Sam Amico
It’s been 20 years since Kelly Clarkson won American Idol. Yes, 20 years. Can you believe that?
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Some people remember the day, as it launched her career as one of the world’s most popular entertainers. Clarkson has been killing it in the industry for the last 20 years. And no less than Clarkson herself celebrated the anniversary of when she went from Texas waitress to international celebrity.
“20 years ago today I won American Idol and it forever changed the course of my life,” she wrote on Instagram. “That moment was the door that opened up so much access and opportunity, and created partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days. The family and friendships I have created one these 20 years in music and TV are priceless to me.”
Back in 2002, Clarkson beat out Justin Guarini in American Idol’s first season. She received millions of votes from the audience to win a recording contract.
She has gone on to win three Grammy awards for her musical career and five Daytime Emmys as host of The Kelly Clarkson Show.
“We only get so many trips around the sun and while I am proud and feel abundantly blessed of the successes and failures that I have learned from, I am most proud and grateful for those friends that have become family, and for their arms that have held me when I needed It and their hearts that listened to me when I felt lost,” Clarkson wrote. “Without them I would not be where I am. I would probably not be here at all.
“Thank you so much to every single person that voted 20 years ago! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”
