It’s been 14 seasons since Kelly Clarkson was crowned the very first American Idol in the summer of 2002, and alumni of the show have gone on to win Oscars (Jennifer Hudson), Grammys (Carrie Underwood), American Music Awards (Chris Daughtry), and more. With the latest season of American Idol kicking off, Snakkle looks back at the Idols that didn’t win the big prize.

Part of being an entertainer is dealing with your style, weight and personal life being under the media’s microscope. These musicians in particular have been the subject of nasty blog posts and relentless paparazzi attention all because of their weight. But, on their own terms, they have trimmed down and toned up in an appropriate and healthy way. Take that haters! But seriously, don’t these ladies look great?

As another year of graduates look ahead with excitement for what the future will hold for them, you have to wonder who among them might be our next great actors, athletes, scholars, or even future presidents of the United States. You might be surprised at the humble (and remarkably fashion-awkward) graduation looks of some of today’s biggest movers and shakers. Snakkle wants to know if you can pick out some graduates that have most definitely succeeded.

In its 13 seasons, American Idol has showcased plenty of gems in the rough—and some radio-ready stars. But there have been a few truly great performances, the kind that stick with you years later. We look back at the show’s top star-making moments, and the future stars who gave them to us.

Snakkle looks back at the Emmy-nominated cast of The Big Bang Theory before they were nerds—er—stars.