During American Idol’s first season, Kelly Clarkson stepped into the spotlight, and has since become one of the best former reality competition contestants ever. The “Love So Soft” singer often breaks chart records, sells out stadiums, and charms her way into America’s heart all over again, especially as a coach on The Voice. Kelly Clarkson joined The Voice in 2018. During her four seasons on the hit NBC series, she has had three contestants win the season - most recently Jake Hoot. Kelly Clarkson is an MVP coach: she knows what it takes to win a competition reality series and America’s love.
Since American Idol’s 2002 finale, the series has had 16 other winners. Except for Carrie Underwood, none of the others has had nearly the same success as Clarkson. The Voice and other singing reality shows have also had many contestants, but most of them have yet to reach major stardom. This proves that taking home a reality TV competition crown doesn’t guarantee success, which makes Kelly Clarkson’s career longevity even more impressive.
Clarkson’s initial fame seems to be because of American Idol being such a pop culture phenomenon, especially during the first few seasons. The 2002 American Idol finale was one of the most buzzed about topics of that year; it united coworkers, friends, and families across America. Everyone wanted to witness who would take the crown between Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini. After American Idol, the singer stayed on the media circuit showcasing her stellar singing abilities, personality, and making fans excited for her upcoming album.
Clarkson’s constant visibility allowed her to charm America long after the confetti vanished. The American Idol team made sure to write and produce songs that kept her ranking high on the billboard charts and winning awards. Another reason for Clarkson’s career longevity is that she seems real and down-to-earth. In a world of very manufactured reality TV stars, Clarkson has remained one of the most natural and girl-next-door personalities out there. She feels like your best friend because she probably could be. Unlike some other famous people who started on reality TV, Clarkson doesn’t have a too-cool for commoners vibe.
Another factor that makes Kelly Clarkson successful is her talent. When she sings, she gives it everything - passion, heart, range, and soul. Whether doing covers of popular songs or singing her own hits, Clarkson brings chills with every new note, while also commanding attention. Like many great performers, she knows how to evolve and change career directions. Her diverse resume recently added talk show host to it, and The Kelly Clarkson Show is proving to be a major hit among viewers. Clarkson’s infectious enthusiasm as a host is partly why viewers continue to tune in daily.
Clarkson has the talent, personality, business sense, and work ethic to become one of the most legendary performers of this generation. Her humble reality TV beginnings were just a catalyst for her long, diverse career. We can’t wait to see what the future brings for this former reality TV contestant-turned-superstar.