The BEST episodes of American Idol season 8

Every episode of American Idol season 8, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of American Idol season 8!

The smash reality series showcases wannabe pop stars competing for a record deal by crooning for a panel of judges. The judges review a performer's talent (or lack thereof), and at-home viewers then vote for their favorite potential star. The show helped launch the careers of such artists as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert.

Last Updated: 12/12/2024Network: ABC (US)Status: Continuing

7.20

5 votes

#1 - San Francisco Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 3 - Aired 1/20/2009

Domarna förflyttar sig till San Francisco förr att höra nästa grupp provsjunga.

6.94

32 votes

#2 - Top 36 Finalists Group 2 Results

Season 8 - Episode 15 - Aired 2/26/2009

6.75

4 votes

#3 - Top 2 Finalists Perform

Season 8 - Episode 39 - Aired 5/19/2009

The Top 2 Finalist perform. Both Adam Lambert and Kris Allen sing three songs: one song they sang before on the competition, one song chosen by 'Idol' creator Simon Fuller and the song that will be their first Single, co-written by judge Kara DioGuardi

6.71

7 votes

#4 - Phoenix Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 1 - Aired 1/13/2009

Season 8 begins as Simon, Paula and Randy are back to hear the auditions for this year's show.

6.67

3 votes

#5 - New York City And San Juan, PR Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 7 - Aired 1/29/2009

The final auditions take place as the judges head to New York City and then San Juan, PR. in search for the next American Idol.

6.50

4 votes

#6 - Kansas City Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 2 - Aired 1/14/2009

The auditions continue from Kansas City.

6.50

4 votes

#7 - Hollywood Round 1

Season 8 - Episode 8 - Aired 2/3/2009

With the auditions out of the way, now is the time to separate the good from the bad and to find the real talent that holds in the rooms. With the individuals hoping to make a name for themselves, who is going to outshine the rest and make it through to the next round?

6.50

4 votes

#8 - Top 36 Finalists Group 1 Results

Season 8 - Episode 13 - Aired 2/18/2009

6.33

3 votes

Season 8 - Episode 18 - Aired 3/5/2009

6.33

3 votes

#15 - Top 36 Finalists Group 1 Perform

Season 8 - Episode 12 - Aired 2/17/2009

6.33

3 votes

#16 - Hollywood Round 2

Season 8 - Episode 9 - Aired 2/4/2009

It is Group Week and no one is safe for this round of tough auditions. With many already to go, a twist forces them to separate and form new groups and make new friends. Which group is going to make it through to the next round and which are going home? The judges decide.

6.33

3 votes

#17 - Louisville Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 4 - Aired 1/21/2009

More than 10,000 hardy performers braved extremely hot and muggy weather and turned out for auditions for Season 8 of American Idol in Louisville.

6.25

4 votes

#18 - Jacksonville Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 5 - Aired 1/27/2009

12,000 hardy auditioners turned out in torrential rain in Jacksonville, Florida to sing for the chance to be on season 8 of American Idol.

6.25

4 votes

#19 - Salt Lake City Auditions

Season 8 - Episode 6 - Aired 1/28/2009

Thousands of hopeful auditioners streamed into Salt Lake City for their chance to show us that they have the talent to be the next American Idol.

6.06

32 votes

#20 - Hollywood Round 4

Season 8 - Episode 11 - Aired 2/11/2009

The contestants from all over the country have performed tirelessly in front of the judges and faced stiff competition while in Hollywood. Now it's time they reveal the Top 36 who will move on and have a chance at becoming this year's American Idol.

6.03

31 votes

#21 - Top 36 Finalists Group 2 Perform

This episode will end with 2 contestants being eliminated. Performances from disco week include Harry Casey, Thelma Houston and Freda Payne singing a medley of the genres gems. Also, season 7 runner up David Archuleta stops by to sing a song.