American Idol's Biggest Losers
Sometimes the losers win big!
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Jennifer HudsonSeason 3Winner: Fantasia - Lost in the buzz surrounding Fantasia and the viewer’s love for William Hung was the soulful singer from Chicago. Hudson didn’t win season 3 of American Idol, but the Oscar-winning talent has since become one of the most widely acclaimed stars from the talent show.Photo: By Frank Micelotta/Fox/PictureGroup
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William HungSeason 3Winner: Fantasia - Sure, eventual Season 3 winner Fantasia won crowds over with her powerful pipes, but California native William Hung captured the hearts of American Idol fans with his earnest but off-key rendition of Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs.” Hung quickly became a fan favorite who, despite losing, went on to sign a record deal with Koch Entertainment. The singer has put out three solo albums and appeared in television ads and foreign sitcoms. He bangs!Photo: By Scott Gries/Getty Images
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Pia ToscanoSeason 10Winner: Scott McCreery - The New York City native was at the heart of this season’s controversy. After her unexpected elimination, fans, judges, and even Tom Hanks were up in arms. Now the singing beauty is already being courted by record labels looking to capitalize on her talent. Photo: By Frank Micelotta/Fox/PictureGroup
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Sanjaya MalakarSeason 6Winner: Jordin Sparks - The judges hated him, but the viewers voted for him. Hate him or love him, Sanjaya Malakar is easily one of the most recognized stars of American Idol. Following his loss, ratings on the show dropped and the Washington native went on to star on the reality television show I’m A Celebrity…Get Me out of Here.Photo: By Nancy Ostertag/Getty Images
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Adam LambertSeason 8Winner: Kris Allen - It didn’t take long for the season 8 runner-up to bounce back from his loss on American Idol. In November 2009 Lambert released his debut album, For Your Entertainment, which debuted at #3 on Billboard’s Top 200. The Grammy-nominated singer stirred controversy during a performance at the American Music Awards when he kissed his male bass player.Photo: By Kevin Winter/Getty Images
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