First first runner-up Justin Guarini

The very first first runner-up of American Idol is the curly haired Justin Guarini.

Justin is a native of Columbus, Georgia. His musical experience started when he joined Atlanta Boy Choir. Throughout his school years in Georgia, Justin was a member of the choir and theater. After being chosen in AI, he was offered a role in the Broadway production of 'The Lion King'. But Justin politely declined the offer and he continued his AI experience.

AI judge Simon Cowell once said to Justin "you know, it's a privileged when you do a competition like this and hear somebody undiscovered who has a voice like yours." After the grand finals night, Justin is the only AI contestant to appear on 'The Oprah Show'. Justin was praised by many broadsheets describing him as a 'revelation', 'easily the best performer'.

Justin never made his album during the height of his AI days. He released his self-titled album in 2003 the same time second season AI winner Ruben Studdard released his debut album. Justin's album didn't sell well not like of Kelly Clarkson's albums. He was ultimately dropped by his record label RCA but continued doing music under his own company, Justice Entertainment.

He made a movie with Kelly, 'From Justin to Kelly'. It was a so-so success. Justin declined once more, a much coveted role in the Broadway run of 'Good Vibrations' instead, he continued doing independent films and appearing in many television shows.

Finally, Justin made his Broadway debut in 2010 when he was cast as Carlos in the Broadway adaptation of 'Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown'. His next Broadway act was playing a part in 'American Idiot' from March, 2011 through its closing in April, 2011.

Today, Justin is still active in independent films and recordings. He is now married to his long time fiancee Reina Capodici and they have a son, William Neko Bell Guarini born on April, 2011. He is also active building houses for Habitat for Humanities, and a music education advocate.