Kelly Clarkson shares touching note to mark 20th anniversary of 'American Idol' win
Clarkson became the first winner of "American Idol" in 2002.
Kelly Clarkson may now be a Grammy-winning singer and an Emmy-winning talk show host, but she'll always be known as the very first "American Idol" winner.
On the 20th anniversary of her historic win -- Sept. 4, 2002 -- Clarkson took to her socials to reflect on what a moment like that -- pun intended -- meant to her.
"20 years ago today I won American Idol and it forever changed the course of my life," she wrote in a note shared on Sunday. "That moment was the door that opened up so much access and opportunity, and the creative partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days."
Clarkson went on to praise "the family and friendships I have created over these 20 years in music and TV."
"I am most proud and grateful for those friends that have become family, and for their arms that have held me when I needed it and their hearts that listened to me when I felt lost," she said.
The star then thanked "every single person that voted 20 years ago," repeating "thank you!" three times.
She wrapped up her note expressing her hope that all those voters "have people in your lives that fill you with laughter, and hope, and happiness."
"If you don't feel like you have that, then keep searching because I promise they're looking for you too," she concluded.
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