Twenty-one years ago, Brian Dunkleman co-hosted his first season and only season of American Idol alongside Ryan Seacrest. He quit after the inaugural season ended, unaware that Idol would be one of the biggest singing competitions for years to come. Here’s a look back at why Dunkleman quit American Idol and how the decision affected him. Plus, find out what Dunkleman is up to today.
Brian Dunkleman on ‘American Idol’ in 2016 | Jason Laveris/FilmMagic Why Brian Dunkleman quit ‘American Idol’
American Idol enlisted Seacrest and Dunkleman to audition for the show’s co-hosting gig in 2002. At the time, Seacrest already had some TV hosting experience, having worked on shows like Radical Outdoor Challenge and Ultimate Revenge. Meanwhile, Dunkleman’s experience was in acting and stand-up comedy. He told GQ in 2019 that he wasn’t really interested in any hosting gigs at the time, but he auditioned because someone from Fox wanted him to.
Brian Dunkleman on ‘American Idol’ in 2016 | Jason Laveris/FilmMagic Why Brian Dunkleman quit ‘American Idol’
American Idol enlisted Seacrest and Dunkleman to audition for the show’s co-hosting gig in 2002. At the time, Seacrest already had some TV hosting experience, having worked on shows like Radical Outdoor Challenge and Ultimate Revenge. Meanwhile, Dunkleman’s experience was in acting and stand-up comedy. He told GQ in 2019 that he wasn’t really interested in any hosting gigs at the time, but he auditioned because someone from Fox wanted him to.
- 2/16/2023
- by Elise Nelson
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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