In the early days of the music industry, only a combination of hard work and luck could get musicians a recording contract—and even then, success was limited by the scope of a radio or record distribution deal. But thanks to the reality TV phenomenon, even an appearance on the American Idol competition can make you an instant superstar. Here are some of the show's most famous competitors and judges.
Browse notable choreographers such as Savion Glover, Martha Graham, and George Balanchine.
Browse notable dancers such as Rita Moreno, Josephine Baker, and Fred Astaire.
In a wide range of fields, Jewish Americans have made important contributions to American society. May has been designated Jewish American Heritage Month, providing an opportunity to reflect on the many accomplishments of Jewish Americans. Explore some of the Jewish American icons who have made their mark in entertainment, literature, politics and beyond.
Examine the judges of the popular singing competition show The X Factor, which has drawn comparisons to American Idol. Judges have included Simon Cowell, L.A. Reid, Nicole Scherzinger, Paula Abdul, Britney Spears, Cheryl Cole and more. Pick your favorite celebrity judge of The X Factor on Biography.com.
Meet famous people who were born in June. Russell Brand, Peter Dinklage, Paula Abdul, Johnny Depp, Marilyn Monroe, Alfred Kinsey, Anna Kournikova, Suze Orman, Michael Phelps, Dr. Ruth, and many more folks all share a June birthday.