'American Idol' crowns a winner.

AuthorElber, Lynn
PositionLiving

Byline: Lynn Elber

LOS ANGELES -- Big-voiced rocker Caleb Johnson is the season 13 "American Idol,'' winning the title over teenage pop singer Jena Irene.

"This is crazy," Johnson said after host Ryan Seacrest announced the TV audience's decision on Wednesday's season finale of the Fox contest.

Johnson, 23, of Asheville, North Carolina, and Irene, 17, of Farmington Hills, Michigan, told each other "you da bomb" before the result was revealed.

Runner-up Irene is getting a consolation prize: The two competitors and friends are set to attend her high school prom, Seacrest said.

Seacrest did not announce the number of votes cast, as was routine when the show drew huge audiences and impressive vote tallies. "American Idol," which long reigned as TV's top-rated show, now is a moderately successful, top 20 performer.

Johnson's win came on the strength of his renditions Tuesday of "Dream On," "Maybe I'm Amazed" and "As Long as You Love Me," intended as his first single. Irene sang "Dog Days Are Over," "Can't Help Falling in Love" and "We Are One."

He is to receive a recording contract as this season's champion.

The two-hour finale included performances by John Legend, Kiss, Demi Lovato and Lady Antebellum. It also showcased a song by...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT