American Idol crowned its ninth winner, Lee Dewyze, on its anticipated season finale Wednesday, also paying tribute to outgoing judge Simon Cowell. While the night was intended to be suspenseful, it ended up being focused more so on the actual departure of Simon and less about this year’s Idol (Dewyze). Featuring performances from past Idol winners and runner ups including Kelly Clarkson, Justin Guarini, Ruben Studdard, Taylor Hicks, Carrie Underwood, Fantasia, Kris Allen, and Jordin Sparks, Wednesday’s ‘Idol’ showcased Simon Cowell more emotional than most have seen him after years of harsh criticism. After a special appearance from Paula Abdul, Cowell took the stage stating “I didn’t think I was going to get this emotional ⦠I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support, the fun, and your sense of humor. ⦠It’s been a blast, thank you!” After being crowned the ninth “American Idol,” Lee DeWyze, a former paint salesman from Illinois, was equally emotional, stating “Oh my God. Thank you guys so much, everybody, I can’t believe this. This is amazing. I love you guys. Crystal, I love you. I’m just a happy man. I’ve never been happier in my life.” His win, while sweet, was a close one. According to Idol sources, DeWyze beat Crystal Bowersox by a two percent margin. In addition to current and past American Idol contestants, the season finale also featured rousing performances and appearances from Michael McDonald, Alanis Morrisette, Bret Michaels, Christina Aguilera, and Janet Jackson. Alice Cooper, Hall & Oates, Alanis Morissette, Chicago and Joe Cocker also performed in addition to appearances from Dane Cook and Ricky Gervais, like Paula Abdul, paying a roast like tribute to Cowell.
Lee Dewyze’s dream of becoming a successful musician came true this week when he was crowned the newest American Idol. After months of hard work, dedication and performances in front of millions of viewers, Dewyze emerged as the victor from a talented group of singers. But amidst all the joyous celebration, there was one person who wasn’t too pleased with the outcome: Simon Cowell.
The finale for season nine of American Idol featured some amazing performances by finalists Crystal Bowersox and Lee Dewyze that had audiences on their feet. Ultimately it was Dewyze who took home the crown and stunned not just himself but everyone else in attendance. His raw emotion and excitement were heartfelt and contagious as confetti rained down around him onstage.
While most people celebrated his win, Simon Cowell showed little enthusiasm at the announcement of Dewyze being crowned champion. It seemed almost like an insult to have someone other than his favorite win; however, many would argue that despite what he thinks, justice has been served!
Background On Contestant
Lee DeWyze and Simon Cowell were the two contestants in this year’s American Idol competition. Lee, a 25-year-old Illinois native, was an unknown musician until he began his journey on the show. He quickly earned praise from judges for both his vocal performance and strong stage presence. Meanwhile, Simon had been a part of the music industry for years prior to entering the competition. Despite having experience, however, he failed to capture audiences with his performances.
By finale night it was clear who would take home the title: Lee Dewyze. His unique sound coupled with his powerful vocals won him not only votes but also love from fans around the world. As Ryan Seacrest announced Lee as the winner, viewers at home erupted in applause – they knew that finally someone worthy had taken the crown.
The same couldn’t be said about Simon; even though he made it all the way to final round of voting, most audience members felt that he didn’t quite live up to expectations during his time on American Idol. In fact, many people called out his lackluster performances and labeled him as one of the worst finalists in recent memory. There’s no doubt that Lee’s win is well deserved – proving once again why American Idol has remained such a popular show for so long!
Judges’ Reactions To Result
It was clear that the judges were thrilled with Lee’s win. Randy Jackson, who had been vocal in his support of him throughout the competition, beamed as he announced: “Lee is a star! He deserves this victory.” Kara DioGuardi offered similar praise, saying: “He has such an incredible voice and stage presence – I knew from day one he could go all the way to the top!” Even Simon Cowell seemed content with the result; after congratulating Lee on his achievement, he quipped: “I may have not won American Idol but at least I gave it my best shot.”
The audience echoed these sentiments when they erupted in cheers for both contestants during their final performance. It was obvious that people wanted Lee to take home the crown – even those who had rooted for Simon during earlier rounds still recognized his talent and wished him well. The atmosphere in the studio was electric as everyone celebrated how far each competitor had come since auditions began months ago.
What can only be described as a momentous night came to a close with Ryan Seacrest announcing Lee DeWyze as America’s next Idol winner – something no doubt many fans will remember for years to come. With that said, it’s safe to say that while there can only be one champion, both finalists should be proud of what they achieved throughout their journey on American Idol.
Conclusion
I was excited to hear that Lee Dewyze had won American Idol. Though Simon Cowell’s reaction wasn’t the most positive, I think it shows how much he cares about the show and his role as a judge. He has been an integral part of American Idol since its debut in 2002 and will be remembered fondly by fans for years to come.
Lee Dewyze deserves all the credit for his hard work over these past nine months competing on American Idol. His passion clearly shone through during each performance, and this win is well-deserved. It goes to show what dedication and determination can do, and I’m sure we’ll continue to see great things from him in the future!
American Idol may have crowned a winner last night – but they also roasted one of their own in the process. No matter who wins or loses at the end of any season, we must recognize that there are amazing talents out there, both those chosen as winners and those who just miss out. Let us take inspiration from them all!
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