Justin Guarini
The runner-up during the very first season of American Idol, Justin Guarini was a fan favorite who has since released several albums. Raised by his mother (a journalist) and his stepfather, Guarini began his singing career at the tender age of four when he was accepted into the prestigious Atlanta Boy Choir. When his family relocated to Pennsylvania, the state in which he spent most of his childhood, he joined the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Boys Choir. He sang in all of his school choirs over the years and performed in Midnight Voices, an a cappella group that won several awards and produced an independent album in 1999. Guarini also performed in numerous stage plays and musicals throughout high school and college.
Guarini studied at both the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and the School for Film and Television in New York City. Before he auditioned for American Idol, he worked on Broadway and was even recruited for the master classes of the cast of The Lion King. He had received an offer to sign with an independent record label as well.
Guarini staked his claim as one of the most promising Idol contestants during auditions. His performances earned him much praise and many votes, ensuring him a place in the finals. Although he lost to Kelly Clarkson, many critics considered him to be the best performer on the show. He was the first contestant to be invited to appear on the Oprah Winfrey show.
Because of his contract stipulations, Guarini wasn't allowed to pursue any personal projects until a certain period of time after Clarkson's album dropped. Unfortunately, this meant that he was forced to turn down several TV guest star and movie roles, as well as Broadway and modeling opportunities. The timing of his self-tiled debut album coincided with the release of the critically panned film From Justin to Kelly, and the single releases from the second season finalists from American Idol. Guarini was eventually dropped by RCA, and he himself severed ties with Fuller's 19 Management as soon as he was legally allowed. His second album Stranger Things Have Happened was independently released to much critical acclaim.
Guarini has transitioned his career from music to acting and television. He has been a part of the TV Guide Network since 2007, most notably as host of their Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight shows. He’s also been involved in the channel’s live awards show coverage. He made his Broadway debut in 2010, playing the role of Carlos in the musical adaptation of the Pedro Almodovar film Women on the Edge of a Nervous Breakdown.
Justin Guarini Official Website
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