New American Idol Chosen

Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood was crowned the American Idol during the live season finale tonight on Fox. Underwood, 22, of Checotah, OK, emerged as America’s choice in a competition that began with over 100,000 hopefuls who auditioned in Cleveland, St. Louis, New Orleans, Las Vegas, Orlando, San Francisco and Washington, DC. Over the course of the season, viewers cast more than half a billion votes to support their favorite contestants.

Underwood and co-finalist Bo Bice each performed three songs. Both sang the original "American Idol" single “Inside Your Heaven.” In addition, Underwood sang "Angels Brought Me Here" and Martina McBride’s "Independence Day," and Bice sang "Long, Long Road" and "Vehicle" by The Ides of March. The Top 12 American Idol contestants were reunited on tonight’s final results show, joined by guest artists George Benson, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kenny G, Babyface, Billy Preston, Rascal Flatts and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Underwood is the fourth American Idol to be crowned, joining the group of Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard and Fantasia as winners of the title, a major recording contract and a management contract. Visit www.idolonfox.com for American Idol news and highlights.