Who was the first winner of 'American Idol'?

The first winner of American Idol was Kelly Clarkson. She won the show's inaugural U.S. season in 2002, defeating Justin Guarini in the finale. Clarkson received 58% of the 15.5 million votes cast for the final two contestants.

American Idol was adapted from the British series Pop Idol and premiered on Fox on June 11, 2002. The first season established many traditions later associated with the franchise, including televised auditions, weekly public voting, hometown visits, and a live finale.

Clarkson's victory launched a major recording career. She signed with RCA Records and released “A Moment Like This,” which became her first No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100. A common mix-up is confusing her with later winners such as Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, or Carrie Underwood. Clarkson was the first American Idol champion, while Will Young had already won the original British Pop Idol.