Kelly Clarkson, who won the first season of “American Idol” in 2002, revealed on her daytime talk show that she never received the $1 million prize or the car she was promised for her victory, multiple news outlets report.
During Tuesday’s episode of “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” guest Rob Rausch, the season 4 winner of “The Traitors,” mentioned that he was still waiting to receive his $220,800 prize.
Ms. Clarkson said that in her case, the $1 million prize was not a cash payout but “a million dollars’ worth of investment” in her, which granted her a recording contract with RCA Records.
She also said she never received the car that was part of the grand prize, despite other “American Idol” winners and runners-up, such as Clay Aiken and Carrie Underwood, receiving cars.
Ms. Clarkson advised Mr. Rausch to turn his newfound fame into career opportunities.
After winning “American Idol,” Ms. Clarkson went on to sell hit records, become a judge on “The Voice” and start her own talk show.
• Juliet La Sala can be reached at jlasala@washingtontimes.com.
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