American Idol Season One -- Justin Guarini

Justin Guarini, the 29-year-old first runner-up from American IdolSeason One, is known for his kind personality and curly hair, which he now has hidden underneath a wig. There was no doubt he could sing, but more American Idol fans voted for Kelly Clarkson than they did for Justin Guarini. In 2003, RCA Records let Justin Guarini go when his debut CD, Justin Guarini, failed miserably. Not only did RCA Records ditch Justin, but American Idol let him down as well. However, Justin Guarini told MTV News he had no hard feelings and still watches the show. "It was one of those things where everything happened the way it needed to happen, and it may sound pie-in-the-sky, but it's really true. I'm so grateful because it got me to this point with my new album, and I don't have to deal with a lot of the same pressures and a lot of the same contractual obligations that a lot of other people have to deal with coming off of that show. It is a win/win for me," he added.

In addition to Justin Guarini's debut CD, he starred in the 2003 movie From Justin to Kelly, which was also unsuccessful. In fact, From Justin to Kelly won the 2005 Razzie Award for the worst musical.

Justin Guarini's failures led him to a point where he threw his hands up and called it quits, but after a brief vacation (literally), he began to do charity work and performed at several benefits. That work seemed to give Justin the persistence he needed to try again. Therefore, in December of 2005, Justin Guarini released his second album, Stranger Things Have Happened, which he and Greg Gordon Smith produced.

One year after the release of Stranger Things Have Happened, Justin Guarini made a guest appearance on Idol Chat. Furthermore, in January 2007, Justin Guarini received an invitation to co-host Idol Chat, which he graciously accepted. In addition to Idol Chat, he's also the co-host and red carpet correspondent for Idol Tonight.

Some of Justin Guarini's movie and television credits include Frankie the Squirrel (2007), Tilt-a-Whirl (2005), Run of the House (2003), American Idol Rewind (2006), Hollywood Squares (2004), On-Air with Ryan Seacrest (2004), Soul Train (2003) and several others.

Justin Guarini seems to be making a comeback. Sources have said that this American Idol Season One first runner-up is now working on his third album, starring in a romantic comedy (Fast Girl), has plans to create a book, a new show and a clothing line, and it seems he also has a girlfriend. No, his girlfriend isn't Kelly Clarkson; however, the sources also said he reported to them that he still keeps in touch with Kelly via e-mail.

Sources:

American Idol Worship

Justin Guarini's Official Website

MTV News

The Internet Movie Database