American Idol is the American version of the British television series "Pop Idol". It was created by Simon Fuller and premiered in June of 2002.

On American Idol, contestants audition to win the title of American Idol and a recording contract. For the 2006 season, they traveled to San Francisco, Greensboro, Las Vegas, Austin, Denver, Boston and Chicago. They audition before the producers, then audition before the judges.

After picking through contestants, the public is able to vote after performances, until we're left with one American Idol. Past winners include Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, and Jordin Sparks, the most successful being Clarkson and Underwood.

American Idol also brings success for its losers. From season 2, Clay Aiken, and Josh Gracin have sold thousands of records, with Chris Daughtry selling millions with his band Daughtry. Many other Idol alumni can be seen in the entertainment industry, such as season 3 contestant Jennifer Hudson winning Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards for her role in Dream Girls, which shows that even if you don't win, you can go onto major fame and success.

The judges are Simon Cowell, who never fails to tell the cold truth, Paula Abdul, who counters Simon's snark with sweetness and Randy Jackson, who can usually give an honest yet kind opinion. The host is Ryan Seacrest.