who is the BEST AMERICAN IDOL ever?

Maroulis’ Steven Tyler-esque manner of hair-stroking and seducing his microphone had a polarizing effect on viewers and judges alike. Even Simon told him, “If this were Smoldering Idol, you’d win hands down.” Yet Maroulis’ peak was the gutsiest song choice of any competition: Queen’s rock-operatic “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which — come on — might be a classic, but also is the kind of song you never try to take seriously. Maroulis, 29, pulled off an electric performance — tongue-wagging and all, inching toward the head of the pack by showing that showmanship really does go a long way.Huff, a last-minute replacement for booted finalist Donnie Williams, was best known for looking a decade older than his 22 years. But on an Elton John-themed night, Huff leapt from his role as an also-ran to a serious contender by singing the lesser-known “Take Me to the Pilot.” Showing a gospel flair and what would become his trademark calf-exercising bounce, Huff’s husky-voiced rendition not only revealed an old-school soul, but a guy whose joy of singing was so infectious you couldn’t help but smile.

I adore Kelly clarkson for the power of her voice!

I haven't followed ALL the seasons. Just seasons 3 and 4. I must say, I like Carrie Underwood better than Fantasia. Carrie is very consistent in her performance and I never doubted that she would be in the top. She's still impressing me even after American Idol. I liked Fantasia in the beginning. I was very impressed with her in the semifinals. I got bored with some of her performances in the finals though. And I haven't heard too much of her after AI, except for her performance in one of the finals nights, wherein I was unimpressed. Just my two cents though.

Hi, The biggest American Idol would have to be Elvis Presley. mahalo, oahu lopaka.