The much-anticipated final premiere of TV’s long-running American Idol has come and gone. On the season 15 opener, airing Wednesday, January 6, viewers — along with judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. — caught a glimpse of some performers who may be among the last batch of finalists. Beginning with auditions in Atlanta and Denver, there was no shortage of drama or talent, not to mention an unexpected guest who’s known to some as Mr. Kim Kardashian.
It Began Somewhere
For every American Idol fan, the idea of the final season seems unreal. Thankfully, host Ryan Seacrest was able to take the episode’s viewers back to 2002, where the dreams began. From his short-lived time with a cohost on Idol‘s first season to some not-so-subtle mishaps, Seacrest made a legacy with the Fox singing competition, and this season should be no different.
All in Atlanta
Tonight’s first audition just happened to be from someone who has watched Idol since the beginning — no, literally. Fifteen-year-old Michelle Marie wowed the judges with her audition and, as her life has spanned the duration of the series, she can say she’s been a fan from the start. Michelle wasn’t the only talent in Atlanta, though. The best part? The judges got anxious and felt the need to stretch, including a seductive J. Lo lying on the table, which triggered the remark, “I’ve had the hots for you since your Fly Girl days,” from a not-so-lucky contestant, Billy, who didn’t wow the judges enough to make it to Hollywood. Word to the wise from J. Lo’s mouth: You may want to bring the talent, and leave the comments at home.
Deep in Denver
Denver may not seem like a melting pot for the unknown, but talent from here proved otherwise. Connick had luck in Denver finding his first potential season 15 contender, Sonika of Massachusetts. However, that wasn’t even his best memory in Denver because his heartbeat went heavy for one contestant, but not for the reason you might think. Being handcuffed by Officer Reanna Molinaro seemed to be a turning point for the fun in this city.
Things got hot and heavy when husband and wife Jordan and Alex Sasser came in together, with their baby. Long story short, Alex got a few noes, but Jordan made it to Hollywood week. Cameras panned to Alex as she expressed to Jordan, “I’ve never been good enough.”
Last But Never Least
Going out with a bang! Kanye West, with (at the time) pregnant wife Kardashian, crashed the Idol auditions, where West did an impromptu version of “Gold Digger.” It’s safe to say he’s going to Hollywood!
Tell Us: What did you think of the final season’s premiere?
American Idol airs on Fox Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m. EST.
