Simon Cowell reflects on surprising past relationship with Kelly Clarkson

Simon Cowell has opened up about the first season of American Idol, revealing that he always knew Kelly Clarkson was destined for stardom.

The 43-year-old pop star, who won the inaugural series back in 2002, left a lasting impression on the music mogul.

Speaking on the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast, Simon hailed the Stronger hitmaker, saying it was like a dream and that you couldn’t have asked for a more perfect winner.

“She’s an amazing person, incredible personality. And just this killer voice,” he said.

He admitted that finding the first winner was far from easy, and although many were talented, Kelly was the ideal choice.

Simon, who served as a judge on the hit TV show, revealed he had always believed the exceptional pop star was out there.

Meanwhile, Kelly has shared that she had no idea the show would even be televised nationally.

On the Not Gonna Lie podcast, she recalled, “We were literally trying to pay our bills. Nobody knew it was gonna amount to anything. 

I was 19, just trying to pay my electric bill and fix my car. It was hard.”

Despite the challenges, the Catch My Breath singer’s American Idol journey catapulted her to global fame, and she and Simon remain close friends to this day.

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