Fox made the announcement at its Upfront Presentation: American Idol will bid farewell following the end of Season 15.
Yes, the show’s ratings have declined, as has its effect on popular culture.
But there’s no denying the overall impact of American Idol as a whole, from its most popular contestants to those you may have forgotten about.
Until now! It’s time to sit back and catch up with the non-winners who captured a nation’s attention for at least a few weeks during their respective seasons:
Justin Guarini
Justin Guarini finished second to Kelly Clarkson. He then starred in a movie alongside Kelly Clarkson. He then pretty much disappeared forever.
Ruben Studdard
Okay, we’re cheating already: Ruben Studdard actually won Season 2! But he never came close to making the same impact as runner-up Clay Aiken.
Frenchie Davis
Frenchie Davis was disqualified from American Idol Season 2 for previously modeling on an adult website. Our first Idol scandal!
Corey Clark
Corey Clark was also given the Season 2 boot after producers discovered he had a police record.
William Hung
It’s our first ironic contestant. William Hung’s (REALLY!) off-key rendition of Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs” received widespread attention on Season 3.
Bucky Covington
Bucky Covington was a fan favorite on Season 5. He hasn’t gone on to do a whole lot in the music business.
Blake Lewis
Blake Lewis beat-boxed his way to second place on Season 6. But that skill did not translate to a huge career.
Sanjaya Malakar
It’s safe to say Sanjaya Malakar has changed just a bit since his underdog run in 2008, wouldn’t you agree?
Carly Smithson
We really thought Carly Smithson would win Season 7. We have no idea what happened to her since then.
Jason Castro
What? Huh? Say it isn’t so! Where is the hair, Season 7’s Jason Castro?!?
Crystal Bowersox
Crystal Bowersox has apparently not cut her hair since Season 9. And we love her for it!
Larry Platt
General Larry Platt’s did not make the finals on Season 9. But he sang something called “Pants on the Ground” and it became a viral sensation.
Lauren Alaina
Lauren Alaina finished second on Season 10. Many male viewers found her very attractive.
Chris Medina
Chris Medina starred on Season 10. His story of caring for his brain-damaged fiancée received widespread coverage, and moved us to tears.
Danny Gokey
Danny Gokey lost his first wife, sadly. He tugged at the heartstrings of viewers everywhere.
Kristy Lee Cook
Kristy Lee Cook grabbed the attention of many male fans on Season 7. You can see why, right? Right?!?