American Idol (season 5) American Idol (season 5) The fifth season of reality television singing competition "American Idol" began on January 17, 2006, and concluded on May 24, 2006. Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell returned to judge, and Ryan Seacrest returned to host. It is the most successful season to date ratings-wise, and resulted in 18 contestants (including all of the top 10 and a few semifinalists) getting record deals – nine of them with major labels. It was the first season with a male winner (Taylor Hicks) and a female runner-up (Katharine McPhee). It was also the first season of the
The American Idol Experience Talent", winning a contract to Simon Cowell's "Syco" label. Thirteenth season finalists Majesty Rose, Ben Briley, and Emily Piriz all won Dream Tickets at the attraction. Fourteenth season semi-finalist Adam Ezegelian was a two-time Dream Ticket winner (2009 and 2014). 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