The final showdown was between Justin Guarini, one of the early favorites, and Kelly Clarkson. Clarkson was not initially thought of as a contender, but impressed the judges with some good performances in the final rounds, such as her performance of Aretha Franklin's "Natural Woman", and Betty Hutton's "Stuff Like That There", and eventually won the crown on September 4, 2002. COUNT 6
QSN1 What year did Kelly Clarkson win? ANS1 2002 QSN2 Who was the runner up to Kelly Clarkson? ANS2 Justin Guarini QSN3 What month did Kelly Clarkson win? ANS3 September QSN4 Of the final two, which was an early favorite to win? ANS4 Justin Guarini QSN5 Who won the first season of American Idol? ANS5 Kelly Clarkson QSN6 When did Clarkson win the crown? ANS6 September 4, 2002