Should They Have Been the Idol Winners?

Some might argue that the past winners of American Idol did not really deserve to win. Runners up, in many cases were argued to be the better contestant. Let us look back at previous American Idol Runners ups to determine, based upon their post Idol careers. Should they have been to Idol winners?

Justin Guarini from season 1 was a teenage heartthrob and sent all the girls hearts a-twitter. But was he robbed of the title by a less deserving Kelly Clarkson? NO. His post Idol career started strong with an Album, The Midnight Voices already under his best. But his 2003 Idol album timed to for simultaneous release with his movie "From Justin to Kelly" made a large slapping noise when it summarily flopped. While the movie stinker hit Justin like a brick wall, Kelly just shrugged it off and kept going. Since his Idol days, Justin has composed music and lyrics, and recorded the song Everlasting, which is on his Album Strange Things Have Happened (2006). He is also involved acting, and had done some independent film projects.

Clay Aiken from season 2 lost to Ruben Studdard, whose post Idol career has been iffy at best. Clay Aiken on the other hand, has managed to stay in the limelight, but in a more infamous way. He has had seven tours, authored a best selling book, and hosted a Christmas Special. He has made numerous talk show appearances, and has taken Regis Philbin's place on Regis and Kelly. The result of his last co-hosting was not good. He has released three Albums'; Measure of a Man, Merry Christmas with Love, and A Thousand Different Ways. Clay also won several American Music and Billboard Awards. Yes, perhaps he should have won. But personally, I still like Rueben more.