American Idol mainstay Ryan Seacrest has no intention of leaving the series, but if he ever does decide to give up the gig, there are some AI alums who would be perfect for the job. In his role, Ryan emcees the live shows, and also serves as a system for the auditioning contestants. He chats with them before they enter the audition room, and Ryan's there when they come out with their results. He helps them to celebrate, or consoles them.
Although Ryan is currently hosting American Idol season 21, it is possible that he will eventually decide to hand the reins to someone else. After 20 seasons of competition, there are plenty of American Idol finalists who could host the singing competition. Many of the contestants have already taken on hosting roles in other projects, so they have relevant experience. Here are some American Idol alums who could fill Ryan's shoes.
10 Kelly Clarkson - Season 1
Kelly's an obvious choice to host American Idol. The OG winner has built the most successful music career of any contestant in the show's history. However, her achievements on her talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, are what make her the most qualified to helm AI. Since The Kelly Clarkson Show began, Kelly has won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host, season after season. Her series also won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show in 2021 and 2022. The bubbly host Kelly has found perfect balance, as she's entertaining, but doesn't overpower her guests.
9 Justin Guarini - Season 1
American Idol season 1 runner-up Justin was always known for his charming personality, in addition to his incredible vocal talent. He has gone on to star in several Broadway shows, which has given him even more experience in front of live audiences. It's essential that the American Idol host can improvise on live television, and having live theater credits would help him to do that. Justin has served as the host of many shows, including TV Guide Network's Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight. He has also covered the Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Awards. With his kind demeanor and natural pizzazz, Justin could be a wonderful American Idol host.
8 Clay Aiken - Season 2
Clay placed second on American Idol season 2, and has been a household name ever since. In 2004, he hosted the television special, A Clay Aiken Christmas. He's also been a special correspondent for Insider, and a guest host on several talk shows, including Live with Regis and Kelly. Clay even won the 2014 House of Representatives Democratic primary in North Carolina, proving that he has a winning personality that still captivates people. He also has experience performing live, due to his concerts and time on Broadway.
7 Jennifer Hudson - Season 3
American Idol season 3 finalist Jennifer is still ed as the contestant who went home too early. Viewers fell in love with her personality and stunning vocal talents, but she only placed seventh on the season. She later won the Academy Award for Best ing Actress, for her role as Effie White in Dreamgirls. She's had music and acting success throughout the years. In 2022, Jennifer became the host of her own talk show, The Jennifer Hudson Show. Her gentle and calm manner is similar to Ryan's, and she would be kind to the auditioning contestants. Jennifer would also command the stage as the host of the live shows.
6 Taylor Hicks - Season 5
Taylor's fan base, known as the Soul Patrol, catapulted him to the top of American Idol season 5. He won the season with his stellar vocals and energetic performances. Taylor went on to gain even more live performance experience through his concerts and Broadway appearances. He was the host of the INSP channel's culinary show, State Plate, during which he introduced viewers to iconic dishes from each state in America. Taylor would breathe new life into American Idol if he hosted, due to his fun and unpredictable personality.
5 Jordin Sparks - Season 6
American Idol season 6 winner Jordin is one of the most successful contestants ever, winning the show at age 17. She has since appeared on Broadway, and served as the in-stadium host for the 2023 Super Bowl. Jordin has also been a red carpet co-host for the American Music Awards. In addition, she has guest hosted Fashion Police, E! News, and The View. Jordin returned to live television as a contestant on Dancing With The Stars season 31. She has an effervescent personality that lights up any stage on which she appears. Jordin would sparkle as the host of American Idol.
4 David Cook - Season 7
David won American Idol season 7. With his intelligence and musical talent, he was able to twist any song into a rock anthem. David's musical expertise would make him a knowledgeable American Idol host. He's been very loyal to the show, making several return appearances through the years. They included him serving as an American Idol season 20 mentor, and singing a duet with season 8 winner, Kris Allen. They performed during "The Great Idol Reunion." With his extensive live performance experience, including his concerts and Broadway, David would take the live shows by storm.
3 Lauren Alaina - Season 10
American Idol season 10 runner-up Lauren was known for her spunky personality, which would be perfect for the host of the show. In 2022, she hosted the Academy of Country Music's '57th ACM Awards' Radio special. Her March 2022 interview with Dolly Parton showed her ability to give her guest the spotlight, while also highlighting her own personality. In addition, Lauren delights fans at her concerts, proving that she can hold an audience in the palm of her hand.
2 Catie Turner - Season 16
Catie Turner placed seventh on American Idol season 16. She was known for her quirky personality and big vocals. Catie's audition was the very first one to be aired when American Idol was rebooted by ABC. She represents the next generation of the show, and could be an ideal host because of this. Her ability to remain fully herself throughout the competition was very appealing. Catie could help guide new contestants to do the same.
1 HunterGirl - Season 20
American Idol season 20 runner-up HunterGirl received the first ever platinum ticket. She was an incredible country singer with a heart of gold. She worked with veterans, helping them to turn their stories into songs. HunterGirl is used to helping people, which would make her a fantastic American Idol host. She also has extensive experience playing live shows, so she could handle being in charge on live television.
Although Ryan is an American Idol legend, it is comforting to know that, if he ever decides to leave, there are several show alums who could take his place. AI finalists have proven that they are not only some of the world's most talented singers, but charismatic personalities who could carry shows in host roles as well. It's intriguing to imagine the possibilities for the future of American Idol.
American Idol airs Sundays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.