Kelly Clarkson was the first American Idol winner and took to social media to share her gratitude.

The singer and talk show host posted a photo of the night she won the reality singing competition on September 4, 2002, to thank everyone who has supported her since that winning moment.

“To everyone that took time 23 years ago to call in and vote for me, thank you,” Clarkson shared on Instagram. “Winning American Idol changed my life and I will be forever grateful for all of you that have supported me for so many years.”

She continued, “It is a gift to find your purpose and passion, and to be able to make a living doing it is the cherry on top. Thank you, always.”

After making the post, Clarkson received some messages from fans who would later become famous themselves, inspired by

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