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Clay Aiken Biography

Birth Name:Clay Holmes Grissom

Birth Place:Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

Profession Soundtrack, Actor

Fast Facts

  • Graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a degree in special education
  • Was offered a recording contract with RCA after his season of "American Idol" and released his debut album, "Measure of a Man," in 2003
  • Starred in the Broadway musical production of "Monty Python's Spamlot" as Sir Robin in 2008
  • Best known as the runner-up of the second season of "American Idol․"
  • Ran for Congress in North Carolina in 2014, ultimately losing the seat to the Republican candidate, Renee Ellmers
  • Published his bestselling memoir, "Learning to Sing: Hearing the Music in Your Life," in 2004

Awards

  • 2003Teen Choice Award-Choice TV Reality/Variety Star - Male: nominated