There will be a lot of discussion about the legacy of "American Idol" after it names its final winner and the stage lights go off on Thursday night.
After 15 seasons, the singing-competition show has inspired countless imitators, both failed and thriving, from "The Voice" to "America's Got Talent." And in its heyday, it reached nearly 40 million live viewers — a feat no TV show will ever reach again in the DVR, delayed-viewing, multi-platform world we've entered.
But possibly the show's biggest draw was its ability to pluck Americans out of obscurity and make them stars. This was proved over and over again with not just its winners, but many of the contestants who found fame even without the guaranteed recording contract.
That is no simple feat. "The Voice" is in its 10th season and has still yet to create a music superstar.
In celebration of "Idol's" legacy, here's a look at the competition's most successful winners and alums:
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No. 19. Season 9 winner: Lee DeWyze (2010)
Estimated net worth: $50,000
No. of albums: 6
Grammy awards: N/A
Other projects: DeWyze has actively supported and performed for several charities. In 2012, he offered his song "Fight" for free to anyone who donated to The Heart Foundation benefiting heart-disease awareness.
No. 18. Season 14 winner: Nick Fradiani (2015)
Estimated net worth: $1 million
No. of albums: N/A
Grammy awards: N/A
Other projects: Fradiani's single "Beautiful Life" was the FIFA 2015 Women's World Cup's official anthem. His first album is slated to come out this year.
No. 17. Season 12 winner: Candice Glover (2013)
Estimated net worth: $1 million
No. of albums: 1
Grammy awards: N/A
Other projects: Glover was featured on Chadd Black's 2015 single "Love No Fear." Her next album is due out this year. She is also starring in the gospel musical "The Love Shack," which opened in LA in February.
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