Mt. Prospect, Illinois, paint salesman Lee DeWyze has bested Ohio’s Crystal Bowersox to become the ninth American Idol.
The crowning caps a surprising run for DeWyze, who started as a shy, somewhat awkward performer, before gathering confidence and support with each performance, and culminating in a standout rendition of Leonard Cohen classic “Hallelujah” last week.
Many had tabbed Bowersox with her powerful bluesy vocals as this year’s favorite, but DeWyze road the wave of the underdog, capturing the title.
“I have never been happier in my life,” said an emotional DeWyze.
Past Idols – as well as former judge Paula Abdul – returned to give Cowell an emotional sendoff on his last appearance on the show.
DeWyze’s cover version of U2’s hit “Beautiful Day” will be released as his first single.