After 15 long seasons, American Idol is finally coming to a close. The show has had a lot of heartwarming, heartbreaking, hilarious and cringe-worthy moments over its 14-year run. From the audition stage to the actual performances, some of televisions most iconic moments have happened on this Ryan Seacrest-hosted singing competition. Let’s take a look at 10 of the most hilariously iconic American Idol auditions throughout the show’s history.
1. Mary Roach, Season 4
Mary sang and…danced…to “I Feel the Earth Move” by Carole King. After being told she doesn’t have what it takes, she was convinced Simon was just saying that to “get on her nerves,” and told him that, “weirdness is originality too.” She walked out without crying as promised, but proceeded to have a fit of rage outside of the audition room.
2. William Hung, Season 3
William Hung was a huge fan-favorite and still gets talked about to this day whenever Idol is brought up. This sweet, eccentric young man performed a very unique rendition of “She Bangs” by Ricky Martin. He was so popular he even toured the country.
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3. Keith Beukelear, Season 2
Keith announced that he cut his hair and lost a little weight for the audition to prep and create a more Idol-like look. His performance of “Like a Virgin” by Madonna could have used some prep too.
4. Sarah Goldberg, Season 6
Sarah might be the only contestant to enter this singing contest without planning on singing well. After her self-proclaimed atrocious performance of “Dreaming of You” by Selena, she tells the judges she knows she can’t sing, but explains why she can still be the next American Idol; because they can teach her how to sing. That’s..not exactly what this show is, Sarah. But thank you for the entertainment.
5. Jarrod Norrell, Season 9
Jarrod’s at least passionate and unwilling to give up on his dreams, you gotta give him that. When the judges tell him it’s a no, he refuses to leave, to the point where security has to come in, handcuff and escort him out.
6. Steven Thoen, Season 6
Steven, aka “Red,” starts off by admitting he’s not even a fan of the show and has never been inspired by anyone on it. He compares himself to Freddie Mercury and is here to show you what he can bring to the table. Can he bring it in this performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen? Watch and find out.
7. Nicholas Zitzmann, Season 6
Nicholas is a software developer/”self-taught” musician who’s been told by his coworkers that he should try out for American Idol. He’s a little off and bug-eyed, but that shouldn’t affect his performance of “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers, Simon’s favorite song. Take a look at what does affect his performance.
8. Kenneth Briggs, Season 6
Kenneth says he’s been compared to Justin Timberlake, *NSYNC and The Backstreet Boys. His dance moves and vocabulary certainly show that he believes that. Watch Kenneth perform what he and his friend hoped would be a “jaw-dropping” rendition of “Tearin’ Up My Heart” by *NSYNC.
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9. General Lee Platt, Season 9
If someone’s ever called you a fool with your pants on the ground, you can thank General Lee Platt for that. His original song “Pants on the Ground” became a viral sensation after his season 9 audition. Watch and enjoy.
10. James Lewis, Season 7
One of the most famous songs in the world takes a hilarious turn in season 7 of American Idol. Watch as James Lewis gives it his all in his performance of “Go Down Moses (Let My People Go)” by Paul Robeson.
American Idol‘s two-night farewell season premieres January 6 and 7 at 8pm on FOX.
(Images and videos courtesy of FOX)
Contributing Writer, BuddyTV
