American Idol fans followed Taylor Hicks’ journey as he competed through and ultimately won the show’s fifth season. Recently, he looked back on his life since then with a message for fans. He also shared some advice for other would-be “idols.”
Taylor Hicks Went From American Idol To Broadway To Las Vegas
Hicks first rose to fame after competing on the fifth season of American Idol in 2006. Ultimately winning the season, he ended up signing to Arista Records.
In 2008, Hicks performed on Broadway, joining the cast of Grease, appearing as Teen Angel, joining the 18-month national tour. He later became the first Idol winner to secure a long-term residency at a Las Vegas casino. For three seasons, he also hosted the INSP channel’s State Plate.
Hicks recently spoke with Fox News Digital about his life after winning the competition series. Wanting to give advice to fans who also have reality show dreams, he shared that, when it comes to the life and career he has developed, it isn’t as easy as it looks.
Hicks explained, “It is a lot tougher than it seems. I think opportunity creates luck. But with a little faith and a little luck, you can accomplish your dreams.”
When thinking of advice his younger self could have used, Hicks shared, “Twenty years is a long time to be in show business, but if I could look back and somebody would tell me some advice, I would probably say, ‘Be patient and trust in God.’” One trait that my parents taught me and my values is to stay grounded and make sure that you are nice to others. Karma’s a real thing, so be nice, be sweet, and be happy.”
Hicks Noted That Competition Shows Are A Different Battlefield Than When He Won Idol
Hicks also thought of the lessons he’s learned from his family and how it impacted him throughout his life. “One trait that my parents taught me and my values is to stay grounded and make sure that you are nice to others,” he said, “Karma’s a real thing, so be nice, be sweet and be happy.”
Notably, Hicks spent years building a career beyond American Idol, having spent years performing locally long before trying his luck with the reality show. However, he felt that he also had the luck to audition when he did, feeling that things are very different for aspiring musicians these days.
Hicks previously told the outlet, “Luckily for me, ‘American Idol’ was the only game in town. I think the last talent show that was on television was ‘Star Search.’ And once ‘Idol’ became so successful, I think ‘America’s Got Talent,’ ‘So You Think You Can Dance.’ There’s all these entities that kind of popped up that you really have to compete for now. So, I think it is tougher for contestants on shows like that, because they’re kind of spreading the love.” All in all, looking at the climate of reality television now, Hicks ultimately shared that he was grateful for all that the show had done for him.
What is your reaction to Taylor Hicks’ recent share? Have you been following this story? Are you keeping up with American Idol? Make sure you come back to TV Shows Ace for all the latest reality TV and celebrity news.
John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.
