Tonight, America will vote off another contestant on "American Idol," leaving just two hopefuls left to compete for the title. While the winner will be dubbed America's choice, the second place finisher will also gain access to a special place in our collective hearts. Past runner-ups such as Clay Aiken and Katharine McPhee have managed to go on to successful music careers despite their inability to win on "Idol."
Of course, none can compare to the original runner-up, Justin Guarini. Justin lost to pop sensation Kelly Clarkson in the final episode of Season 1. But in no way has this affected what turned out to be a lengthy and awe-inspiring career. Sure, competing on "American Idol" was the start to Guarini's fame, but it certainly wasn't the end.
Here are Justin's top ten accomplishments since "American Idol"...
10) Released three albums... yes, three
After his 1999 breakout The Midnight Voices, Guarini unleashed a self-titled 2003 mammoth hit, as well as the critically-acclaimed and appropriately-titled Stranger Things Have Happened in 2005.
9) Appeared on "Oprah" - Oprah told him, "Justin, you have it"
The approval of Oprah is a Midas touch for any up and coming star, ensuring a long and fruitful career...
...
...
Usually.
8) Became the spokesperson for Calm-a-Sutra Tea
The competition was heavy amongst afro'd celebrity spokespersons, but with his silky smooth voice and obvious sex appeal to the tea-drinking demographic, he was able to beat out the likes of prop comedian Carrot Top and raspy-voiced R&B singer Macy Gray.
7) Finished 2nd in the hovercraft game in "From Justin to Kelly"
Sure, there were only 2 people competing in the game, but Justin's runner-up performance left a lasting impression with co-star Kelly Clarkson. He may have been stripped of his title as "Mayor of Spring Break;" However, Guarini got the girl at the end of the movie, and was linked romantically to Clarkson in the media.
Guarini's post-game love song certainly helped the cause:
6) Was a featured vocalist on the jazz fusion album Foreign Shores by David Hughes
Not surprisingly, this album went ten times platinum in the U.S. alone, shattering the previous record for jazz fusion albums by at least 1,000%.
5) Performed on "The View" and "The Wayne Brady Show" on the same day
June 19th, 2003. That is the day when Justin Guarini entertained the entire middle-aged women demographic in a mere 2-hour span.
4) Made this top ten list
No, but seriously.
3) Broke down racial barriers
A multi-racial individual himself, Justin Guarini did great things for black and white people alike. Not only did he perform at an NAACP Summit, but he also helped to end the dangerous "white fro" trend that was threatening the very core of society.
2) Appeared in 2005 movie Tilt-A-Whirl as "Customer #4"
Assumedly this was a leading role in a blockbuster film.
1) Won several awards for his acting abilities
Not only did Justin win the Teen Choice Awards for "Choice Movie Breakout Star" and "Choice Movie Chemistry," he also took home the Razzies for "Worst Actor" and "Worst Screen Couple."
In addition, his movie From Justin to Kelly won the Razzie for "Worst Musical in 25 Years" and was nominated for several others, including "Worst Picture," "Worst Remake or Sequel," and "Worst Excuse for an Actual Movie."
It's true, Justin Guarini is living the dream. Though "American Idol" may have been his springboard to success, it's clear he was destined for stardom all along.
Honorable Mention
-Turned down a guest role on "Friends," a role in "The Fast and the Furious" (the TV show, not the movie), and a modeling job for Tommy Hilfiger due to contractual obligations.
-Is a recurring commentator for the Style Channel.
-The day he was born. October 28, 1978. When the legend began.
[A TomZ-Intern Joint]
