Where Are They Now? Find Out What Past ‘American Idol’ Winners Are Up to Today

Since its inception in 2002, American Idol has had its fair share of winners who have gone on to become superstars, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Jordin Sparks.

Later seasons have also given rise to many successful musicians across various genres, from country to soul to gospel.

Ever wonder what some of these singers are up to today? Let’s take a look back at five of the most recent Idol champions and see where their music careers have taken them.

The country singer won back in 2021. Three years later, he released his debut album, Bad For Me, featuring his hit single “23,” which he debuted in the finale of the singing competition.

He went back to his Idol roots recently in 2025, performing a duet with contestant Bryson Quick on season 23 and reuniting with  judge Luke Bryan on his Farm Tour for two shows in May.

In the fall, Beckham will open for country star Warren Zeiders on his Relapse, Lies, and Betrayal Tour.

In 2022, Thompson (another country singer!) took home the Idol crown.

Most recently, in May 2025, he dropped his EP Kids Like Me. Thompson also made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, that month.

Tongi wowed fans with his acoustic music that incorporated his Hawaiian roots. Since winning s in 2023, Tongi has undergone a major physical transformation in his life. As he revealed in May 2025, he dropped over 100 lbs.

“‘Ive lost 115 lbs. It feels amazing. I feel great,” he told People.

“We have a workout session maybe around 11, come back [home], and we go to an ice bath or sauna … or whatever it is. And then we come back, shower and go on a walk,” Tongi explained.

Like Beckham, Tonhi also had a reunion with former Idol judge Luke Bryan — in recently he took the stage with him at Florida’s JetBlue Park stadium for his Farm Tour.

Carter made history with her 2024 win, becoming the first platinum ticket recipient to win the show.

In April 2025, the pop singer released a deluxe edition of her album Ghosts in the Backyard. She will also be hitting the road soon as part of her No Amount of Dark Tour which will run from October through November.

Last but certainly not least, gospel singer Roberts came out victorious on the show’s most recent season finale on May 18 — and he’s already on to big things.

Roberts revealed in late June that he will be opening for Brandy and Monica as part of their upcoming The Boy Is Mine Tour.

The former physical education teacher will join the ’90s R&B legends on their 24-city concert series, which kicks off Oct. 16 in Cincinnati and wraps Dec. 7 in Houston.