American Idol Live

American Idol is based on UK show "Pop Idol" is a reality television signing competition show created by Simon Fuller and produced by 19 Entertainment and Fremantle Media North America. From the first airing of American Idol in 2002 till 2012, it has been the most watched TV show in the history of U.S television, and is the only program to maintain the number one position for the seven consecutive seasons. The idea of the show is to find new solo recording artists from the general public. There is a panel of judges hired by the series every year, who shortlist the contestants to a specific number, and later on critique the contestant's performance. The ultimate winner is determined by the viewers through voting, and the voting is conducted by fans calling in, the internet and SMS. The panel of judges hired by the show usually includes record producer and music manager Randy Jackson, music executive and manager Simon Cowbell and pop singer and choreographer Paula Abdul for the first few seasons. Although many judges have changed over the years, but Randy Jackson has been a consistent judge throughout the entire season of American Idol. The series is hosted by radio personality Ryan Seacrest and originally co-hosted for the first season with stand-up comedian Brian Dunk leman. Winners of the show include super star Kelly Clarkson for the first season, Ruben Stoddard for the second season, Fantasia Barrino for the third one, Carrie Underwood and Taylor Hicks for fourth and fifth season. By 2012, the show is reported to earn revenue of over $900 million through sales of TV ads, albums, concert tickets and merchandise, and by the seven seasons the show has been reported to earn $900 million by TV ads alone. Estimates say that viewership for the eight seasons of American Idol is expected to be even higher. See American Idols Live on tour and get your tickets at Ticket America.