Photo Credit: FOX

Carly Smithson

Age:

24

Hometown:

San Diego, CA

Originally from Ireland, this young talent already has an album to her name. Under the name Carly Hennessy, Smithson released Ultimate High in 2001 with backing from now-defunct MCA Records.

Fun fact:

One of the cuts from her debut album, "Just Missed the Train," was also included on season one Idol champ Kelly Clarkson's debut disc.

Fans may remember Smithson from her season five appearance. Earning a golden ticket to the season's Hollywood round, she was disqualified when her VISA failed to be approved in time to compete. When season seven came around, Smithson gave it another go, performing "I'm Every Woman" for the judges in her hometown of San Diego. "Everything's been, like, right in front of me — I just haven't been able to hold on to it," Smithson admitted during her audition.

Smithson also owns a tattoo shop with her husband.