Phillip Phillips, the 21-year-old pawn shop worker from Leesburg, Ga. is the new “American Idol.” Phillip received more viewer votes than 16-year-old Jessica Sanchez of Chula Vista, Calif. Last year’s winner, Scotty McCreery, handed the trophy over.
His victory extended the “American Idol” winning streak for males to five consecutive seasons. The last female to win was 17-year-old Jordin Sparks in 2007.
Also last night:
Jennifer Lopez debuted her new single, “Going In.” Aerosmith performed. Rihanna sizzled. There were tributes to Donna Summer and Robin Gibb. All of the finalists got to sing with previous Idol champs and a musical legend. Phillip got to jam with Creedence Clearwater Revival’s John Fogerty on “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” and “Bad Moon Rising.” Original “Dreamgirls” star Jennifer Holliday joined forces with Jessica on “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” Skylar Laine performed “Turn on the Radio” with Reba McEntire..
Joshua Ledet was joined by his “biggest inspiration,” Fantasia Barrino; Chaka Khan performed “I’m Every Woman” with the top girls; and Neil Diamond lead the final guys, in “Sweet Caroline.”
Two former ‘Idol’ contestants got engaged: Ace Young asked Diana DeGarmo to marry him.
