American Idol Season 5: Where Are The Top 10 Now?

Hey guys! Remember American Idol Season 5? It was totally iconic, right? From amazing vocals to some seriously unforgettable moments, that season had it all. We're talking about the season that brought us Chris Daughtry's rockstar presence and Katharine McPhee's stunning voice. But what happened to the Top 10 after the confetti settled? Let's dive in and see where those talented singers are today!

The Stars of Season 5

Before we jump into where they are now, let's refresh our memories about who they were. American Idol Season 5 aired in 2006 and quickly became a massive hit. The judges – Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson – were at the peak of their entertaining critiques. The contestants? A mix of raw talent and polished performers, all vying for the top spot. From ballads to rock anthems, each week brought something new. The Top 10 finalists included:

1. Taylor Hicks (The Winner)
2. Katharine McPhee (The Runner-Up)
3. Elliott Yamin
4. Chris Daughtry
5. Paris Bennett
6. Kellie Pickler
7. Ace Young
8. Bucky Covington
9. Mandisa
10. Lisa Tucker

Each of these contestants brought something unique to the show. Whether it was a powerful voice, an engaging stage presence, or a compelling backstory, they all captured the hearts of millions of viewers. The sheer talent in this season was undeniable, making it one of the most memorable in American Idol history. Now, let's get to the juicy part: what have they been up to since their Idol days?

1. Taylor Hicks: The Soulful Winner

Taylor Hicks, with his unique soulful voice and signature gray hair, won the hearts of America and clinched the title. Winning American Idol Season 5 was just the beginning for Taylor. Following his win, he released his self-titled debut album, which went platinum. He then ventured into Broadway, starring as Teen Angel in Grease. Besides music and theater, Taylor has also dabbled in television, hosting a food and travel show called "State Plate" on INSP. He even opened a restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama, called "Saw's Juke Joint," combining his love for food and music. Over the years, Taylor has continued to release music, tour, and perform. He's stayed true to his soulful roots, delighting fans with his distinctive sound. Taylor's journey post-Idol showcases his versatility and passion for various artistic pursuits. He remains an active figure in the entertainment world, continually seeking new avenues to express his creativity. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, proving that winning is just the start of a potentially long and fruitful career.

2. Katharine McPhee: From Idol to Hollywood Star

Katharine McPhee was the runner-up of Season 5, but that didn't stop her from achieving major success. With her stunning looks and incredible vocal ability, she quickly became a fan favorite. After Idol, Katharine launched a successful music career, releasing several albums and singles. However, she truly shined in the acting world. She starred in the NBC series "Smash," showcasing her singing and acting talents. She's also appeared in shows like "CSI: NY," "Community," and "Scorpion." Katharine's film credits include roles in "The House Bunny" and "Shark Night 3D." In addition to her professional achievements, Katharine's personal life has also been in the spotlight. She married music producer David Foster in 2019, and they welcomed their first child in 2021. Katharine's journey from American Idol contestant to Hollywood star is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication. She has proven that with determination, you can excel in multiple fields and achieve your dreams.

3. Elliott Yamin: The Soulful Crooner

Elliott Yamin finished in third place and quickly became known for his soulful voice and heartfelt performances. After American Idol, Elliott released his self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single "Wait for You." The song reached the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying his place in the music industry. He continued to release albums and tour, showcasing his unique blend of soul, R&B, and pop. Elliott has also been an advocate for diabetes awareness, as he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age. He has used his platform to raise awareness and inspire others living with the condition. Elliott's career has been marked by his passion for music and his commitment to making a difference in the world. His genuine personality and raw talent have earned him a loyal fan base that continues to support him.

4. Chris Daughtry: The Rock Superstar

Chris Daughtry, despite finishing in fourth place, has become one of the most successful contestants from Season 5. His rockstar presence and powerful vocals made him an instant fan favorite. After being eliminated, Chris formed the band Daughtry, and their self-titled debut album became the fastest-selling rock album in Soundscan history. The album featured hit singles like "It's Not Over," "Home," and "Over You." Daughtry has released several successful albums since then, and they have toured extensively around the world. Chris has also collaborated with other artists and has appeared on television shows like "CSI: NY" and "American Idol" as a mentor. He even competed on "The Masked Singer" as the Rottweiler, finishing in second place. Chris's success story is a testament to his talent, hard work, and ability to connect with audiences. He has proven that winning isn't everything and that true success comes from pursuing your passion and staying true to yourself.

5. Paris Bennett: The Young Talent

Paris Bennett, at just 17 years old during Season 5, showcased incredible vocal talent and maturity beyond her years. While she didn't win the competition, she left a lasting impression with her powerful voice and stage presence. After American Idol, Paris continued to pursue her music career. She released an album and has performed at various events. Paris has also been involved in acting and has appeared in a few films. Her versatility and dedication to her craft have allowed her to explore different avenues in the entertainment industry. Paris's journey has been one of growth and exploration. She has continued to hone her skills and develop her artistry. Her early success on American Idol paved the way for a promising career, and she continues to pursue her dreams with passion and determination.

6. Kellie Pickler: The Country Sweetheart

Kellie Pickler charmed America with her down-to-earth personality and country twang. Finishing in sixth place, Kellie quickly became a country music darling. After American Idol, she signed a record deal and released her debut album, "Small Town Girl," which was a commercial success. She has since released several albums and has had multiple hit singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Kellie has also appeared on television shows like "Dancing with the Stars," which she won, and has hosted her own talk show, "Pickler & Ben." In addition to her professional achievements, Kellie is also known for her philanthropic work, supporting various charities and causes. Her genuine personality and relatable nature have made her a beloved figure in the country music community. Kellie's success story is a testament to her talent, hard work, and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

7. Ace Young: The Romantic Singer

Ace Young brought a romantic vibe to Season 5 with his smooth vocals and charming personality. After finishing in seventh place, Ace pursued a career in music and songwriting. He has written songs for various artists and has also released his own music. Ace has also ventured into acting, appearing in Broadway's Grease. One of the most notable moments in Ace's post-Idol life was his relationship with fellow American Idol contestant Diana DeGarmo. They met while working on a Broadway show and eventually got married. Ace's career has been marked by his versatility and willingness to explore different avenues in the entertainment industry. He has continued to pursue his passion for music and has found success in songwriting, performing, and acting.

8. Bucky Covington: The Country Rocker

Bucky Covington brought a country-rock edge to Season 5 with his distinctive voice and energetic performances. After finishing in eighth place, Bucky released his self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single "A Different World." He has continued to release music and tour, staying true to his country-rock roots. Bucky has also been involved in various charitable endeavors, supporting causes close to his heart. His down-to-earth personality and genuine love for music have earned him a loyal fan base. Bucky's career has been one of consistency and dedication. He has remained true to his musical style and has continued to pursue his passion for performing.

9. Mandisa: The Gospel Powerhouse

Mandisa was a gospel powerhouse during Season 5, captivating audiences with her powerful voice and inspirational performances. After finishing in ninth place, Mandisa pursued a successful career in gospel music. She released several albums, which have earned her multiple Grammy nominations and one Grammy win. Mandisa has also been an advocate for body positivity and has shared her personal struggles with weight and self-esteem. She has used her platform to inspire others to embrace their true selves and to find strength in their faith. Mandisa's career has been marked by her commitment to spreading a message of hope, love, and acceptance. Her music and message have resonated with millions, making her a leading figure in the gospel music community. Sadly, Mandisa passed away in April 2024, leaving behind a legacy of faith and inspiration.

10. Lisa Tucker: The Young Talent

Lisa Tucker, another young talent from Season 5, impressed audiences with her versatile vocals and stage presence. After American Idol, Lisa pursued a career in music and acting. She has released music and has also appeared in various television shows and films. Lisa has continued to hone her skills and develop her artistry, exploring different genres and styles. Her early experience on American Idol provided her with a valuable platform to launch her career, and she continues to pursue her dreams with passion and determination.

So, there you have it! A look at what the Top 10 from American Idol Season 5 have been up to. It's amazing to see how they've grown and evolved since their Idol days. Each of them has taken different paths, but they all share a common bond: the experience of being on one of the biggest talent shows in the world. Keep rocking, guys!