Jordin Sparks is the new American Idol, beating Blake Lewis.

Interestingly, at 17, Jordin is the youngest Idol winner. After host Ryan Seacrest announced the winner, Jordin got quite emotional. The teenager hails from Glendale, Arizona, and is the daughter of former National Football League player Phillippi Sparks.

The two-hour special show saw great performances from Gwen Stefani, Kelly Clarkson (who had won the first Idol title five years ago) among others.

Idol favourite Sanjaya Malakar, along with the other finalists, also performed at the show.

Besides the Idol title, Seacrest also presented the Golden Idol award for the most eccentric contestants. Big Bird impersonator Margaret Fowler bagged the award, and showed her gratitude by kissing Seacrest on stage.