paula . While everyone including Simon makes fun of host Ryan Seacrest he acts as a buffer between the judges and contestants helping put them at ease and lets you know underneath it all the contestants are regular people just like you.