More than 28 million television viewers watched as 23-year-old Arkansas native Kris Allen was named the 2009 winner of American Idol. Kris, who throughout the season was called a dark horse and an underdog, edged favorite adam Lambert as nearly 100 million people cast their votes during the eighth season finale.

With this entry into the Dream Big: American Idols Superstars series, you can follow Kris's journey from a singer who saw little to no screen time during early episodes to the man who won over the hearts of America. Find out how his brother, Daniel, saved him from missing his audition. Follow along as he belts out his now-famous renditions of "Ain't No Sunshine," "Falling Slowly," "Apologize," and "Heartless." Read what the Idol judges and other music experts really thought about his performances and learn what the future holds for kris Allen, the 2009 American Idol.