See the Emotional Message Kelly Clarkson Wrote to Fans on Instagram

In June 2002, American Idol aired its first season and since then, it's been an American mainstay. Despite cast changes and some wins that we would've never seen coming, there's nothing like tuning in to witness someone become a superstar. Heck, the show gave us some of today's biggest voices like Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson (she should've won, but we'll save that for a different day), and of course, the OG idol herself, Kelly Clarkson!

That first year, we were introduced to a 20-year-old Texas girl with thick hair highlights, powerful voice, and the epitome of peak 2000s fashion. Fast-forward 20 years later and that star in the making is now an award-winning songwriter, author, AND television host. Despite the fame, Kelly's kept that down-to-earth personality, and she thanked fans for supporting her along the way in an emotional Instagram captioned with hearts.

She began by penning, "20 years ago today I won American Idol and it forever changed the course of my life. That moment was the door that opened up so much access and opportunity, and creative partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days."

Kelly's caption tapped into fans' special memories and took people on a trip down memory lane. Fans left sweet comments on the singer's emotional post like:

• "I was 9 years old and called in to vote for you every week!!! I had to sneak downstairs to use the phone😂"

• "Still remember voting for you❤️"

• "This moment represented so much for so many of us. Thank you for always being the girl from Burleson who I stayed up voting for via my landline phone in 4th grade. Best decision I ever made. 💗💗💗💗"

She continued by writing, "We only get so many trips around the sun and while I am proud and feel abundantly blessed of the successes and failures that I have learned from, I am most proud and grateful for those friends that have become family."

The "Since U Been Gone" singer didn't name names, but we can't help but think that she's referring to the original three American Idol judges in part. Even when Simon, Paula and Randy visited Kelly on her talk show, they were the first to admit that if it wasn't for Kelly's success, the show wouldn't have been the hit that it is today.

Kelly wrapped her emotional message by thanking fans who supported her and as one of those thousands of callers who voted for her in 2002, it's crazy to see how time flies!

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