"American Idol" has a knack for cranking out pop sensations, but whether they have the talent to stand the test of time is another question. So here's a look, from least to most successful, at the celebrity success spectrum of past "Idol" finalists.
After Season 1, Justin Guarini was THE guy to watch. Oprah declared "Justin, you have IT." A year later, RCA dropped him and his movie "From Justin to Kelly" tanked (though the title somewhat eerily foreshadowed our "Idol" success spectrum).
Sanjaya Malakar is known for being one of the most hyped "Idol" contestants. Simon Cowell threatened to quit if he won and a fan held a hunger strike until he got the boot. He's since written a book that makes Miley's look like an American classic.
It's hard to follow Kelly Clarkson. Second season winner Ruben Studdard won some awards and had some buzz, but never made it past the 15-minute-fame mark. His biggest accomplishment of late is dropping 100 lbs. At least you're looking sharp, Rubes.
Riding the "Idol" wave, Bo Bice signed to RCA records and had a chart-topping country single. But after underwhelming album numbers, RCA dropped Bo and he started his own label, Sugar Money. Whether it's gotten him any sugar and/or money is unclear.
During the contest, quirky, charismatic Taylor Hicks (aka the "Silver Fox") became a huge cultural phenomenon, but he ended up having the lowest-selling record of any "Idol" winner to date. That's sure to cause a few gray hairs.
After "Idol," Kellie Pickler made her mark in country music, but she gained most of her celebrity through conspicuous plastic surgery and endorsement appearances. She may have been an "Idol", but she seems better suited for "The Hills."
When resident bada$$ Chris Daughtry was voted off the show, he felt the voting public made a mistake. He went on to form his own band (aptly named Daughtry). They won several Grammys and their first album debuted at No. 1. Take THAT, America.
Clay Aiken became a tween sensation and surprising sex icon, though lately his record sales have been dwindling and he came out of the closet (much to the chagrin of his many young female fans). Next stop: Tyra.
Season 7 winner David Cook went on to break a number of Billboard chart records, even taking out one of Miley Cyrus' albums (watch it, Cook). He's still on the rise, but at only a year out, it's tough to tell whether he'll end up a Kelly or a Ruben.
Jordin Sparks has a platinum record under her belt. No Grammys, but she got a 'Worst Slipup' MTV VMA when she made a remark about the Jonas Brothers and "sl*ts." Now she's going on tour with the Jonas boys. Nicely played, Jordin.
The third season winner, Fantasia Barrino, has been nominated for eight Grammys and starred in the Broadway musical "The Color Purple."She's now been cast in the film adaptation. Definitely a recipe for turning "Idol" star power into Oscar gold.
While Katharine McPhee hasn't had any major accolades or chart-toppers, after being on FHM, AskMen.com and Maxim's lists of "Sexiest Women" and winning AOL's "Sexiest 'Idol' Contestant Ever" poll, we have a feeling she'll do just fine.
Last year's runner-up, David Archuleta, has caused a tween-girl hysteria that even Zac Efron couldn't handle. Since last season, the unexpected heartthrob has become the kind of pop sensation Clay Aiken was circa 2004. David, you've been warned.
Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood took off, winning four Grammys and has broken through as THE country sweetheart. However, her most coveted award came when PETA named her "World's Sexiest Vegetarian." She should really just retire on that high note.
After finishing seventh in Season 3, Jennifer Hudson did the ultimate reality-contestant turnaround, winning an Oscar, a Grammy and A-list status in the film and music business.
Inaugural "Idol" winner Kelly Clarkson has staying power. In the past 7 years, she's seen Grammys and platinum sales and has managed to maintain a firm hold on the oft-fleeting fame being a finalist on "Idol" can provide. Sorry, Justin.