Kelly Clarkson is taking a moment to look back at the moment that changed her life forever.
The singer marked the 23rd anniversary of her American Idol win with a heartfelt Instagram post, sharing gratitude for the fans who voted for her back in 2002.
“To everyone that took time 23 years ago to call in and vote for me, thank you. Winning American Idol changed my life and I will be forever grateful for all of you that have supported me for so many years,” Clarkson wrote alongside a throwback photo from the Season 1 finale.
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.”
The post, filled with reflection and appreciation, also marked Clarkson’s first social media update since the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.
The 43-year-old had been largely absent from the spotlight following his passing on Aug. 7 at age 48 after a private battle with cancer.
Clarkson and Blackstock shared two children together, daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Clarkson canceled her remaining August Las Vegas shows to focus on her family, writing to fans, “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
Despite their difficult divorce, finalized in 2022, sources shared that Clarkson spent much of her time helping to care for Blackstock during his illness.
She had also previously paused the opening of her Las Vegas residency in July and stepped away from The Kelly Clarkson Show in March to be present for her family.
Now, with her message of gratitude, Clarkson is signaling a fresh start.
She is set to return to daytime television when the seventh season of The Kelly Clarkson Show premieres on Sept. 29, once again stepping into the role that has made her one of TV’s most relatable and beloved hosts.
Her post serves as a reminder of how far she’s come since her life-changing American Idol win, and how the journey continues, both personally and professionally.