American Idol winner David Cook (WENN image)

American Idol winner David Cook speaks out

Thursday, 22 May 2008

David Cook is officially the happiest guy on the planet today after winning American Idol 2008. 97 million people voted and David won by a clear 12 million votes.

The seventh Idol winner immediately thanked his fans: "Thank you guys. This is amazing. Thank you."

Not only did David Cook clinch the title but he also made Simon Cowell admit that he was wrong. Just before Ryan Seacrest announced who had won Simon told both Davids "I want to congratulate both of you.

"It wasn't quite so clear as we called it. In fact, David Cook, I will take this opportunity to apologize because I think I was verging on disrespectful with you and I don't think you deserve that."

Paula Abdul added: "It's odd that it's called the finale when it's anything but a final. It's the start of the destiny of your career."

American Idol judge Paula Abdul (WENN image)

A whole host of stars and former winners of American Idol watched the Davids do battle. Paula Abdul led the way in the glamour stakes in her bright red dress, followed by former Idol winner Jordin Sparks in a white floor length gown and Desperate Housewives actress Teri Hatcher in a black pencil skirt and shimmering white top.

Former American Idol Jordin Sparks (WENN image)

During the two hour marathon show several top singers and bands performed including Carrie Underwood, George Michael and the Jonas Brothers. The best performance of the night however came from David Cook when he sang Regie Hamm's The Time of My Life."

Former American Idol Carrie Underwood (WENN image)