Lee DeWyze Wins American Idol

It’s official: Lee DeWyze has won American Idol. The paint salesman from Illinois won over the early favorite, Crystal Bowersox. The show’s ratings have suffered this season—perhaps from what was considered middling talent. This season, Idol pundits have largely called Bowersox the more talented performer. The finale was dedicated to Simon Cowell, who will leave the show after this season—all the past Idol winners (except David Cook) sang to Cowell. Former judge Paula Abdul also delivered a rambling tribute to him. Janet Jackson, Joe Cocker, Christina Aguilera, Alanis Morissette, Hall and Oates, the Bee Gees, and Carrie Underwood were among the performers during the show’s two-hour finale.