The show that turns awkward pimply-faced teenagers into pop culture icons, American Idol has become a prime time institution. Thanks to Idol, Ryan Seacrest has been minted the Dick Clark of a new generation and Simon Cowell, the Darth Vader of talent competitions. Still going strong after eight seasons of star making and dream crushing, Idol has unearthed such talents as Clay Aiken, Kelly Clarkson, Adam Lambert and William Hung.