DAVID COOK

Coming from Blue Spring, Missouri David Cook didn't plan to try out for "American Idol," let alone win the competition. Born on December 20, 1982, in Houston, Texas, this talented young man started performing in school plays and musicals. He formed the band Axium during his junior year in high school and was the lead singer and guitarist.

His big break came in Omaha, Nebraska, when his younger brother Andrew tried out for "American Idol." He didn't make it to the Hollywood round but David did. With Andrew's urging, David's whole life changed in a matter of months. America spoke and the rest is history.

Fun Facts:

• David won "American Idol" by 12 million votes!

• David was a member of Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity at Central Missouri State University.

• He really likes crossword puzzles.