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'American Idol': And the Winner Is...

Lee DeWyze takes his throne as the next American Idol! See the contestants who gave him a run for his money this season (11 Photos)

Jennifer Graham Kizer on May 26, 2010 at 11:08PM

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Fox

Lee DeWyze
WINNER!

Age: 23
Hometown: Mount Prospect, Ill.

A low-key singer-songwriter with a gravely voice, DeWyze has self-released two albums while supporting himself as a paint-store clerk. Whether he's singing mellow or rocking out, he exudes a vulnerability that comes off as sweet -- or just plain nervous. "I really like you as a person," Simon told him. "What’s always held you back, I think, is your personality. Because you don’t shine at the moment…The frustrating thing is that you have got an incredible voice."

Why He Won: He was the underdog from the beginning, but as the numbers dwindled DeWyze came out of his shell and really let his personality shine along with his radio-ready voice. Plus, his sweet smile and endearing modesty no doubt encouraged his young, female fans.