From Spotlight to Fortune: 15 American Idol Stars Who Made It Big in Fame, Fashion, and Fortune

Since its inception in 2002, American Idol has catalyzed some of the most extraordinary success stories in the music industry. From pop sensations to country crooners, the American Idol stage has witnessed the meteoric rise of some of today’s brightest stars.

But with fame comes both fortune and fizzle. Only some Idol contestants could sustain their initial spark and transform it into an enduring blaze of success.

So, who are the true champions of this iconic singing competition, still basking in the glory and wealth they earned from the show?

Let’s delve into the lives and careers of 15 American Idol contestants who have earned their place in the limelight and amassed substantial fortunes.

1. Carrie Underwood – Country Icon, Fitness Mogul, and Red Carpet Standout

Hailing from the small town of Muskogee, Oklahoma, Carrie Underwood burst onto the scene during the fourth season of American Idol, conquering the competition and paving her path to stardom.

The world soon resonated with the singer’s chart-toppers, from “Inside Your Heaven” to the soul-stirring “Jesus Take The Wheel” and the iconic “Before He Cheats.”

Carrie Underwood brought serious sparkle to the Today Show stage on September 14, 2023, stepping out in a show-stopping green fringe romper by L’jai Amor. Styled with shimmering accessories from Paco Rabanne and Mud Lowery, she completed the bold ensemble with gold Christian Louboutin Praguoise boots, adding edge, glam, and an elongating effect to her 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) frame.

Carrie Underwood shines in a green L’jai Amor fringe romper styled with gold studded Christian Louboutin Praguoise boots that elongated her petite 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) height during her Today Show performance on September 14, 2023 (Credit: Udo Salters / Startraksphoto)

She has sold over 85 million records worldwide and earned an impressive collection of accolades, including eight Grammys, 12 Billboard Music Awards, and 17 American Music Awards. Her achievements include five Guinness World Records, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and a coveted spot at the Grand Ole Opry.

But Carrie’s talents go beyond music. She’s a successful entrepreneur with her fitness clothing line, CALIA, and bestselling books including “Find Your Path.”

Forbes recognizes Carrie Underwood as the most financially successful American Idol alum, with a staggering net worth of $140 million.

2. Kelly Clarkson – First American Idol, Talk Show Queen, and Petite Style Inspiration

Kelly Clarkson ranks second on our list of the wealthiest American Idol contestants, boasting an impressive net worth of $45 million.

The 5-foot-3½-inch (161.3 cm) singer-songwriter debuted on the very first season of American Idol, quickly becoming an instant fan favorite with her powerhouse vocals and down-to-earth charm. But it wasn’t just that American Idol made Kelly—she also helped define the show’s legacy.

In a historic moment, she emerged as the first-ever American Idol winner, launching a successful career that’s as enduring as it is iconic. Known for her relatable style and size 7 shoes, Kelly has remained a red carpet regular and a voice for authenticity in music and fashion.

Kelly Clarkson commands the stage in a structured black velvet jacket layered over a glittering tiger-striped bodysuit, blending bold glamour with rockstar edge during her live performance (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)

In 2002, her debut single, “A Moment Like This,” quickly soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it the best-selling single. Hits like “Since U Been Gone,” “Behind These Hazel Eyes,” and “Because Of You” solidified her status as a music sensation.

With 11 top-ten singles, three Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, and a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, Kelly Clarkson’s impact on the music industry is undeniable.

Kelly Clarkson dazzles in a sheer, sequin-embroidered lace jumpsuit with feathered cuffs as she kicks off the 2025 Citi Concert Series on the Today show at Rockefeller Plaza on May 6, 2025 (Credit: Jorge Estrellado / TheNews2 / Cover Images)

Going beyond singing, Kelly ventured into the world of television, serving as a judge on NBC’s The Voice and hosting her hit talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, which has earned her five Daytime Emmy Awards.

3. Adam Lambert – Glam Rock Vocalist, LGBTQ+ Advocate, and Bold Fashion Risk-Taker

While Adam Lambert secured the runner-up position on the eighth season of the show, he undeniably holds the top spot in the hearts of fans worldwide.

In 2009, he released his first album, “For Your Entertainment,” which debuted at number three on the U.S. Billboard chart. His second album, “Trespassing,” made history in 2012 by claiming the number-one spot, establishing him as the first openly gay artist to achieve this milestone.

Adam Lambert turns heads in towering platform boots, buckled pants, and a pleated skirt layered over a graphic top and bomber jacket at the Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy event (Credit: PA Images / INSTARimages)

The 42-year-old has shared the stage with the iconic rock band Queen, collaborating as their lead vocalist since 2011 and participating in multiple worldwide tours.

With a remarkable net worth of $45 million, Adam Lambert is a vocal powerhouse and a humanitarian advocate for social change.

He founded the non-profit Feel Something Foundation, dedicated to human rights activism, with a strong focus on supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, ending homelessness, raising awareness about mental health, and preventing suicide.

4. Jennifer Hudson – EGOT Winner and Timeless Fashion Powerhouse

Jennifer Hudson debuted on season three of the show and may have placed seventh, but her incredible voice left an indelible mark on fans worldwide.

Not winning the season didn’t slow her down one bit. The American singer’s self-titled debut album achieved gold quickly, setting the stage for an extraordinary career.

Jennifer Hudson stuns in a shimmering off-the-shoulder black jumpsuit paired with sleek pointed-toe heels, effortlessly blending glamour and sophistication for a night out (Credit: Janet Mayer / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)

She had an exceptional start in acting, landing the starring role of Effie White in the acclaimed film Dreamgirls, which led to a flourishing acting career with roles in Sex and the City, The Secret Life of Bees, Winnie Mandela, and the TV series Empire.

Standing at 5 feet 9 inches (175.3 cm), Jennifer Hudson often leans into sleek, structured gowns and high heels that further elongate her statuesque figure. Her 2019 Oscars appearance perfectly exemplifies how she uses bold fashion and minimalist footwear to elevate her red carpet presence.

Jennifer Hudson stuns at the 91st Oscars in a sculptural red Elie Saab Haute Couture gown, styled with minimalist Nicholas Kirkwood silver sandals and Harry Winston jewels for an exquisite red carpet moment on February 24, 2019 (Credit: Kyusung Gong / ©A.M.P.A.S.)

Not content with just the silver screen, Jennifer graced the Broadway stage in The Color Purple and released two subsequent albums, “I Remember” and “JHUD,” both of which reached the top of the Billboard charts.

Additionally, Jennifer ventured into daytime television, hosting her talk show, The Jennifer Hudson Show. All these accomplishments have brought her a net worth of $30 million.

5. Katharine McPhee – Singer, Actress, and Elegant Red Carpet Regular

Standing at 5 feet 7¼ inches (170.8 cm), Katharine McPhee graced the American Idol stage during its fifth season, securing the runner-up title. While she didn’t take home the win, she walked away with something even more lasting: a successful career as a singer-songwriter and actress.

Her debut song, “Over It,” swiftly climbed the charts and earned a gold certification. It was just the beginning of her musical journey, with her second album, “Unbroken,” also making its mark on the Billboard charts.

Katharine McPhee steps out in a chic neutral tweed co-ord with a thigh-high slit, finishing the look with clear strappy heels that reveal slightly sweaty feet—an all-too-relatable side effect of fashionable footwear (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages / Cover Images)

However, the singer-songwriter isn’t confined to the world of music. She seamlessly transitioned into acting, with roles in hit movies like The House Bunny and Shark Night 3D.

Her fame continued to rise with her involvement in the CBS series Scorpion and her portrayal of New York millionaire Robert Durst’s murdered wife, Kathie, in the hit movie The Lost Wife of Robert Durst.

Katharine’s versatile talents, which include singing, songwriting, and acting, have brought her an astounding net worth of $14 million, securing her a well-deserved spot among the most successful American Idol contestants.

6. Jordin Sparks – Chart-Topping Idol with Height-Enhancing Heel Game

At 17, Jordin Sparks skyrocketed to fame by winning the hearts of millions as the champion of the sixth season of American Idol in 2007. Her success not only made her an American Idol but also made her the youngest winner in the show’s history.

In the same year of her victory, the singer-actress released her self-titled debut album, which promptly achieved platinum status. The album had big hits like “Tattoo” and her collaboration with Chris Brown, “No Air,” which clinched Jordin her very first Grammy Award.

Jordin Sparks keeps it casual-chic in a graphic tee, black skinny jeans, and a denim-accented moto jacket at the Women Who Rock event (Credit: Robert Bell / INSTARimages)

The accolades didn’t stop there. Jordin’s music resonated across award ceremonies, earning her the NAACP Image Award, a BET Award, a People’s Choice Award, and a well-deserved spot on VH1’s list of the 100 Greatest Women in Music.

However, fame came early, and in 2012, Jordin took a brief hiatus from music. She returned with a fresh perspective and a new label, eventually releasing her album “Right Here Right Now” five years later.

At 5 feet 9 inches (175.3 cm), Jordin Sparks already has a statuesque frame, but she often opts for high heels to enhance her height and command even more presence on stage and red carpets. Her arrival at The Today Show is a perfect example of how statement heels can elevate both stature and style.

Jordin Sparks turns heads in a teal plunging jumpsuit paired with bold yellow square-toe heels as she arrives at The Today Show in New York City on October 10, 2024 (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)

Her versatility extended beyond music when she appeared on the Lifetime reality TV show Jordin Sparks: A Baby Story, adding to her impressive net worth of $8 million.

7. Chris Daughtry – Rock Band Frontman with Laid-Back Style

Hailing from the small town of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, Chris Daughtry embarked on his journey to stardom during the fifth season of American Idol.

While the singer-songwriter may have secured the fourth position on the show, his career swiftly soared to great success, earning him the third-highest record sales among American Idol alums, trailing only behind the iconic names of Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson.

Chris Daughtry rocks an edgy all-black ensemble featuring a textured leather jacket, layered scarf, and dark denim at a red carpet event, blending rugged style with subtle flair (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)

In the wake of his American Idol journey, Chris released his self-titled album “Daughtry,” which was met with instant acclaim. This debut soared to number one on the Billboard Chart nine weeks following its release.

With a voice that resonated with millions, Chris didn’t stop at a solo career. He formed the popular band “Daughtry,” which enjoyed remarkable success and numerous collaborations.

The band’s accomplishments include several American Music Awards and a consistent pattern of releasing albums every three years or less. This ongoing success has secured Chris Daughtry with a remarkable net worth of $8 million.

8. Lauren Daigle – Contemporary Christian Star and Eclectic Fashion Maven

Lauren Daigle may not have made it far on her two seasons of American Idol. Still, her journey took a different turn towards great success in contemporary Christian music.

The American artist signed with Centricity Music and released her debut album, “How Can It Be,” in 2015. The album soared to the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums chart and even earned Platinum certification.

Lauren Daigle embraces a bold, eclectic style in a blue feathered mini dress, embellished mesh tights, and bright orange platform heels (Credit: Xavier Collin / Image Press Agency / ABACA / INSTARimages / Cover Images)

Her third album, “Look Up Child,” entered the scene in 2018, debuting at No. 3 on the U.S. Billboard 200. It also marked a significant milestone by becoming one of the highest-charting Christian albums on the Billboard 200 by a female artist in over two decades.

Lauren’s music journey hit a high note with her single “You Say,” which made waves on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and set a record by staying at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs chart for an impressive 129 weeks.

Lauren Daigle makes a dramatic statement at the 66th Grammy Awards in a voluminous navy Shahar Avnet gown with rainbow embroidery, paired with Fluevog platform heels and a custom Pate Jackson hat for an eclectic, whimsical finish (Credit: FV / Cover Images)

Her talent and dedication have earned her two Grammy Awards, seven GMA Dove Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, and two American Music Awards.

With four No. 1 singles on Billboard Christian Airplay and Hot Christian Songs charts, Lauren Daigle has established herself as a Christian music sensation with a net worth of $6 million.

9. Elliott Yamin – Soulful Vocalist with Casual Charm

Elliott Yamin didn’t claim the title of American Idol, but his powerful voice and prolific music career have continued to captivate audiences nationwide.

Since his appearance on the show, he has embarked on an impressive musical journey, amassing a net worth of $6 million while sustaining a successful music career.

Elliott Yamin keeps it classic on the red carpet in a burgundy blazer, striped tie, and navy slacks, finishing the look with tan suede loafers for a touch of relaxed polish (Credit: Milla Cochran / Startraksphoto)

In 2007, the American singer unleashed “Wait For You,” a standout single from his self-titled album. The album made an impressive debut, selling over 90,439 copies in its first week and securing the No. 3 spot on Billboard’s Top 40 Albums chart.

In 2020, he treated fans to a 10-track collection showcasing his vocal growth, and in 2021, he released a holiday single, “This Christmas,” featuring Lance Rodriguez.

Outside the music scene, Elliott has a busy life, including being a loving father to his young daughter, who often takes the spotlight on his Instagram page. As a person with diabetes, he’s also an active advocate for causes, raising awareness and supporting others living with diabetes.

10. Kellie Pickler – Country Sweetheart, Pageant Glam, and Platform Heels Fan

Kellie Pickler first gained national attention as a contestant on the fifth season of American Idol, securing the sixth-place position.

Like other infectious personalities among Idol winners, the country music singer seized the opportunity her platform provided to build an impressive career. In 2006, she signed with 19 Recordings and BNA Records as a recording artist.

Though she stands at just 5 feet ½ inch (153.7 cm), Kellie Pickler carries a powerful presence—and a deeply personal tribute—with her wherever she goes. One of her most meaningful accessories is the “Faye” tattoo on her foot, honoring her beloved grandmother who raised her after a turbulent childhood.

Kellie got the tattoo in 2008, six years after Faye passed away, and even penned the song “My Angel” in her memory. The tattoo, complete with a halo, reflects the love and loss that shaped her—and is often visible when she steps out in open-toe heels like the ones she wore below.

Kellie Pickler dazzles in a shimmering silver mini dress paired with matching ankle-strap heels, bringing full-on sparkle to the Hallmark Channel red carpet (Credit: Sara De Boer / Startraksphoto)

Her debut album, “Small Town Girl,” hit the shelves later that year and sold over 900,000 copies. Kellie followed her debut with a self-titled second album in 2008, generating four more singles that solidified her presence in the country music scene.

Aside from her music career, Kellie achieved notable success on television, culminating in her impressive net worth of $4 million.

In 2013, she and her partner, Derek Hough, claimed victory in the sixteenth season of Dancing with the Stars. From 2017 to 2019, Kellie co-hosted the nationally syndicated daytime TV talk show Pickler & Ben with comedian Ben Aaron. She also became a reality TV star with her CMT show, I Love Kellie Pickler, which premiered in 2015.

11. Clay Aiken – Idol Runner-Up, Pop Crooner, and Broadway Personality

Clay Aiken rose to fame as the runner-up on the second season of American Idol.

Following his journey on the show, the American singer achieved enormous success in music, with his debut album “Measure of a Man” going multi-platinum and cementing his status as a pop superstar.

Clay Aiken adds a playful twist to classic style in a burgundy sweater, collared shirt, and bold striped trousers, grounded by sleek brown leather shoes at Once on This Island: The Musical (Credit: Adam Nemser / Startraksphoto)

He is the fourth highest-selling American Idol contestant, with over five million album sales spanning six studio albums. His memoir, “Learning to Sing,” also soared to the top of the New York Times Bestseller List.

Clay delved into television with a Christmas special and even graced the Broadway stage with a role in Spamalot. He also appeared on several TV shows and competed in the fifth season of The Celebrity Apprentice, finishing as the runner-up.

He entered politics in 2014 by running for the United States House of Representatives in North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district. In 2022, he made another attempt, this time in North Carolina’s 4th congressional district, though he was disappointed in the primary.

Despite his political endeavors, a significant portion of Clay Aiken’s wealth, amounting to $4 million, is attributed to the albums he’s sold throughout his impressive career.

12. Scotty McCreery – Country Favorite with All-American Style

Scotty McCreery’s journey to stardom began in May 2011 when he clinched the title of American Idol during the show’s tenth season.

His career took off with his debut studio album, “Clear as Day,” which hit the shelves in October 2011 and became certified platinum. Tracks like “I Love You This Big” and “The Trouble with Girls” became country chart-toppers.

Scotty McCreery keeps it casual and cool in a black V-neck tee and neon green shorts, flashing a peace sign at a summer event hosted by 102.7 The Coyote and GO Pool Dayclub (Credit: PA Images / INSTARimages)

The country singer also released “Christmas with Scotty McCreery” in October 2012, which received a certified gold rating. In October 2013, he released his third album, “See You Tonight,” with its title track becoming his first top-ten single on Billboard’s Country charts.

In July 2017, Scotty set a significant record with his single “Five More Minutes,” making him the first country music artist in Country Aircheck/Media Base history to chart a song without the backing of a record label.

Scotty went beyond music, having served as an executive producer for the second Hallmark Movies & Mysteries television movie, “Five More Minutes: Moments Like These,” inspired by his 2018 hit “Five More Minutes.”

With his unshakable country music career, tour commitments, and ventures into television and film, Scotty McCreery has amassed a significant net worth of $4 million.

13. Todrick Hall – Viral Entertainer, Broadway Star, and Statement Style Creator

With an impressive net worth of $4 million, Todrick Hall gained national attention as a contestant on the ninth season of “American Idol.”

In his music career, the American singer has released four studio albums, including “Straight Outta Oz” in 2016 and “Forbidden” in 2018. He also responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with the EP “Quarantine Queen” in 2020, featuring the hit “Mask, Gloves, Soap, Scrub.”

Todrick Hall channels bold elegance in a black military-inspired blazer with gold buttons and red cuff accents, layered over a black tee and accessorized with layered necklaces and a wide-brimmed hat at a BBC One event (Credit: Ian West / PA Images / INSTARimages)

Following his stint in the singing competition, Todrick entered digital media, gaining fame on YouTube by creating original songs, parodies, and humorous skits. His creative video-making process inspired an MTV documentary series called “Todrick.”

His involvement in the reality competition world expanded as he transitioned to a resident choreographer and an occasional judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, starting with season eight. 

In addition to his television ventures, Todrick’s career extended to the theater stage. From 2016 to 2017, he played Lola in Kinky Boots on Broadway. Later, in 2017, he played Billy Flynn in Chicago’s Broadway and West End productions.

14. Kris Allen – Underdog Winner with Easygoing, Guitar-Ready Looks

Kris Allen rose to fame as the winner of the eighth season of American Idol, where he triumphed over Adam Lambert.

Before his stint on the show, the singer-songwriter self-released the “Brand New Shoes” album in 2007. His post-Idol journey included chart-topping hits like “No Boundaries” and his version of “Heartless,” which reached the Top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100.

Kris Allen rocks the stage in a plaid button-up shirt, skinny black jeans, and black high-top sneakers, delivering a laid-back yet polished performance look (Credit: INFevents)

His self-titled album, released in November 2009, debuted at number 11 on the U.S. Billboard 200. The album’s lead single, “Live Like We’re Dying,” peaked at 18 in the U.S., with over 1.7 million sales.

Despite a car accident in 2012 that could have derailed his career, Kris made a triumphant return. In March 2016, he released his fifth studio album, “Letting You In.” In 2018, he joined the American Idol Live! Tour as a special guest and released a new single, “When All The Stars Have Died.”

Kris continues to thrive in music, touring in 2021 with David Cook, releasing new songs, and boasting a $3.5 million net worth, firmly establishing his success among American Idol alumni.

15. Ruben Studdard – Velvet Voice and Suave Classic Style

Ruben Studdard made history by winning the second American Idol season with his silky voice and incredible talent, surpassing Clay Aiken.

After his American Idol victory, the Grammy-nominated singer soared in his career with seven studio albums, including notable hits like “Flying Without Wings,” “Sorry 2004,” and “Change Me,” and his platinum-selling debut album “Soulful” and top-selling gospel follow-up “I Need an Angel.”

Ruben Studdard looks polished on the red carpet in a navy blazer with a paisley pocket square, gray dress pants, and classic brown leather shoes (Credit: Vince Flores / Startraksphoto)

Ruben paid tribute to the legendary Luther Vandross with the album “Ruben Sings Luther” in 2018. The release was followed by the “Always & Forever” national tour, where he celebrated the timeless music of Luther Vandross.

In a unique twist, Ruben’s journey also led him to television, where he participated in the fifteenth season of The Biggest Loser.

He further expanded his horizons by making his Broadway debut in December 2018 in Ruben & Clay’s First Annual Christmas Carol Family Fun Pageant Spectacular Reunion Show, contributing to his impressive net worth of $3 million.

Stepping Out in Style: American Idol Stars and Their Iconic Footwear

American Idol has been a platform for vocal talents and a runway for fashion statements. Let’s take a look at some memorable shoe moments from the show’s stars:

Carrie Underwood Shines in Metallic Sandals at the 2024 Songwriter Hall of Fame Gala

• Event: 2024 Songwriter Hall of Fame Gala
• Outfit: Carrie Underwood dazzled in a futuristic Rafik Zaki gown featuring a crumpled foil-like chrome bodice and a textured mint-green ruffled high-low skirt.
• Footwear: She paired her ensemble with classic mirror metallic silver platform sandals, enhancing her 5’2″ stature.
• Read more: Carrie Underwood’s Futuristic Look at the Songwriter Hall of Fame Gala

Jennifer Hudson Dazzles in Christian Louboutin Degrastrass Pumps at the ‘Respect’ Premiere

• Event: Premiere of ‘Respect’ in Los Angeles
• Outfit: Jennifer Hudson wore a regal Dolce & Gabbana purple sequined gown with a dramatic chiffon veil.
• Footwear: She completed her look with sparkling Christian Louboutin Degrastrass pumps, featuring a transparent PVC upper adorned with strass crystals and signature red soles.
• Read more: Jennifer Hudson’s Show-Stopping Look at the ‘Respect’ Premiere

Katy Perry Turns Heads in Paris Texas Over-the-Knee Boots During American Idol Promotions

• Event: Promotion of American Idol Season 21
• Outfit: Katy Perry donned a dazzling disco ensemble featuring a sequined crop top and a bold zebra-print skirt suit.
• Footwear: She elevated her look with Paris Texas over-the-knee boots, adding an edgy touch to her ensemble.
• Read more: Katy Perry’s Dazzling Disco Look for American Idol

These moments highlight how American Idol stars use footwear to make bold fashion statements, complementing their performances and public appearances.