American Idol is an iconic reality television singing competition that has left an indelible mark on pop culture since its debut in 2002. Here's everything you need to know about the show:

Fandom Name: Idolaters

American Idol fans, often referred to as "Idolaters," are a passionate and dedicated group who follow the iconic singing competition with fervent enthusiasm. They tune in weekly to witness aspiring singers from across the nation vie for the coveted title – sharing in the triumphs and heartaches of contestants as they navigate the highs and lows of the competition. Idolaters are known for their active participation in the voting process, which directly influences the outcome of the show, and they often engage in spirited discussions and debates about performances, judge critiques, and their favorite (or least favorite) contestants on social media platforms and fan forums. Their commitment doesn't end when the season does – many Idolaters follow the careers of contestants long after the show, supporting them in their musical endeavors and celebrating their successes as if they were their own.

Format: American Idol follows a format where contestants audition in front of a panel of judges, hoping to advance to subsequent rounds. Throughout the competition, contestants perform songs individually or in groups, with viewers voting for their favorites via phone, text, or online platforms. Each week, contestants are eliminated based on the viewer votes until a winner is crowned.

Judges: Over the years, American Idol has featured a rotating panel of judges, including music industry icons, celebrities, and former contestants. Notable judges have included Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban, Harry Connick Jr., Lionel Richie,  Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan.

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Hosts: The show has had several hosts throughout its run, with Ryan Seacrest being the most prominent and consistent. Seacrest has been the host since the first season, providing commentary, interviewing contestants, and announcing results. Bobby Bones has served as an in-mentor since season 16, but left in 2022. 

Winners and Contestants: American Idol has launched the careers of numerous successful artists, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Lambert, Chris Daughtry, Jordin Sparks, and Fantasia Barrino, among many others. The most recent winner ( Season 21) was Iam Tongi. 

Impact: American Idol has had a significant impact on the music industry, influencing the way artists are discovered and promoted. The show has also inspired countless other singing competitions worldwide and has become a cultural phenomenon, with millions of viewers tuning in each season.

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Revivals and Adaptations: "American Idol" has seen several revivals and adaptations, including international versions in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and India. In addition to the original series, there have been spin-offs and specials, including "American Idol: The Search for a Superstar," "American Idol: The Next Generation," and "American Idol: The Farewell Season."

Legacy: Beyond launching the careers of successful artists, American Idol has provided a platform for aspiring singers to pursue their dreams and share their talents with the world. The show's influence extends beyond the entertainment industry, inspiring audiences to chase their passions and overcome obstacles in pursuit of their goals.

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