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American Idol, since it blasted on to the scene in 2002, has been a vehicle for several excellent singers to have successful careers. Idol winners such as Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Jordan Sparks, and Fantasia Barino have all achieved levels of success and recognition far beyond what they likely imagined when walking in for their first auditions. However, as successful as some of the winners have become, it seems that some of the most successful and popular former American Idols were not only not winners, but did not even make it in to the final three.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson was one of the top contenders in season three, however the fans decided she was not the best of the best and voted her off as the 6th contestant. There was some controversy over the decision, and some believed that maybe fans thought Jennifer did so well that she was guaranteed to stick around another week and that it was not necessary to vote for her. Whether or not this is true, Jennifer's American Idol career was cut short. In retrospect, the early exit from Idol was probably the best thing that could have happened to her, as Jennifer has since gone on to become a major Hollywood movie star, winning the best supporting actress Oscar in 2008 for her brilliant performance in Dream Girls as well as 27 other various awards including a Grammy during a career that began less than a decade ago. Jennifer Hudson is proof positive that winning isn't everything on American Idol!

Chris Daughtry

Chris Daughtry was the favorite to win season 5, yet he was another contestant prematurely voted off for reasons that are unexplainable. Chris never let his loss get in the way of what has become a very successful career so far. Chris saw great success with his debut album, Daughtry, which was nominated for four Grammys, including best pop performance by a duo or group. Chris was even offered the lead singer role with the band Fuel but turned the offer down to continue to make music with his own band; a very wise choice, it seems.

Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson

Several former contestants of American Idol who did not take home the title have gone on to see success, such as Clay Aiken, Kellie Pickler, Bo Bice, and Bucky Covington. Some of these successes were no surprise to fans and some very unexpected. However, it is no doubt that two of the most successful former Idols did, indeed, win the coveted crown. Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson, winners of season four and season one respectively, have proven that American Idol is about finding the best and brightest new talents and giving them the opportunities to shine. Carrie and Kelly have both shone brightly with numerous number one singles, albums, and awards since winning the top prize on Idol, proving that although being a winner isn't necessary to success after Idol, it surely doesn't hurt.

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