Last night, the final episode of "American Idol" aired after 15 seasons and 14 years on TV. While the fabulous La'Porsha Renae didn't win the top prize (but she STILL copped a record deal!), it was still a night worth watching as many of your faves returned to where it all started for them. Get it all inside...
Season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino returned to the "Idol" stage last night showing off all the body work she's been putting in:
We were introduced to the powerhouse singer twelve years ago (yes, it's been THAT long) when she sang her heart out as a young single mother from North Carolina. The Broadway performer, singer, actress and Grammy winner reminded folks why she won:
The mom of two and new wife joined powerhouse singers Jennifer Hudson (who actually lost during season 3) and LaToya London to sing "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and "Remember The Music." Work ladies!
She performed her new song "Ugly". Check it:
Hottie Jordin Sparks is all grown up after becoming the youngest "Idol" winner in history (at 17) during Season 6. The now 26-year-old hit the carpet last night in this cute two-piece Fe Noel look showing off that hot new bod of hers:
When you move on from an ex and happy as pie...
Jordin also hit the stage with Season 1 runner up Justin Guarini:
Get it!
Also on the carpet:
Judge Jennifer Lopez brought the dramatics in this gorgeous gold gown. She also hit the stage to perform her new song "Ain't Your Mama".
Ruben Studdard is still here and still sangin'. The Season 2 winner took the stage with Season 12 contestant Amber Holcomb last night.
Remember Kimberley Locke from season 2? The fab chick made her return last night too and performed with others. Is it just us, or does she and "The Fab Life" co-host Lauren Makk look like sisters?
The hosts took the stage one final time:
Backstage, Fanny caught up with WWE superstar John Cena and his WWE Divas superstar girlfriend Nikki Bella:
And look who it is. Clay and Ruben!
Apparently, former judges Mariah and Nicki Minaj couldn't be bothered. They were both busy performing elsewhere.
Check out President Obama's message, which aired during the show, where he congratulates the show on transforming TV, and notes that voting in the American political process should be equally as easy as voting for "Idol," so "we're working on that."
As for the ratings, they jumped to their best since 2012.
Ruben, Fanny and Justin all hit "GMA" this morning as well via live video. Nice.
Did you catch last night's finale?
Photos: Instagram/Getty
