Here we take a look at what those winners received.
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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 received $125,000, and then an additional $100,000 after they complete an entire album for a total of $250,000, according to Newsweek.
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
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How can I watch American Idol?
American Idol’s latest season is set to premiere 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 will be her last season on the show.
While the season might be over, fans are still able to re-watch their favorite episodes on ABC’s website and on Hulu.