American Idol (season 8) American Idol (season 8) The eighth season of "American Idol" premiered on January 13, 2009, and concluded on May 20, 2009. Judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson continued to judge the show's contestants, along with Ryan Seacrest as host. The season introduced Kara DioGuardi as the fourth judge on the "Idol" panel. It was also Abdul's final season as a judge. Kris Allen, a native of Conway, Arkansas, was announced the winner of the competition on May 20, 2009, defeating runner-up Adam Lambert after nearly 100 million votes. This was the second season where both of the final
The American Idol Experience The American Idol Experience The American Idol Experience was a theme park attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. Inspired by the popular American television series "American Idol", the attraction invited park guests to audition in front of live audiences who would vote for their favorite singers. The attraction was announced on February 7, 2008, although specifics were not made public at that time. "American Idol" season six winner Jordin Sparks unveiled its official name and projected opening date during the "American Idol" season seven finale on May 21, 2008. Disney licensed the show's logos and