The winner receives a record deal with a major label, which may be for up to six albums, and secures a management contract with American Idol-affiliated 19 Management (which has the right of first refusal to sign all contestants), as well as various lucrative contracts. All winners prior to season nine reportedly earned at least $1 million in their first year as winner. All the runners-up of the first ten seasons, as well as some of other finalists, have also received record deals with major labels. However, starting in season 11, the runner-up may only be guaranteed a single-only deal. BMG/Sony (seasons 1–9) and UMG (season 10–) had the right of first refusal to sign contestants for three months after the season's finale. Starting in the fourteenth season, the winner was signed with Big Machine Records. Prominent music mogul Clive Davis also produced some of the selected contestants' albums, such as Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken, Fantasia Barrino and Diana DeGarmo. All top 10 (11 in seasons 10 and 12) finalists earn the privilege of going on a tour, where the participants may each earn a six-figure sum.

Which company manages the winners of American Idol?

19 Management

What record label signed the winner of season fourteen of American Idol?

Big Machine Records

How long does the record company have the right of first refusal for contestants on American Idol?

three months

What does the winner of American Idol receive?

a record deal

The winner also receives a management contract with which company?

19 Management

In season 14, the winner was signed to which company?

Big Machine Records


Each season premieres with the audition round, taking place in different cities. The audition episodes typically feature a mix of potential finalists, interesting characters and woefully inadequate contestants. Each successful contestant receives a golden ticket to proceed on to the next round in Hollywood. Based on their performances during the Hollywood round (Las Vegas round for seasons 10 onwards), 24 to 36 contestants are selected by the judges to participate in the semifinals. From the semifinal onwards the contestants perform their songs live, with the judges making their critiques after each performance. The contestants are voted for by the viewing public, and the outcome of the public votes is then revealed in the results show typically on the following night. The results shows feature group performances by the contestants as well as guest performers. The Top-three results show also features the homecoming events for the Top 3 finalists. The season reaches its climax in a two-hour results finale show, where the winner of the season is revealed.

What is given to contestants who make it past the audition round?

a golden ticket

In the audition rounds, what do contestants who win the approval of the judges receive?

a golden ticket

Who votes for the winning contestants starting with the semi-final round?

the public


With the exception of seasons one and two, the contestants in the semifinals onwards perform in front of a studio audience. They perform with a full band in the finals. From season four to season nine, the American Idol band was led by Rickey Minor; from season ten onwards, Ray Chew. Assistance may also be given by vocal coaches and song arrangers, such as Michael Orland and Debra Byrd to contestants behind the scene. Starting with season seven, contestants may perform with a musical instrument from the Hollywood rounds onwards. In the first nine seasons, performances were usually aired live on Tuesday nights, followed by the results shows on Wednesdays in the United States and Canada, but moved to Wednesdays and Thursdays in season ten.

In which season were contestants first allowed to use musical instruments?

seven

Who was in charge of the American Idol band in season eleven?

Ray Chew

In what season did American Idol start airing on Thursday nights?

ten

Who was the leader of the American Idol band in season five?

Rickey Minor

Who led the American Idol band between seasons four and nine?

Rickey Minor

Who led the American Idol band after Rickey Minor's departure?

Ray Chew

What season were contestants allowed use a musical instrument when they sing?

seven


The first season of American Idol debuted as a summer replacement show in June 2002 on the Fox network. It was co-hosted by Ryan Seacrest and Brian Dunkleman.

What network aired the first season of American Idol?

Fox

What year did American Idol first debut?

Who was Ryan Seacrests co-host in the first season of American Idol?

Brian Dunkleman

When did American Idol debut?

June 2002

What network did American Idol debut on?

Fox

Who co-hosted American Idol?

Ryan Seacrest and Brian Dunkleman


In the audition rounds, 121 contestants were selected from around 10,000 who attended the auditions. These were cut to 30 for the semifinal, with ten going on to the finals. One semifinalist, Delano Cagnolatti, was disqualified for lying to evade the show's age limit. One of the early favorites, Tamyra Gray, was eliminated at the top four, the first of several such shock eliminations that were to be repeated in later seasons. Christina Christian was hospitalized before the top six result show due to chest pains and palpitations, and she was eliminated while she was in the hospital. Jim Verraros was the first openly gay contestant on the show; his sexual orientation was revealed in his online journal, however it was removed during the competition after a request from the show producers over concerns that it might be unfairly influencing votes.

How many contestants made it past the first round of auditions?

How many people initially auditioned?

around 10,000

Who was the first known homosexual contestant on American Idol?

Jim Verraros

Which contestant was surprisingly eliminated during the top four episode?

Tamyra Gray

Where was Christina Christian at when she was eliminated from the show?

the hospital

How many contestants were chosen from the 10,000 that auditioned?

Of the 121 chosen, how many became semi-finalists?

Which contestant was disqualified for lying about his age?

Delano Cagnolatti

When was Tamyra Gray eliminated?

top four

Who was eliminated while she was in the hospital due to chest pains?

Christina Christian


The final showdown was between Justin Guarini, one of the early favorites, and Kelly Clarkson. Clarkson was not initially thought of as a contender, but impressed the judges with some good performances in the final rounds, such as her performance of Aretha Franklin's "Natural Woman", and Betty Hutton's "Stuff Like That There", and eventually won the crown on September 4, 2002.

What year did Kelly Clarkson win?

Who was the runner up to Kelly Clarkson?

Justin Guarini

What month did Kelly Clarkson win?

September

Of the final two, which was an early favorite to win?

Justin Guarini

Who won the first season of American Idol?

Kelly Clarkson

When did Clarkson win the crown?

September 4, 2002


In what was to become a tradition, Clarkson performed the coronation song during the finale, and released the song immediately after the season ended. The single, "A Moment Like This", went on to break a 38-year-old record held by The Beatles for the biggest leap to number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Guarini did not release any song immediately after the show and remains the only runner-up not to do so. Both Clarkson and Guarini made a musical film, From Justin to Kelly, which was released in 2003 but was widely panned. Clarkson has since become the most successful Idol contestant internationally, with worldwide album sales of more than 23 million.

What was the fist song released by Kelly Clarkson after winning American Idol?

A Moment Like This

What film did Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini star in after they were on American Idol?

From Justin to Kelly

How many albums has Kelly Clarkson sold around the world?

more than 23 million

What song did Kelly Clarkson perform during the finale?

A Moment Like This

What did Clarkson sing during the finale?

the coronation song

What was the name of the song?

A Moment Like This

Which record did the song break, which was the biggest leap to the top of the Billboard charts?

The Beatles

What was the name of the film that the two finalists made together?

From Justin to Kelly

How many worldwide album sales has Kelly Clarkson had since winning Idol?

more than 23 million


Following the success of season one, the second season was moved up to air in January 2003. The number of episodes increased, as did the show's budget and the charge for commercial spots. Dunkleman left the show, leaving Seacrest as the lone host. Kristin Adams was a correspondent for this season.

What year did season two of American Idol first air?

Who was a correspondent on season two of American Idol?

Kristin Adams

When did season two air?

January 2003

Who was a correspondent for season two?

Kristin Adams


Corey Clark was disqualified during the finals for having an undisclosed police record; however, he later alleged that he and Paula Abdul had an affair while on the show and that this contributed to his expulsion. Clark also claimed that Abdul gave him preferential treatment on the show due to their affair. The allegations were dismissed by Fox after an independent investigation. Two semi-finalists were also disqualified that year – Jaered Andrews for an arrest on an assault charge, and Frenchie Davis for having previously modelled for an adult website.

Which judge did Corey Clark claim to have had an affair with?

Paula Abdul

Which contestant was removed from the competition for having been a model on an adult website?

Frenchie Davis

Which contestant was removed from the competition for not revealing his police record?

Corey Clark

Which contestant had previously been arrested and charged with assault?

Jaered Andrews

Who was disqualified for having a police record?

Corey Clark

Which contestant was removed from the show for modelling for an adult website?

Frenchie Davis

Which contestant was disqualified because of an assault charge?

Jaered Andrews


Ruben Studdard emerged as the winner, beating Clay Aiken by a small margin. Out of a total of 24 million votes, Studdard finished just 134,000 votes ahead of Aiken. This slim margin of victory was controversial due to the large number of calls that failed to get through. In an interview prior to season five, executive producer Nigel Lythgoe indicated that Aiken had led the fan voting from the wildcard week onward until the finale.

Who was the season two winner of American Idol?

Ruben Studdard

How many votes were cast during the final week?

24 million

Who was the runner up on season two of American Idol?

Clay Aiken

How many votes did Ruben Studdard win by?

What was the name of the shows executive producer?

Nigel Lythgoe

Who won season two?

Ruben Studdard

Who was the runner up for season two?

Clay Aiken

How many more votes did Studdard have at the finale?

How many votes were cast for the finale?

24 million

Who did Nigel Lythgoe say was a fan favorite for the majority of the season?

Clay Aiken


Both finalists found success after the show, but Aiken out-performed Studdard's coronation song "Flying Without Wings" with his single release from the show "This Is the Night", as well as in their subsequent album releases. The fourth-place finisher Josh Gracin also enjoyed some success as a country singer.

What is the first song that Ruben Studdard released after winning American Idol?

Flying Without Wings

What contestant came in fourth on season two of American Idol?

Josh Gracin

What song did Clay Aiken first release after losing American Idol?

This Is the Night

What was the name of Studdard's coronation song?

Flying Without Wings

What was Aiken's single release named?

This Is the Night

Which of the final two had more success with his first album?

Aiken

Who finished fourth on season two?

Josh Gracin


Season three premiered on January 19, 2004. One of the most talked-about contestants during the audition process was William Hung whose off-key rendition of Ricky Martin's "She Bangs" received widespread attention. His exposure on Idol landed him a record deal and surprisingly he became the third best-selling singer from that season.

What year did the third season of American Idol first air?

Which contestant was best known for his bad audition of "She Bangs"?

William Hung

Which contestant sold more albums than all except two from season three of American Idol?

William Hung

When did season three premiere?

January 19, 2004

Which contestant sang an off-key "She Bangs"?

William Hung

Which contestant was number three in sales from season three?

William Hung


Much media attention on the season had been focused on the three black singers, Fantasia Barrino, LaToya London, and Jennifer Hudson, dubbed the Three Divas. All three unexpectedly landed on the bottom three on the top seven result show, with Hudson controversially eliminated. Elton John, who was one of the mentors that season, called the results of the votes "incredibly racist". The prolonged stays of John Stevens and Jasmine Trias in the finals, despite negative comments from the judges, had aroused resentment, so much so that John Stevens reportedly received a death threat, which he dismissed as a joke 'blown out of proportion'.

What were the three black female contestants on season three of American Idol commonly referred to as?

the Three Divas

Which contestant was eliminated during the week of the top seven?

Jennifer Hudson

What famous singer made claims of racism after Jennifer Hudson was eliminated from American Idol?

Elton John

Which season three contestant on American Idol was the recipient of reported death threats?

John Stevens

What were Fantasia Barrino, LaToya London and Jennifer Hudson called?

the Three Divas

Which of the three was eliminated?

Jennifer Hudson

Who said that the results were racist?

Elton John

Which contestant reportedly received a death threat on the show?

John Stevens


The performance of "Summertime" by Barrino, later known simply as "Fantasia", at Top 8 was widely praised, and Simon Cowell considered it as his favorite Idol moment in the nine seasons he was on the show. Fantasia and Diana DeGarmo were the last two finalists, and Fantasia was crowned as the winner. Fantasia released as her coronation single "I Believe", a song co-written by season one finalist Tamyra Gray, and DeGarmo released "Dreams". Fantasia went on to gain some successes as a recording artist, while Hudson, who placed seventh, became the only Idol contestant so far to win both an Academy Award and a Grammy.

Who was the runner up on the third season of American Idol?

Diana DeGarmo

What was the name of the first single that Fantasia released after winning American Idol?

I Believe

What was the first song released by Diana DeGarmo after coming in second on American Idol?

Dreams

What song did Fantasia sing on the Top 8 show?

Summertime

Who has said that Barrino's rendition of Summertime has been his top moment of all seasons?

Simon Cowell

Who were the final two contestants?

Fantasia and Diana DeGarmo

Who was declared the season winner?

Fantasia

What was Fantasia's coronation song?

I Believe


The top 12 finalists originally included Mario Vazquez, but he dropped out citing 'personal reasons' and was replaced by Nikko Smith. Later, an employee of Freemantle Media, which produces the show, sued the company for wrongful termination, claiming that he was dismissed after complaining about lewd behavior by Vazquez toward him during the show.

Who got a spot in the top 12 after Mario Vasquez dropped out?

Nikko Smith

Who replaced Vasquez as a finalist?

Nikko Smith

What company produces the show?

Freemantle Media

A former employee states he was fired after complaining about which finalist?

Vazquez


During the top 11 week, due to a mix-up with the contestants' telephone number, voting was repeated on what was normally the result night, with the result reveal postponed until the following night.

During what week was there a problem with voting?

top 11 week

When did the results show happen?

the following night


In May 2005, Carrie Underwood was announced the winner, with Bice the runner-up. Both Underwood and Bice released the coronation song "Inside Your Heaven". Underwood has since sold 65 million records worldwide, and become the most successful Idol contestant in the U.S., selling over 14 million albums copies in the U.S. and has more  Underwood has won seven Grammy Awards, the most Grammys by an "American Idol" alumnus.

What year did Carrie Underwood win American Idol?

How many record has Carrie Underwood sold since winning American Idol?

65 million

What was the first song released by Carrie Underwood after winning American Idol?

Inside Your Heaven

Which American Idol contestant has won the biggest number of Grammy Awards?

Carrie Underwood

When was the winner declared?

May 2005

Who was the winner of this season?

Carrie Underwood

What song did the two finalists release?

Inside Your Heaven

How many records has Underwood sold in America?

14 million


Season five began on January 17, 2006. It remains the highest-rated season in the show's run so far. Two of the more prominent contestants during the Hollywood round were the Brittenum twins who were later disqualified for identity theft.

Which season of American Idol stands out for having the highest ratings?

Season five

Which two contestants were removed from the show for accusations of identity theft?

the Brittenum twins

Which season has been the highest rated of all American Idol seasons?

Season five

When did season five premiere?

January 17, 2006

Which two contestants were kicked off the show for identity theft?

the Brittenum twins


Chris Daughtry's performance of Fuel's "Hemorrhage (In My Hands)" on the show was widely praised and led to an invitation to join the band as Fuel's new lead singer, an invitation he declined. His performance of Live's version of "I Walk the Line" was well received by the judges but later criticized in some quarters for not crediting the arrangement to Live. He was eliminated at the top four in a shocking result.

Which contestant did the band Fuel ask to be their new lead singer?

Chris Daughtry

Which season five contestant caused controversy with their performance of I Walk the Line?

Chris Daughtry

Which contestant was surprisingly eliminated during the week of the top four?

Chris Daughtry

Who performed a Fuel song on this season?

Chris Daughtry

Fuel asked Chris Daughtry to become what?

lead singer

Who was eliminated in the Top 4 show?

Chris Daughtry

Which song performance did he receive both praise and criticism for?

I Walk the Line

Why did he receive criticism for I Walk the Line

not crediting the arrangement to Live


On May 30, 2006, Taylor Hicks was named American Idol, with Katharine McPhee the runner-up. "Do I Make You Proud" was released as Hicks' first single and McPhee's was "My Destiny".

Who was the winner American Idol in 2006?

Taylor Hicks

What was the name of the first song that Taylor Hicks released after winning American Idol?

Do I Make You Proud

What was the first song that Katherine McPhee released after coming in second on American Idol?

My Destiny

Who was the winner for this season?

Taylor Hicks

What was Hick's debut single?

Do I Make You Proud

What was McPhee's first single?

My Destiny


Despite being eliminated earlier in the season, Chris Daughtry (as lead of the band Daughtry) became the most successful recording artist from this season. Other contestants, such as Hicks, McPhee, Bucky Covington, Mandisa, Kellie Pickler, and Elliott Yamin have had varying levels of success.

Which season five contestant has had the most success after the show?

Chris Daughtry

What is the name if the band that has Chris Daughtry as its lead singer?

Daughtry

Who was the most successful artist from this season?

Chris Daughtry

What band does Chris Daughtry sing for?

Daughtry


Season six began on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. The premiere drew a massive audience of 37.3 million viewers, peaking in the last half hour with more than 41 million viewers.

What year did the sixth season of American Idol first air?

How many people watched the season premiere of American Idol in 2007?

37.3 million

When did season six premiere?

January 16, 2007

How many overall viewers did the first show of the season generate?

37.3 million


Teenager Sanjaya Malakar was the season's most talked-about contestant for his unusual hairdo, and for managing to survive elimination for many weeks due in part to the weblog Vote for the Worst and satellite radio personality Howard Stern, who both encouraged fans to vote for him. However, on April 18, Sanjaya was voted off.

Who was the most discussed singer in American Idols sixth season?

Sanjaya Malakar

What celebrity asked his fans to vote for Sanjaya Malakar on American Idol?

Howard Stern

What is the name of the blog that tried to rally votes for Sanjaya Malakar on American Idol?

Vote for the Worst

What date was Sanjaya Malakar eliminated on American Idol?

April 18

What season six American Idol contestant was known for his strange hairstyles?

Sanjaya Malakar

Which contestant was talked about more than any other this season?

Sanjaya Malakar

What was the main reason Sanjaya garnered such attention?

hair

Which weblog helped Sanjaya survive elimination week over and over again?

Vote for the Worst

Which shock jock urged people to vote for Sanjaya?

Howard Stern

When was Sanjaya eliminated?

April 18


This season saw the first Idol Gives Back telethon-inspired event, which raised more than $76 million in corporate and viewer donations. No contestant was eliminated that week, but two (Phil Stacey and Chris Richardson) were eliminated the next. Melinda Doolittle was eliminated in the final three.

What was the name of the charity event on season six of American Idol?

Idol Gives Back

How much money did the Idol Gives Back event raise in 2007?

$76 million

What singer came in third on the sixth season of American Idol?

Melinda Doolittle

What was the charity event that occurred this season?

Idol Gives Back

Which two contestants were eliminated the following week?

Phil Stacey and Chris Richardson

Who was eliminated on the Top 3 show?

Melinda Doolittle


In the May 23 season finale, Jordin Sparks was declared the winner with the runner-up being Blake Lewis. Sparks has had some success as a recording artist post-Idol.

Who was the winner of American Idols sixth season?

Jordin Sparks

Who came in second on season six of American Idol?

Blake Lewis

On what date did American Idol air its season six finale?

May 23

When was the finale aired?

May 23

Which contestant won the season?

Jordin Sparks


Season four premiered on January 18, 2005; this was the first season of the series to be aired in high definition, although the finale of season three was also aired in high definition. The number of those attending the auditions by now had increased to over 100,000 from the 10,000 of the first season. The age limit was raised to 28 in this season, and among those who benefited from this new rule were Constantine Maroulis and Bo Bice, the two rockers of the show.

What year did season four of American Idol first air?

How many contestants auditioned for the fourth season of American Idol?

over 100,000

What was the oldest that you could be to qualify as a contestant on the fourth season of American Idol?

What  was the first full season of American Idol to air in high definition?

Season four

In which season was Bo Bice a contestant on American Idol?

Season four

When did season four premiere?

January 18, 2005

Season four was the first full season to be aired in what?

high definition

How many people auditioned to be on American Idol?

over 100,000

What was the maximum age a contestant could be starting this season?


This season also saw the launch of the American Idol Songwriter contest which allows fans to vote for the "coronation song". Thousands of recordings of original songs were submitted by songwriters, and 20 entries selected for the public vote. The winning song, "This Is My Now", was performed by both finalists during the finale and released by Sparks on May 24, 2007.

In what year did American Idol begin a contest to decide the winners single?

What is the first song released by Jordin Sparks after winning American Idol?

This Is My Now

How was "This is My Now" decided as the first single for the American Idol winner in 2007?

public vote

Which contest started during this season?

American Idol Songwriter contest

Fans could vote for what during this contest?

coronation song

Of the thousands of songs entered, how many were the public able to vote for?

What song won the contest?

This Is My Now

When did Sparks release her version of the song?

May 24, 2007


Season seven premiered on January 15, 2008, for a two-day, four-hour premiere. The media focused on the professional status of the season seven contestants, the so-called 'ringers', many of whom, including Kristy Lee Cook, Brooke White, Michael Johns, and in particular Carly Smithson, had prior recording contracts. Contestant David Hernandez also attracted some attention due to his past employment as a stripper.

What year did season seven of American Idol first air?

Which season seven contestant had worked as a stripper before his time on American Idol?

David Hernandez

Which contestant was talked about most for having a record deal before being a contestant on American Idol?

Carly Smithson

When did season seven premiere?

January 15, 2008

Which contestant drew attention because he was a former stripper?

David Hernandez

Why did many of the contestants draw the attention of the media?

professional status

Which contestant garnered the most attention because of a prior recording contract?

Carly Smithson


For the finals, American Idol debuted a new state-of-the-art set and stage on March 11, 2008, along with a new on-air look. David Cook's performance of "Billie Jean" on top-ten night was lauded by the judges, but provoked controversy when they apparently mistook the Chris Cornell arrangement to be David Cook's own even though the performance was introduced as Cornell's version. Cornell himself said he was 'flattered' and praised David Cook's performance. David Cook was taken to the hospital after the top-nine performance show due to heart palpitations and high blood pressure.

What song did David Cook sing on American Idol during the week of the top ten?

Billie Jean

Which American Idol contestant was hospitalized after singing during the week of the top nine?

David Cook

Who arranged the version of "Billie Jean" that David Cook performed on American Idol?

Chris Cornell

On what date did the American Idol finals begin?

March 11, 2008

When did American Idol showcase a new set and stage?

March 11, 2008

Which arrangement was used for Cook's version of Billie Jean?

Chris Cornell

Who was taken to the hospital after the top nine show?

David Cook


David Archuleta's performance of John Lennon's "Imagine" was considered by many as one of the best of the season. Jennifer Lopez, who was brought in as a judge in season ten, called it a beautiful song-moment that she will never forget. Jason Castro's semi-final performance of "Hallelujah" also received considerable attention, and it propelled Jeff Buckley's version of the song to the top of the Billboard digital song chart. This was the first season in which contestants' recordings were released onto iTunes after their performances, and although sales information was not released so as not to prejudice the contest, leaked information indicated that contestants' songs frequently reached the top of iTunes sales charts.

Which contestant sang "Imagine" on season seven of American Idol?

David Archuleta

In which season of American Idol did Jennifer Lopez become a judge?

season ten

What song did Jason Castro receive praise for singing during the semi-finals on American Idol?

Hallelujah

Whose recording of Hallelujah became successful again after being performed on American Idol?

Jeff Buckley

On what digital platform were contestants performances released to after airing on American Idol?

iTunes

Which David Archuletta cover was thought to be the best of the season by many?

John Lennon's "Imagine"

Who said it Archuletta's rendition is one that she will never forget?

Jennifer Lopez

Which finalist sang "Hallelujah" during the semi-finals?

Jason Castro

Castro's performance sent which singer's version to the top of a Billboard chart?

Jeff Buckley

For the first time, recordings of the contestant's songs could be purchased where?

iTunes


The finalists were Cook and Archuleta. David Cook was announced the winner on May 21, 2008, the first rocker to win the show. Both Cook and Archuleta had some success as recording artists with both selling over a million albums in the U.S.

Who won season seven of American Idol?

David Cook

Who was the first Rock and Roll artist to win American Idol?

David Cook

When was the winner announced?

May 21, 2008

Who was the winner?

David Cook


The American Idol Songwriter contest was also held this season. From ten of the most popular submissions, each of the final two contestants chose a song to perform, although neither of their selections was used as the "coronation song". The winning song, "The Time of My Life", was recorded by David Cook and released on May 22, 2008.

What was the name of the first song released by David Cook after winning American Idol?

The Time of My Life

How was the winning single chose on season seven of American Idol?

The American Idol Songwriter contest

What year did David Cook release the single, "The Time of My Life"?

What was the coronation song?

The Time of My Life

When did Cook release his version of The Time of My Life?

May 22, 2008


Season eight premiered on January 13, 2009. Mike Darnell, the president of alternative programming for Fox, stated that the season would focus more on the contestants' personal life. Much early attention on the show was therefore focused on the widowhood of Danny Gokey.[citation needed]

What year did the eighth season of American Idol first air?

Which contestant from season eight suffered the loss of a spouse?

Danny Gokey

What was Mike Darnells position at Fox in 2009?

president of alternative programming

What month did American Idol begin airing its eighth season?

January

When did season eight premiere?

January 13, 2009

Who was the president of alternative programming at Fox?

Mike Darnell

Which contestant received a lot of attention because of his widowhood?

Danny Gokey


In the first major change to the judging panel, a fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi, was introduced. This was also the first season without executive producer Nigel Lythgoe who left to focus on the international versions of his show So You Think You Can Dance. The Hollywood round was moved to the Kodak Theatre for 2009 and was also extended to two weeks. Idol Gives Back was canceled for this season due to the global recession at the time.

Who was brought in as a new judge during American Idols eighth season?

Kara DioGuardi

How long did the Hollywood round air for in season eight of American Idol?

two weeks

What show did Nigel Lythgoe leave American Idol to produce?

So You Think You Can Dance

What venue hosted the Hollywood round on American Idol for the first time in 2009?

the Kodak Theatre

Why did American Idol choose not to have its Idol Gives Back special in 2009?

the global recession

How many judges were on the panel for this season?

four

Which judge joined the panel?

Kara DioGuardi

Nigel Lythgoe quit the show to focus on what other show?

So You Think You Can Dance

Where was the Hollywood round moved to?

Kodak Theatre

What was canceled for this year of Idol?

Idol Gives Back


There were 13 finalists this season, but two were eliminated in the first result show of the finals. A new feature introduced was the "Judges' Save", and Matt Giraud was saved from elimination at the top seven by the judges when he received the fewest votes. The next week, Lil Rounds and Anoop Desai were eliminated.

How many finalists were there on season eight of American Idol?

Who was the first contestant to benefit from the Judges Save?

Matt Giraud

How many contestants were eliminated during the first week after the judges save?

two

How many contestants were sent home during the first week of finals?

two

Who was sent home the week after the judges saved Matt Giraud?

Lil Rounds and Anoop Desai

How many finalists were on this season?

How many finalists were eliminated during the first results show?

two

Which contestant was saved with the first Judges' Save?

Matt Giraud


The two finalists were Kris Allen and Adam Lambert, both of whom had previously landed in the bottom three at the top five. Allen won the contest in the most controversial voting result since season two. It was claimed, later retracted, that 38 million of the 100 million votes cast on the night came from Allen's home state of Arkansas alone, and that AT&T employees unfairly influenced the votes by giving lessons on power-texting at viewing parties in Arkansas.

Who were the final two contestants on season eight of American Idol?

Kris Allen and Adam Lambert

Who won season eight of American Idol?

Kris Allen

What state is American Idol winner Kris Allen from?

Arkansas

How many votes were cast in the American Idol finale in season eight?

100 million

Who won the season?

Kris Allen

The only prior season to have matching controversy over the winner was?

season two

How many votes were cast for the final two?

100 million

Who was accused of teaching the public how to power text for the winner?

AT&T employees


Both Allen and Lambert released the coronation song, "No Boundaries" which was co-written by DioGuardi. This is the first season in which the winner failed to achieve gold album status, and none from that season achieved platinum album status in the U.S.[citation needed]

What was the name of the song that Kris Allen and Adam Lamber released after American Idol?

No Boundaries

Who helped write the song "No Boundaries"?

DioGuardi

What was the coronation song for this season?

No Boundaries

Who co-wrote the coronation song?

DioGuardi

Unlike every previous winner, the winner of this season failed to achieve what status?

gold album status

How many contestants from this season reached platinum album status?


Season nine premiered on January 12, 2010. The upheaval at the judging panel continued. Ellen DeGeneres joined as a judge to replace Paula Abdul at the start of Hollywood Week.

What year did season nine of American Idol first air?

Who filled the judges spot vacated by Paula Abdul on season nine of American Idol?

Ellen DeGeneres

At what point during season 9 of American Idol did Ellen Degeneres become a judge?

Hollywood Week

When did season nine premiere?

January 12, 2010

Which original judge left prior to the start of the season?

Paula Abdul

Who replaced Abdul?

Ellen DeGeneres

When did Ellen join the judges' panel?

Hollywood Week


Crystal Bowersox, who has Type-I diabetes, fell ill due to diabetic ketoacidosis on the morning of the girls performance night for the top 20 week and was hospitalized. The schedule was rearranged so the boys performed first and she could perform the following night instead; she later revealed that Ken Warwick, the show producer, wanted to disqualify her but she begged to be allowed to stay on the show.

Which contestant had to go to the hospital during the week of the top 20?

Crystal Bowersox

What producer wanted to remove Crystal Bowersox from the competition?

Ken Warwick

Why was Crystal Bowersox in the hospital during the week of the top 20 on American Idol?

diabetic ketoacidosis

Which contestant had Type-I diabetes?

Crystal Bowersox

When was Crystal hospitalized?

top 20 week

What was changed so she could still qualify?

The schedule

Who did Bowersox later reveal wanted her to be disqualified?

Ken Warwick

What role does Warwick have on the show?

producer


Michael Lynche was the lowest vote getter at top nine and was given the Judges' Save. The next week Katie Stevens and Andrew Garcia were eliminated. That week, Adam Lambert was invited back to be a mentor, the first Idol alum to do so. Idol Gives Back returned this season on April 21, 2010, and raised $45 million.

Which contestant was saved by the judges in season nine of American Idol?

Michael Lynche

At what point did the judges use their save on American Idols ninth season?

top nine

Who was the first American Idol contestant to return to the show as a mentor?

Adam Lambert

How much money was brought in by the Idol Gives Back special on season nine of American Idol?

$45 million

Who was saved with the Judges' Save?

Michael Lynche

Which former contestant was a mentor this season?

Adam Lambert


A special tribute to Simon Cowell was presented in the finale for his final season with the show. Many figures from the show's past, including Paula Abdul, made an appearance.

Who had their final season in the show in season nine?

Simon Cowell

Why did Paula Abdul appear on the season nine finale of American Idol?

tribute to Simon Cowell

Who had a special tribute at the finale?

Simon Cowell

Which former Idol star made an appearance for Cowell's tribute?

Paula Abdul


The final two contestants were Lee DeWyze and Bowersox. DeWyze was declared the winner during the May 26 finale. No new song was used as coronation song this year; instead, the two finalists each released a cover song – DeWyze chose U2's "Beautiful Day", and Bowersox chose Patty Griffin's "Up to the Mountain". This is the first season where neither finalist achieved significant album sales.

Who was the winner of American Idols ninth season?

Lee DeWyze

What U2 song was released by Lee DeWyze after winning American Idol?

Beautiful Day

When was the finale held?

May 26

What song did DeWyze cover for his first release?

Beautiful Day

Which song did Bowersox cover for her first release?

Up to the Mountain


Season ten of the series premiered on January 19, 2011. Many changes were introduced this season, from the format to the personnel of the show. Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler joined Randy Jackson as judges following the departures of Simon Cowell (who left to launch the U.S. version of The X Factor), Kara DioGuardi (whose contract was not renewed) and Ellen DeGeneres, while Nigel Lythgoe returned as executive producer. Jimmy Iovine, chairman of the Interscope Geffen A&M label group, the new partner of American Idol, acted as the in-house mentor in place of weekly guest mentors, although in later episodes special guest mentors such as Beyoncé, will.i.am and Lady Gaga were brought in.

What year did season ten of American Idol first air?

In which season of American Idol did Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez become judges?

ten

Who replace weekly mentors as a more permanent mentor on American Idols tenth season?

Jimmy Iovine

What show did Simon Cowell join after leaving American Idol?

The X Factor

Who was the executive producer of American Idols tenth season?

Nigel Lythgoe

When did season ten premiere?

January 19, 2011

Who returned as executive producer this season?

Nigel Lythgoe

Which two new judges joined Randy Jackson on the judges' panel?

Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler

Who was the in-house mentor this season?

Jimmy Iovine


Season ten is the first to include online auditions where contestants could submit a 40-second video audition via Myspace. Karen Rodriguez was one such auditioner and reached the final rounds.

What was the first season of American Idol to feature online auditions?

Season ten

What website hosted auditions for American Idols tenth season?

Myspace

How did Karen Rodriguez audition for American Idol season ten?

Myspace

This is the first season to have what kind of auditions?

online

Where could contestants submit a video audition?

Myspace


One of the more prominent contestants this year was Chris Medina, whose story of caring for his brain-damaged fiancée received widespread coverage. Medina was cut in the Top 40 round. Casey Abrams, who suffers from ulcerative colitis, was hospitalized twice and missed the Top 13 result show. The judges used their one save on Abrams on the Top 11, and as a result this was the first season that 11 finalists went on tour instead of 10. In the following week, Naima Adedapo and Thia Megia were both eliminated the following week.

Which contestant had a fiancé that had suffered brain damage?

Chris Medina

In which round was Chris Medina eliminated n season ten of American Idol?

Top 40

Which season ten contestant was in the hospital instead of at the Top 13 results show?

Casey Abrams

Which contestants did the judges save on season ten of American Idol?

Casey Abrams

Which contestant cared for his brain-damaged fiancee?

Chris Medina

When was Medina eliminated from the competition?

Top 40 round

Which contestant suffered from ulcerative colitis?

Casey Abrams

Which show did Abrams miss because he was in the hospital?

Top 13 result show


Pia Toscano, one of the presumed favorites to advance far in the season, was unexpectedly eliminated on April 7, 2011, finishing in ninth place. Her elimination drew criticisms from some former Idol contestants, as well as actor Tom Hanks.

What contestant came in ninth on season ten of American Idol?

Pia Toscano

What actor was upset when Pia Toscano was eliminated on American Idol?

Tom Hanks

Which fan favorite was unexpectedly eliminated earlier than expected?

Pia Toscano

Which actor criticized Toscano's elimination?

Tom Hanks


The two finalists in 2011 were Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery, both teenage country singers. McCreery won the competition on May 25, being the youngest male winner and the fourth male in a row to win American Idol. McCreery released his first single, "I Love You This Big", as his coronation song, and Alaina released "Like My Mother Does". McCreery's debut album, Clear as Day, became the first debut album by an Idol winner to reach No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 since Ruben Studdard's Soulful in 2003, and he became the youngest male artist to reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

What genre of music did season ten American Idol contestant Lauren Alaina sing?

country

Who was the winner of American Idols tenth season?

Scotty McCreery

What song did Scotty McCreery first release after winning American Idol?

I Love You This Big

What song did Lauren Alaina release after coming in second on American Idol?

Like My Mother Does

What is the name of the successful album that Ruben Studdard released in 2003?

Soulful

When was the season finale of Idol?

May 25

Scotty's first album reached the top Billboard spot, the first time for an Idol winner since when?

Ruben Studdard


Season 11 premiered on January 18, 2012. On February 23, it was announced that one more finalist would join the Top 24 making it the Top 25, and that was Jermaine Jones. However, on March 14, Jones was disqualified in 12th place for concealing arrests and outstanding warrants. Jones denied the accusation that he concealed his arrests.

In what year did American Idol first air its eleventh season?

How many contestants made it to the finals on season 11 of American Idol?

What contestant was removed from the competition for concealing legal troubles?

Jermaine Jones

When did season 11 premiere?

January 18, 2012

Who joined the finalists, making it a Top 25?

Jermaine Jones

When was Jones removed from the show?

March 14

Why was Jones disqualified?

concealing arrests and outstanding warrants


Finalist Phillip Phillips suffered from kidney pain and was taken to the hospital before the Top 13 results show, and later received medical procedure to alleviate a blockage caused by kidney stones. He was reported to have eight surgeries during his Idol run, and had considered quitting the show due to the pain. He underwent surgery to remove the stones and reconstruct his kidney soon after the season had finished.

Which season 11 contestant had to go to the hospital before the Top 13 Results?

Phillip Phillips

Why was Phillip Phillips hospitalized during his time on American Idol?

kidney stones

How many times did Phillip Phillips have surgery when he was on American Idol?

eight

Which contestant thought about leaving the contest because of pain in his kidney?

Phillip Phillips

Which contestant had eight surgeries during his Idol run?

Phillip Phillips

What kind of pain did Phillips endure?

kidney pain


Jessica Sanchez received the fewest number of votes during the Top 7 week, and the judges decided to use their "save" option on her, making her the first female recipient of the save. The following week, unlike previous seasons, Colton Dixon was the only contestant sent home. Sanchez later made the final two, the first season where a recipient of the save reached the finale.

Which contestant was saved by the judges on season 11 of American Idol?

Jessica Sanchez

Who was the first female to be saved by the judges on American Idol?

Jessica Sanchez

Who was eliminated the week after judges saved Jessica Sanchez on American Idol?

Colton Dixon

How far did Jessica Sanchez make it on American Idol?

final two

When did the judges use their save this season?

Top 7

Who was the recipient of the Judges' Save?

Jessica Sanchez

Which contestant was sent home the following week?

Colton Dixon


Phillips became the winner, beating Sanchez. Prior to the announcement of the winner, season five finalist Ace Young proposed marriage to season three runner-up Diana DeGarmo on stage – which she accepted.

What former contestant did Ace Young ask to marry him?

Diana DeGarmo

In what season was Ace Young a finalist on American Idol?

five

In What season did Diana DeGarmo come in second on American Idol?

three

Which season was Ace Young on?

season five

Which season was Diana DeGarmo on?

season three


Phillips released "Home" as his coronation song, while Sanchez released "Change Nothing". Phillips' "Home" has since become the best selling of all coronation songs.

What is the first song that Phillip Phliips released after winning American Idol?

Home

What is the name of the song that Jessica Sanchez released first after American Idol?

Change Nothing

What was Phillip's coronation song?

Home

What song did Sanchez release?

Change Nothing

Which song is the best selling coronation song of all Idol seasons?

Home


Season 12 premiered on January 16, 2013. Judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler left the show after two seasons. This season's judging panel consisted of Randy Jackson, along with Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj. This was the first season since season nine to have four judges on the panel. The pre-season buzz and the early episodes of the show were dominated by the feud between the judges Minaj and Carey after a video of their dispute was leaked to TMZ.

What year did season 12 of American Idol first air?

What was Mariah Careys position on season 12 of American Idol?

Judges

What website showed video of an altercation between Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj?

TMZ

When did season 12 premiere?

January 16, 2013

How many judges did this season have?

four


The top 10 contestants started with five males and five females, however, the males were eliminated consecutively in the first five weeks, with Lazaro Arbos the last male to be eliminated. For the first time in the show's history, the top 5 contestants were all female. It was also the first time that the judges' "save" was not used, the top four contestants were therefore given an extra week to perform again with their votes carried over with no elimination in the first week.

How many girls were in the top 10 on season 12 of American Idol?

five

Who was the last guy to be sent home on season 12 of American Idol?

Lazaro Arbos

How many contestants did this season have?

How many weeks in a row were male contestants eliminated?

five

Who as the last man to be eliminated?

Lazaro Arbos

How many contestants were able to perform for two weeks without any eliminations?

four


23-year-old Candice Glover won the season with Kree Harrison taking the runner-up spot. Glover is the first female to win American Idol since Jordin Sparks. Glover released "I Am Beautiful" as a single while Harrison released "All Cried Out" immediately after the show. Glover sold poorly with her debut album, and this is also the first season that the runner-up was not signed by a music label.

Who was the winner of American Idols twelfth season?

Candice Glover

Which contestant came in second on season 12 of American Idol?

Kree Harrison

What was the first song released by Candice Glover after winning American Idol?

I Am Beautiful

What song did Kree Harrison first release after being on American Idol?

All Cried Out

Who was the runner up?

Kree Harrison

What was Glover's first single?

I Am Beautiful

What was Harrison's first single?

All Cried Out

This is the first season when what did not happen to the first runner up?

not signed by a music label


Towards the end of the season, Randy Jackson, the last remaining of the original judges, announced that he would no longer serve as a judge to pursue other business ventures. Both judges Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj also decided to leave after one season to focus on their music careers.

Which long time judge decided to leave his position at the end of the season?

Randy Jackson

How many seasons was Mariah Carey a judge on American Idol?

one

Who announced this would be his final year as a judge?

Randy Jackson

Who were the other judges to leave after this season?

Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj


The thirteenth season premiered on January 15, 2014, with Ryan Seacrest returning as host. Randy Jackson and Keith Urban returned, though Jackson moved from the judging panel to the role of in-mentor. Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj left the panel after one season. Former judge Jennifer Lopez and former mentor Harry Connick, Jr. joined Urban on the panel. Also, Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick were replaced as executive producers by Per Blankens, Jesse Ignjatovic and Evan Pragger. Bill DeRonde replaced Warwick as a director of the audition episodes, while Louis J. Horvitz replaced Gregg Gelfand as a director of the show.

What year did season 13 of American Idol first air?

Who was the host of American idol in its thirteenth season?

Ryan Seacrest

What new role did Randy Jackson assume during American Idols thirteenth season?

in-mentor

Who directed the thirteenth season of American Idol?

Gregg Gelfand

When did season 13 premiere?

January 15, 2014

Who was the mentor this season?

Randy Jackson

Which former judge came back to the judges' panel this season?

Jennifer Lopez

Which former mentor joined the judges' panel this season?

Harry Connick, Jr.

Per Blankens, Jesse Ignjatovic, and Evan Pragger replaced which two executives?

Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick


This was the first season where the contestants were permitted to perform in the final rounds songs they wrote themselves. In the Top 8, Sam Woolf received the fewest votes, but he was saved from elimination by the judges. The 500th episode of the series was the Top 3 performance night.

Which contestant was saved by the judges after getting the least votes on season 13 of American Idol?

Sam Woolf

At what point in season 13 did American Idol air its 500th show?

Top 3 performance night

Contestants could perform what in the final rounds for the first time ever?

songs they wrote themselves

Who received the Judges' Save this season?

Sam Woolf

When did the judges use their save on Woolf?

Top 8

What episode was the 500th of the entire series?

Top 3 performance night


Caleb Johnson was named the winner of the season, with Jena Irene as the runner-up. Johnson released "As Long as You Love Me" as his coronation single while Irene released "We Are One".

Who won season 13 of American Idol?

Caleb Johnson

Who came in second on season 13 of American Idol?

Jena Irene

What song did Caleb Johnson first release after winning American Idol?

As Long as You Love Me

What song did Jena Irene release after coming in second on American Idol?

We Are One

Who was the runner up this season?

Jena Irene

What was Johnson's coronation song?

As Long as You Love Me

What was Irene's coronation song?

We Are One


The fourteenth season premiered on January 7, 2015. Ryan Seacrest returned to host, while Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr. returned for their respective fourth, third and second seasons as judges. Eighth season runner-up Adam Lambert filled in for Urban during the New York City auditions. Randy Jackson did not return as the in-house mentor for this season.

What year did American Idol first air its fourteenth season?

Who was the host of American Idol in its fourteenth season?

Ryan Seacrest

Which former contestant replaced Keith Urban for auditions in New York City?

Adam Lambert

What was Keith Urbans position on American Idol in its fourteenth season?

judges

Who did not come back as a mentor in season 14?

Randy Jackson

When did season 14 premiere?

January 7, 2015

Who took Urban's spot at the New York auditions?

Adam Lambert


Changes this season include only airing one episode a week during the final ten. Coca Cola ended their longtime sponsorship of the show and Ford Motor Company maintained a reduced role. The winner of the season also received a recording contract with Big Machine Records.

How many episodes did American Idol have each week of the top ten?

one

What drink company ended their relationship with American Idol in season 14?

Coca Cola

What car company had a relationship with American Idol in season 14?

Ford Motor Company

What record label had a contract with the winner of American Idols fourteenth season?

Big Machine Records

Starting this season, how many episodes of Idol aired every week?

one

Who ended their sponsorship this season?

Coca Cola

What other company reduced their sponsorship this season?

Ford Motor Company

This season, the winner won a recording contract with what company?

Big Machine Records


Nick Fradiani won the season, defeating Clark Beckham. By winning, Fradiani became the first winner from the Northeast region. Fradiani released "Beautiful Life" as his coronation single while Beckham released "Champion". Jax, the third place finalist, also released a single called "Forcefield".

Who won American Idols fourteenth season?

Nick Fradiani

Who came in second on American Idol in season 14?

Clark Beckham

Who came in third on American Idol in season 14?

Jax

What was the name of Nick Fradianis victory song?

Beautiful Life

What song did Jax release after coming in third on American Idol?

Forcefield

Who won this season of Idol?

Nick Fradiani

Who was the runner up of Idol?

Clark Beckham

What was Nick's coronation song?

Beautiful Life

What was Beckham's first release?

Champion

Which contestant came in third place?

Jax


Fox announced on May 11, 2015 that the fifteenth season would be the final season of American Idol; as such, the season is expected to have an additional focus on the program's alumni. Ryan Seacrest returns as host, with Harry Connick Jr., Keith Urban, and Jennifer Lopez all returning for their respective third, fourth, and fifth seasons as judges.

What year did Fox announce the cancellation of American Idol?

How many seasons of American Idol have there been?

How many seasons was Jennifer Lopez a judge on American Idol?

What was Keith Urbans role on American Idols fifteenth season?

judges

Who hosted American Idol in its last season?

Ryan Seacrest

When did Fox announce that Season 15 would be the final season?

May 11, 2015

Who is returning as host?

Ryan Seacrest


Since the show's inception in 2002, ten of the fourteen Idol winners, including its first five, have come from the Southern United States. A large number of other notable finalists during the series' run have also hailed from the American South, including Clay Aiken, Kellie Pickler, and Chris Daughtry, who are all from North Carolina. In 2012, an analysis of the 131 contestants who have appeared in the finals of all seasons of the show up to that point found that 48% have some connection to the Southern United States.

As of 2012, how many finalists did American Idol have?

When did American Idol begin?

What region of the United States were American Idols first five winners from?

Southern

What state is American Idol contestant Clay Aiken from?

North Carolina

What state is American Idol contestant Chris Daughtry from?

North Carolina

How many Idol winners have come from the southern part of America?

ten

In addition to Clay Aiken and Kellie Pickler, which other Idol is from North Carolina?

Chris Daughtry


The show itself is popular in the Southern United States, with households in the Southeastern United States 10% more likely to watch American Idol during the eighth season in 2009, and those in the East Central region, such as Kentucky, were 16 percent more likely to tune into the series. Data from Nielsen SoundScan, a music-sales tracking service, showed that of the 47 million CDs sold by Idol contestants through January 2010, 85 percent were by contestants with ties to the American South.

How many CDs from American Idol contestants had been sold at the beginning of 2010?

47 million

In the same study, how much more likely was someone from Kentucky to tune into the show?

16 percent

How many CDS were sold by Idol contestants up to 2010?

47 million

Of the CDs sold, how many were by the contestants with southern ties?

85 percent


Theories given for the success of Southerners on Idol have been: more versatility with musical genres, as the Southern U.S. is home to several music genre scenes; not having as many opportunities to break into the pop music business; text-voting due to the South having the highest percentage of cell-phone only households; and the strong heritage of music and singing, which is notable in the Bible Belt, where it is in church that many people get their start in public singing. Others also suggest that the Southern character of these contestants appeal to the South, as well as local pride. According to season five winner Taylor Hicks, who is from the state of Alabama, "People in the South have a lot of pride ... So, they're adamant about supporting the contestants who do well from their state or region."

Who won season five of American Idol?

Taylor Hicks

What state is Taylor Hicks from?

Alabama

Where do people in the Southern United States often begin singing?

church

Where do a lot of people get their start in singing in the south?

church

Where is Taylor Hicks from?

Alabama


For five consecutive seasons, starting in season seven, the title was given to a white male who plays the guitar – a trend that Idol pundits call the "White guy with guitar" or "WGWG" factor. Just hours before the season eleven finale, where Phillip Phillips was named the winner, Richard Rushfield, author of the book American Idol: The Untold Story, said, "You have this alliance between young girls and grandmas and they see it, not necessarily as a contest to create a pop star competing on the contemporary radio, but as .... who's the nicest guy in a popularity contest," he says, "And that has led to this dynasty of four, and possibly now five, consecutive, affable, very nice, good-looking white boys."

What does the acronym WGWG stand for?

White guy with guitar

Who won season eleven of American Idol?

Phillip Phillips

What is the name of the book written by Richard Rushfield about American Idol?

American Idol: The Untold Story

How many seasons in a row were won by caucasian guitar playing males?

five

What instrument did the winners for five seasons in a row play?

guitar

What is the WGWG factor?

White guy with guitar

Who wrote American Idol: The Untold Story?

Richard Rushfield

Who was named the winner of Season 11?

Phillip Phillips


The show had been criticized in earlier seasons over the onerous contract contestants had to sign that gave excessive control to 19 Entertainment over their future career, and handed a large part of their future earnings to the management.

What company are contestants required to sign a contract with on American Idol?

19 Entertainment


Voting results have been a consistent source of controversy. The mechanism of voting had also aroused considerable criticisms, most notably in season two when Ruben Studdard beat Clay Aiken in a close vote, and in season eight, when the massive increase in text votes (100 million more text votes than season 7) fueled the texting controversy. Concerns about power voting have been expressed from the very first season. Since 2004, votes also have been affected to a limited degree by online communities such as DialIdol, Vote for the Worst (closed in 2013), and Vote for the Girls (started 2010).

Who won season two of American Idol?

Ruben Studdard

Who came in second on season two of American Idol?

Clay Aiken

What year did Vote for the Worst cease operations?

How many more text votes were there in season eight of American Idol over season seven?

100 million

Which season had the biggest voting controversy?

season two

Which season had a voting controversy because of a huge increase in text votes?

season eight

Which voting concern has been present since the first season?

power voting

When did Vote for the Girls start?

When did Vote for the Worst close?


Idol Gives Back is a special charity event started in season six featuring performances by celebrities and various fund-raising initiatives. This event was also held in seasons seven and nine and has raised nearly $185 million in total.

What is the name of the special that raises money for charities on American Idol?

Idol Gives Back

How much money has American Idol raised for charity with its Idol Gives Back specials?

$185 million

What is the name of the charity that Idol has?

Idol Gives Back

When was the first Idol Gives Back?

season six


American Idol premiered in June 2002 and became the surprise summer hit show of 2002. The first show drew 9.9 million viewers, giving Fox the best viewing figure for the 8.30 pm spot in over a year. The audience steadily grew, and by finale night, the audience had averaged 23 million, with more than 40 million watching some part of that show. That episode was placed third amongst all age groups, but more importantly it led in the 18–49 demographic, the age group most valued by advertisers.

What year did American Idol being to air on television?

How many people watched the first episode of American Idol?

9.9 million

How many people on average watched the American Idol finale in its first season?

23 million

What season of the year did American Idol first air on television?

summer

When did American Idol premiere?

June 2002

How many people watched the first episode of American Idol?

9.9 million

What was the average for viewership by finale night?

23 million


The growth continued into the next season, starting with a season premiere of 26.5 million. The season attracted an average of 21.7 million viewers, and was placed second overall amongst the 18–49 age group. The finale night when Ruben Studdard won over Clay Aiken was also the highest-rated ever American Idol episode at 38.1 million for the final hour. By season three, the show had become the top show in the 18–49 demographic a position it has held for all subsequent years up to and including season ten, and its competition stages ranked first in the nationwide overall ratings. By season four, American Idol had become the most watched series amongst all viewers on American TV for the first time, with an average viewership of 26.8 million. The show reached its peak in season five with numbers averaging 30.6 million per episode, and season five remains the highest-rated season of the series.

How many people watched the first episode of American Idols second season?

26.5 million

How many people on average tuned in to watch American Idol in its second season?

21.7 million

What contestant won the second season of American Idol?

Ruben Studdard

During what season did American Idol become the highest rated show across all demographics?

season four

Which season of American Idol was watched by the most people?

season five

How many people watched the second season premiere of American Idol?

26.5 million

How many people watched on average for season two?

21.7 million

By what season was American Idol the most watched show on TV?

four


Season six premiered with the series' highest-rated debut episode and a few of its succeeding episodes rank among the most watched episodes of American Idol. During this time, many television executives begun to regard the show as a programming force unlike any seen before, as its consistent dominance of up to two hours two or three nights a week exceeded the 30- or 60-minute reach of previous hits such as NBC's The Cosby Show. The show was dubbed "the Death Star", and competing networks often rearranged their schedules in order to minimize losses. However, season six also showed a steady decline in viewership over the course of the season. The season finale saw a drop in ratings of 16% from the previous year. Season six was the first season wherein the average results show rated higher than the competition stages (unlike in the previous seasons), and became the second highest-rated of the series after the preceding season.

Which season premier of American Idol was the most watched?

Season six

During which season to American Idols rating begin to fall?

Season six

What did other television networks refer to American Idol as because of its ratings?

the Death Star

Which television network originally aired The Cosby Show?

NBC

Which season premiere was the most watched of all seasons?

Season six

What was the show called by other networks?

the Death Star

Season six saw what for the first time in viewership?

decline

Season six was the first season where what had more viewers?

results show


The loss of viewers continued into season seven. The premiere was down 11% among total viewers, and the results show in which Kristy Lee Cook was eliminated delivered its lowest-rated Wednesday show among the 18–34 demo since the first season in 2002. However, the ratings rebounded for the season seven finale with the excitement over the battle of the Davids, and improved over season six as the series' third most watched finale. The strong finish of season seven also helped Fox become the most watched TV network in the country for the first time since its inception, a first ever in American television history for a non-Big Three major broadcast network. Overall ratings for the season were down 10% from season six, which is in line with the fall in viewership across all networks due in part to the 2007–2008 Writers Guild of America strike.

During which season of American Idol did Fox beat the other networks in ratings for the first time?

season seven

Why were television ratings down across the board during American Idols seventh season?

Writers Guild of America strike

On what season was Kristy Lee Cook a contestant on American Idol?

season seven

Who was eliminated during the lowest rated show since season one?

Kristy Lee Cook

What was the series' third most watched finale?

season seven

Because of the rebound in viewers, Fox became what for the first time?

the most watched TV network

What happened in 2007-2008 that had a drop in viewers for all networks?

Writers Guild of America strike


The declining trend however continued into season eight, as total viewers numbers fell by 5–10% for early episodes compared to season seven, and by 9% for the finale. In season nine, Idol's six-year extended streak of perfection in the ratings was broken, when NBC's coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics on February 17 beat Idol in the same time slot with 30.1 million viewers over Idol's 18.4 million. Nevertheless, American Idol overall finished its ninth season as the most watched TV series for the sixth year running, breaking the previous record of five consecutive seasons achieved by CBS' All in the Family and NBC's The Cosby Show.

Which television network aired the Winter Olympics in 2010?

NBC

Which television network originally aired All in the Family?

CBS

In what year did NBC beat American Idol in the ratings for the first time?

What finally beat Idol in the ratings during season nine?

2010 Winter Olympics

How many people watched the 2010 Winter Olympics on February 17 as compared to the 18.4 million who tuned into Idol?

30.1 million

At the end of season nine, American Idol remained on top as the most watched show for how many years in a row?

six


In season ten, the total viewer numbers for the first week of shows fell 12–13%, and by up to 23% in the 18–49 demo compared to season nine. Later episodes, however, retained viewers better, and the season ended on a high with a significant increase in viewership for the finale – up 12% for the adults 18–49 demo and a 21% increase in total viewers from the season nine finale. While the overall viewer number has increased this season, its viewer demographics have continued to age year on year – the median age this season was 47.2 compared to a median age of 32.1 in its first season. By the time of the 2010–11 television season, Fox was in its seventh consecutive season of victory overall in the 18–49 demographic ratings in the United States.

What was the average age of American Idols viewers in its first season?

What was the average age of American Idols viewers in its tenth season?

What is the median age of viewers this season?

What was the median age for viewers for season one?


Season eleven, however, suffered a steep drop in ratings, a drop attributed by some to the arrival of new shows such as The Voice and The X-Factor. The ratings for the first two episodes of season eleven fell 16–21% in overall viewer numbers and 24–27% in the 18/49 demo, while the season finale fell 27% in total viewer number and 30% in the 18-49 demo. The average viewership for the season fell below 20 million viewers the first time since 2003, a drop of 23% in total viewers and 30% in the 18/49 demo. For the first time in eight years, American Idol lost the leading position in both the total viewers number and the 18/49 demo, coming in second to NBC Sunday Night Football, although the strengths of Idol in its second year in the Wednesday-Thursday primetime slots helped Fox achieve the longest period of 18-49 demographic victory in the Nielsen ratings, standing at 8 straight years from 2004 to 2012.

For how many years was American Idol the top rated show on television?

eight

What program saw more viewers than American Idol this season?

Sunday Night Football

How long did Fox reign in the 18-49 demographics in the Nielsen ratings?

eight years


The loss of viewers continued into season 12, which saw the show hitting a number of series low in the 18-49 demo. The finale had 7.2 million fewer viewers than the previous season, and saw a drop of 44% in the 18-49 demo. The season viewers averaged at 13.3 million, a drop of 24% from the previous season. The thirteenth season suffered a huge decline in the 18–49 demographic, a drop of 28% from the twelfth season, and American Idol lost its Top 10 position in the Nielsen ratings by the end of the 2013–14 television season for the first time since its entry to the rankings in 2003 as a result, although the entire series to date had not yet been dropped from the Nielsen Top 30 rankings since its inception in 2002.

How many people on average watched season 12 of American Idol?

13.3 million

During which season did American Idol fall out of the top ten shows in ratings?

When did American Idol first air on television?

The season finale for season 12 had how many fewer viewers than season 11?

7.2 million

How many viewers watched on average this season?

13.3 million


The continuing decline influenced further changes for season 14, including the loss of Coca-Cola as the show's major sponsor, and a decision to only broadcast one, two-hour show per week during the top 12 rounds (with results from the previous week integrated into the performance show, rather than having a separate results show). On May 11, 2015, prior to the fourteenth season finale, Fox announced that the fifteenth season of American Idol would be its last. Despite these changes, the show's ratings would decline more sharply. The fourteenth season finale was the lowest-rated finale ever, with an average of only 8.03 million viewers watching the finale.

What drink company ended its relationship with American Idol during season 14?

Coca-Cola

How many people watched American Idols finale in season 14?

8.03 million

After what season will American Idol be cancelled?

When did Fox announce the following season would be Idol's last?

May 11, 2015

How many people watched the season 14 finale?

8.03 million


The enormous success of the show and the revenue it generated was transformative for Fox Broadcasting Company. American Idol and fellow competing shows Survivor and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire were altogether credited for expanding reality television programming in the United States in the 1990s and 2000s, and Idol became the most watched non-scripted primetime television series for almost a decade, from 2003 to 2012, breaking records on U.S. television (dominated by drama shows and sitcoms in the preceding decades).

For how many years was American Idol the highest rated reality show on television?


The show pushed Fox to become the number one U.S. TV network amongst adults 18–49, the key demographic coveted by advertisers, for an unprecedented eight consecutive years by 2012. Its success also helped lift the ratings of other shows that were scheduled around it such as House and Bones, and Idol, for years, had become Fox's strongest platform primetime television program for promoting eventual hit shows of the 2010s (of the same network) such as Glee and New Girl. The show, its creator Simon Fuller claimed, "saved Fox".

For how many years was Fox the highest rated network with young adults because of American Idol?

What television network originally aired the show Glee?

Fox

What television network originally aired the show House?

Fox

Who created American Idol?

Simon Fuller


The show's massive success in the mid-2000s and early 2010s spawned a number of imitating singing-competition shows, such as Rock Star, Nashville Star, The Voice, Rising Star, The Sing-Off, and The X Factor. Its format also served as a blueprint for non-singing TV shows such as Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance, most of which contribute to the current highly competitive reality TV landscape on American television.

What dancing show featuring celebrities has been helped by American Idol?

Dancing with the Stars

What is another singing show similar to American Idol?

The Voice


As one of the most successful shows on U.S. television history, American Idol has a strong impact not just on television, but also in the wider world of entertainment. It helped create a number of highly successful recording artists, such as Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry and Carrie Underwood, as well as others of varying notability.

What show helped launched the career of Kelly Clarkson?

American Idol

What show helped launched the career of Carrie Underwood?

American Idol

What show helped launched the career of Daughtry?

American Idol


Various American Idol alumni had success on various record charts around the world; in the U.S. they had achieved 345 number ones on the Billboard charts in its first ten years. According to Fred Bronson, author of books on the Billboard charts, no other entity has ever created as many hit-making artists and best-selling albums and singles. In 2007, American Idol alums accounted for 2.1% of all music sales. Its alumni have a massive impact on radio; in 2007, American Idol had become "a dominant force in radio" according to the president of the research company Mediabase which monitors radio stations Rich Meyer. By 2010, four winners each had more than a million radio spins, with Kelly Clarkson leading the field with over four million spins.

How many number one Billboard singles were released by American Idol contestants in the shows first decade?

Who is the president of Mediabase?

Rich Meyer

Who was the most successful American Idol winner on radio as of 2010?

Kelly Clarkson

How many number ones have Idol singers achieved on Billboard charts in just the first ten years?

Who authored books on Billboard charts?

Fred Bronson

How many contestants had at least one million radio spins by 2010?

four

How many radio spins did Kelly Clarkson have by 2010?

over four million


As of 2013, the American Idol alumni in their post-Idol careers have amassed over 59 million albums and 120 million singles and digital track downloads in the United States alone.

How many albums have been sold by American Idol contestants up until 2013?

59 million

How many single have been sold by American Idol contestants up until 2013?

120 million

How many albums have Idol contestants created as of 2013?

59 million

How many singles and digital downloads have Idol contestants created as of 2013?

120 million


The impact of American Idol is also strongly felt in musical theatre, where many of Idol alumni have forged successful careers. The striking effect of former American Idol contestants on Broadway has been noted and commented on. The casting of a popular Idol contestant can lead to significantly increased ticket sales. Other alumni have gone on to work in television and films, the most notable being Jennifer Hudson who, on the recommendation of the Idol vocal coach Debra Byrd, won a role in Dreamgirls and subsequently received an Academy Award for her performance.

Which American Idol contestant won an Oscar for Dreamgirls?

Jennifer Hudson

What job does Debra Byrd do on American Idol?

vocal coach

In what area of the entertainment industry have some Idol contestants found success?

musical theatre

Which Idol won an Academy Award?

Jennifer Hudson

What film did Jennifer Hudson win an Academy Award for?

Dreamgirls

Who recommended the role for Hudon?

Debra Byrd


Early reviews were mixed in their assessment. Ken Tucker of Entertainment Weekly considered that "As TV, American Idol is crazily entertaining; as music, it's dust-mote inconsequential". Others, however, thought that "the most striking aspect of the series was the genuine talent it revealed". It was also described as a "sadistic musical bake-off", and "a romp in humiliation". Other aspects of the show have attracted criticisms. The product placement in the show in particular was noted, and some critics were harsh about what they perceived as its blatant commercial calculations – Karla Peterson of The San Diego Union-Tribune charged that American Idol is "a conniving multimedia monster" that has "absorbed the sin of our debauched culture and spit them out in a lump of reconstituted evil". The decision to send the season one winner to sing the national anthem at the Lincoln Memorial on the first anniversary of the September 11 attacks in 2002 was also poorly received by many. Lisa de Moraes of The Washington Post noted sarcastically that "The terrorists have won" and, with a sideswipe at the show's commercialism and voting process, that the decision as to who "gets to turn this important site into just another cog in the 'Great American Idol Marketing Mandala' is in the hands of the millions of girls who have made American Idol a hit. Them and a handful of phone-redialer geeks who have been clocking up to 10,000 calls each week for their contestant of choice (but who, according to Fox, are in absolutely no way skewing the outcome)."

What publication does Ken Tucker work for?

Entertainment Weekly

What did American Idols first winner sing at the Lincoln Memorial in 2002?

the national anthem

Which journalist felt Idol produced entertaining TV more than entertaining music?

Ken Tucker

Which publication did Tucker work for?

Entertainment Weekly

Who called American Idol a conniving multimedia monster?

Karla Peterson

Where did the season one winner sing the national anthem that received huge criticism?

Lincoln Memorial


Some of the later writers about the show were more positive, Michael Slezak, again of Entertainment Weekly, thought that "for all its bloated, synthetic, product-shilling, money-making trappings, Idol provides a once-a-year chance for the average American to combat the evils of today's music business." Singer Sheryl Crow, who was later to act as a mentor on the show, however took the view that the show "undermines art in every way and promotes commercialism". Pop music critic Ann Powers nevertheless suggested that Idol has "reshaped the American songbook", "led us toward a new way of viewing ourselves in relationship to mainstream popular culture", and connects "the classic Hollywood dream to the multicentered popular culture of the future." Others focused on the personalities in the show; Ramin Setoodeh of Newsweek accused judge Simon Cowell's cruel critiques in the show of helping to establish in the wider world a culture of meanness, that "Simon Cowell has dragged the rest of us in the mud with him." Some such as singer John Mayer disparaged the contestants, suggesting that those who appeared on Idol are not real artists with self-respect.

What publication does Michael Slezak write for?

Entertainment Weekly

Who was accused of being mean and cruel on American Idol?

Simon Cowell

What singer had bad things to say about contestants on American Idol?

John Mayer

What magazine does Ramin Wetoodeh write for?

Newsweek

Sheryl Crow felt the show undermined art and promoted what?

commercialism

Who said that American Idol has reshaped the American songbook?

Ann Powers

Who was accused of helping meanness thrive?

Simon Cowell

Which singer said the contestants are not real artists with self respect?

John Mayer


Some in the entertainment industry were critical of the star-making aspect of the show. Usher, a mentor on the show, bemoaning the loss of the "true art form of music", thought that shows like American Idol made it seem "so easy that everyone can do it, and that it can happen overnight", and that "television is a lie". Musician Michael Feinstein, while acknowledging that the show had uncovered promising performers, said that American Idol "isn't really about music. It's about all the bad aspects of the music business – the arrogance of commerce, this sense of 'I know what will make this person a star; artists themselves don't know.' " That American Idol is seen to be a fast track to success for its contestants has been a cause of resentment for some in the industry. LeAnn Rimes, commenting on Carrie Underwood winning Best Female Artist in Country Music Awards over Faith Hill in 2006, said that "Carrie has not paid her dues long enough to fully deserve that award". It is a common theme that has been echoed by many others. Elton John, who had appeared as a mentor in the show but turned down an offer to be a judge on American Idol, commenting on talent shows in general, said that "there have been some good acts but the only way to sustain a career is to pay your dues in small clubs".

What famous singer declined an offer to be a judge on American Idol after having been a mentor?

Elton John

What year did Carrie Underwood win a Country Music Award for Best Female Artist?

What singer criticized Carrie Underwood for winning a Country Music Award?

LeAnn Rimes

Who felt that American Idol helped the true art form of music get lost?

Usher

Who won the Best Female Artist in Country Music Awards in 2006?

Carrie Underwood

Who did Carrie beat out for the award?

Faith Hill

Who said that Carrie had not paid her dues to win that award?

LeAnn Rimes

Who was a mentor but later turned down the opportunity to judge Idol?

Elton John


The success of the show's alumni however has led to a more positive assessment of the show, and the show was described as having "proven it has a valid way to pick talent and a proven way to sell records". While the industry is divided on the show success, its impact is felt particularly strongly in the country music format. According to a CMT exec, reflecting on the success of Idol alumni in the country genre, "if you want to try and get famous fast by going to a cattle call audition on TV, Idol reasonably remains the first choice for anyone," and that country music and Idol "go together well".

Which music genre has had the most success from American Idol?

country

Which genre has felt the impact of Idol the most?

country music


American Idol was nominated for the Emmy's Outstanding Reality Competition Program for nine years but never won. Director Bruce Gower won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing For A Variety, Music Or Comedy Series in 2009, and the show won a Creative Arts Emmys each in 2007 and 2008, three in 2009, and two in 2011, as well as a Governor's Award in 2007 for its Idol Gives Back edition. It won the People's Choice Award, which honors the popular culture of the previous year as voted by the public, for favorite competition/reality show in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2011 and 2012. It won the first Critics' Choice Television Award in 2011 for Best Reality Competition.

How many nominations has American Idol received for Outstanding Reality Competition Program?

What director win an Emmy Award for his work on American Idol?

Bruce Gower

How many total Emmy Awards has American Idol won?

What American Idol special received a Governors Award in 2007?

Idol Gives Back

How many times was American Idol nominated for an Emmy?

nine

What award did American Idol win for its Idol Gives Back charity work?

Governor's Award in 2007


The dominance of American Idol in the ratings had made it the most profitable show in U.S. TV for many years. The show was estimated to generate $900 million for the year 2004 through sales of TV ads, albums, merchandise and concert tickets. By season seven, the show was estimated to earn around $900 million from its ad revenue alone, not including ancillary sponsorship deals and other income. One estimate puts the total TV revenue for the first eight seasons of American at $6.4 billion. Sponsors that bought fully integrated packages can expect a variety of promotions of their products on the show, such as product placement, adverts and product promotion integrated into the show, and various promotional opportunities. Other off-air promotional partners pay for the rights to feature "Idol" branding on their packaging, products and marketing programs. American Idol also partnered with Disney in its theme park attraction The American Idol Experience.

How much money did American Idol make in 2004?

$900 million

How much money did American Idol generate from its first eight seasons?

$6.4 billion

What is the name of the American Idol theme attraction with Disney?

The American Idol Experience

How much money did American Idol generate from ads in its seventh season?

$900 million

Who did Idol partner with to create The American Idol Experience?

Disney


American Idol became the most expensive series on broadcast networks for advertisers starting season four, and by the next season, it had broken the record in advertising rate for a regularly scheduled prime-time network series, selling over $700,000 for a 30-seconds slot, and reaching up to $1.3 million for the finale. Its ad prices reached a peak in season seven at $737,000. Estimated revenue more than doubled from $404 million in season three to $870 million in season six. While that declined from season eight onwards, it still earned significantly more than its nearest competitor, with advertising revenue topping $800 million annually the next few seasons. However, the sharp drop in ratings in season eleven also resulted in a sharp drop in advertising rate for season twelve, and the show lost its leading position as the costliest show for advertisers. By 2014, ad revenue from had fallen to $427 million where a 30-second spot went for less than $300,000.

In which season did American Idol become the costliest show for advertising on television?

season four

How much did advertisers spend for a 30 second ad spot on the American Idol season four finale?

$1.3 million

How much did advertisers spend for a 30 second ad spot during American Idol in 2014?

less than $300,000

How much did advertisers spend for a 30 second ad spot during American Idol in its seventh season?

By what season was Idol the  highest advertising cost of all shows?

four

How much did Idol earn in ad revenue alone for season 8?

800 million


Ford Motor Company and Coca-Cola were two of the first sponsors of American Idol in its first season. The sponsorship deal cost around $10 million in season one, rising to $35 million by season 7, and between $50 to $60 million in season 10. The third major sponsor AT&T Wireless joined in the second season but ended after season 12, and Coca-Cola officially ended its sponsorship after season 13 amidst the declining ratings of Idol in the mid-2010s. iTunes sponsored the show since season seven.

In which season did Coca-Cola become a sponsor of American Idol?

season one

In which season did Ford Motor Company become a sponsor of American Idol?

season one

Which mobile carrier became a sponsor of American Idol in its second season?

AT&T Wireless

When did Coca-Cola stop being a sponsor of American Idol?

after season 13

In which season did iTunes begin a partnership with American Idol?

seven

How much did it cost each company for the first season?

10 million

How much did it cost each company in season 7?

35 million

Who was the third largest sponsor?

AT&T


American Idol prominent display of its sponsors' logo and products had been noted since the early seasons. By season six, Idol showed 4,349 product placements according to Nielsen Media Research. The branded entertainment integration proved beneficial to its advertisers – promotion of AT&T text-messaging as a means to vote successfully introduced the technology into the wider culture, and Coca-Cola has seen its equity increased during the show.

What service did AT&T promote on American Idol as a way of voting?

text-messaging

How many product placements had Idol shown by season six?


Coca-Cola's archrival PepsiCo declined to sponsor American Idol at the show's start. What the Los Angeles Times later called "missing one of the biggest marketing opportunities in a generation" contributed to Pepsi losing market share, by 2010 falling to third place from second in the United States. PepsiCo sponsored the American version of Cowell's The X Factor in hopes of not repeating its Idol mistake until its cancellation.

Which major drink manufacturer decided at the beginning of American Idol not to be a sponsor?

PepsiCo

What show did PepsiCo begin sponsoring in hopes of not missing another opportunity like American Idol?

The X Factor

Which soda company did not want to sponsor American Idol?

PepsiCo

In hopes of not repeating another mistake, which show did PepsiCo sponsor?

The X Factor

PepsiCo fell to what place by 2010, which is in part credited with refusing to sponsor American Idol?

third


The top ten (eleven in season ten) toured at the end of every season. In the season twelve tour a semi-finalist who won a sing-off was also added to the tour. Kellogg's Pop-Tarts was the sponsor for the first seven seasons, and Guitar Hero was added for the season seven tour. M&M's Pretzel Chocolate Candies was a sponsor of the season nine tour. The season five tour was the most successful tour with gross of over $35 million.

Which season of American Idol had the highest profit on its tour?

season five

What company was a sponsor of the American Idol tour in its ninth season?

M&M's Pretzel Chocolate Candies

Who was added to the tour in season 12?

a semi-finalist who won a sing-off

Who sponsored the first seven tours?

Kellogg's Pop-Tarts

Who sponsored the ninth tour?

M&M's Pretzel Chocolate Candies

Which was the most successful tour?

season five


American Idol has traditionally released studio recordings of contestants' performances as well as the winner's coronation single for sale. For the first five seasons, the recordings were released as a compilation album at the end of the season. All five of these albums reached the top ten in Billboard 200 which made then American Idol the most successful soundtrack franchise of any motion picture or television program. Starting late in season five, individual performances were released during the season as digital downloads, initially from the American Idol official website only. In season seven the live performances and studio recordings were made available during the season from iTunes when it joined as a sponsor. In Season ten the weekly studio recordings were also released as compilation digital album straight after performance night.

When did iTunes become a sponsor on American Idol?

season seven

For how many seasons did American Idol put out a compilation of hits at seasons end?

five

What company has released studio recordings from American Idol since season seven?

iTunes

Idol releases both the performances as well as what for sale?

the winner's coronation single

How were the recordings released for the initial five seasons?

as a compilation album

Because all five were in the top ten of Billboard's charts, this made Idol what?

the most successful soundtrack franchise

Who joined Idol as a sponsor in season seven?

iTunes


19 Recordings, a recording label owned by 19 Entertainment, currently hold the rights to phonographic material recorded by all the contestants. 19 originally partnered with Bertelsmann Music Group (BMG) to promote and distribute the recordings through its labels RCA Records, Arista Records, J Records, Jive Records. In 2005-2007, BMG partnered with Sony Music Entertainment to form a joint venture known as Sony BMG Music Entertainment. From 2008-2010, Sony Music handled the distribution following their acquisition of BMG. Sony Music was partnered with American Idol and distribute its music, and In 2010, Sony was replaced by as the music label for American Idol by UMG's Interscope-Geffen-A&M Records.

What company has the right to all recordings from contestants on American Idol?

19 Recordings

What company took over as American Idols music label in 2010?

UMG

What company had released music from American Idol in addition to Sony Music Entertainment?

BMG

Who owns 19 Recordings?

19 Entertainment

Who owns the rights to all phonographic material done by the contestants?

19 Recordings

Who did 19 initially partner with to distribute the recordings?

BMG

Who did BMG partner with in 2005-2007?

Sony Music Entertainment

Who replaced Sony in 2010 as Idol's music label?

UMG's Interscope-Geffen-A&M Records


On February 14, 2009, The Walt Disney Company debuted "The American Idol Experience" at its Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. In this live production, co-produced by 19 Entertainment, park guests chose from a list of songs and auditioned privately for Disney cast members. Those selected then performed on a stage in a 1000-seat theater replicating the Idol set. Three judges, whose mannerisms and style mimicked those of the real Idol judges, critiqued the performances. Audience members then voted for their favorite performer. There were several preliminary-round shows during the day that culminated in a "finals" show in the evening where one of the winners of the previous rounds that day was selected as the overall winner. The winner of the finals show received a "Dream Ticket" that granted them front-of-the-line privileges at any future American Idol audition. The attraction closed on August 30, 2014.

What company has a them park attraction known as The American Idol Experience?

The Walt Disney Company

In what year did The Walt Disney Company open The American Idol Experience?

In what year did The Walt Disney Company close The American Idol Experience?

What company had a partnership with The Walt Disney Company for The American Idol Experience?

19 Entertainment

When did the American Idol Experience open?

February 14, 2009

Where did it open?

Walt Disney World

What did the winner win?

Dream Ticket

When did the Experience close?

August 30, 2014


American Idol is broadcast to over 100 nations outside of the United States. In most nations these are not live broadcasts and may be tape delayed by several days or weeks. In Canada, the first thirteen seasons of American Idol were aired live by CTV and/or CTV Two, in simulcast with Fox. CTV dropped Idol after its thirteenth season and in August 2014, Yes TV announced that it had picked up Canadian rights to American Idol beginning in its 2015 season.

How many different countries air American Idol on television?

over 100

What network broadcasted American Idol live in Canada for thirteen seasons?

CTV

In what year did CTV stop showing live broadcasts of American Idol?

What Canadian network began airing American Idol in 2015?

Yes TV

How many nations receive the Idol broadcast?

over 100

Who aired the first thirteen seasons in Canada?

CTV and/or CTV Two

Who stated in August 2014 that they picked up the rights beginning in its 2015 season?

Yes TV