American Idol: What does the winner get?
SINCE premiering in 2002, American Idol has introduced the world to several stars and crowned 21 winners.
Here we take a look at what those winners received.
American Idol: What does the winner get?
Outside of exposure, the winners of American Idol receive a pretty penny and a record contract with Hollywood Records.
They first receive $125,000, and then an additional $100,000 after they complete an entire album for a total of $250,000, according to .
The Idol winners also "have a budget of as much as $300,000 to record that album, which is given as an advance that they will have to pay back against future earnings," according to the outlet.
While this might seem like a lot of money, the prize money is substantially lower now than in previous years.
For example, Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, and Fantasia Barrino were awarded $1 million deals, but because the popularity of the show has dropped, the network had to reduce its payout.
Who are the previous American Idol winners?
The American Idol winners include:
- Season 1: Kelly Clarkson
- Season 2: Ruben Studdard
- Season 3: Fantasia Barrino
- Season 4: Carrie Underwood
- Season 5: Taylor Hicks
- Season 6: Jordin Sparks
- Season 7: David Cook
- Season 8: Kris Allen
- Season 9: Lee DeWyze
- Season 10: Scotty McCreery
- Season 11: Phillip Phillips
- Season 12: Candice Glover
- Season 13: Caleb Johnson
- Season 14: Nick Fradiani
- Season 15: Trent Harmon
- Season 16: Maddie Poppe
- Season 17: Laine Hardy
- Season 18: Just Sam
- Season 19: Chayce Beckham
- Season 20: Noah Thompson
- Season 21: Iam Tongi
How can I watch American Idol?
American Idol's latest season premiered on February 18, 2024.
Ryan Seacrest returned as the show's host alongside long-time judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.
Katy Petty announced that this season is her last season on the show.
Fans can re-watch their favorite episodes on ABC's website and on Hulu.