Carrie Marie Underwood, the multi-Grammy-winning country music sensation, continues to reign supreme nearly two decades after captivating audiences and claiming victory on season four of American Idol. At 41, Underwood remains a powerhouse in the music industry, with a discography and career that few other contestants have matched since she took home the title in 2005.

Born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Underwood’s journey to stardom wasn’t always clear-cut. After graduating high school, she initially set aside her dream of a singing career, opting instead to pursue higher education. She attended Northeastern State University, where she earned her degree in mass communications, graduating magna cum laude. But fate had other plans, and a life-changing audition for American Idol shifted her path forever.

During her time on Idol, Underwood quickly emerged as a frontrunner. Judges, particularly the notoriously critical Simon Cowell, praised her talent, and her performances consistently wowed both audiences and voters. Her popularity soared, as evidenced by her weekly dominance in viewer voting. By the season finale on May 25, 2005, American Idol was one of the most-watched programs in the country, with over 30 million people tuning in to see Underwood crowned champion over runner-up Bo Bice. Following her win, her debut single, “Inside Your Heaven,” shot to number one on the charts, setting the stage for an extraordinary career.

Underwood’s debut marked only the beginning of an impressive streak of hits on the country and pop charts. Over the years, she has released multiple chart-topping albums, each one leaving an indelible mark. From her early successes with “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats” to later hits like “Blown Away” and “Something in the Water,” Underwood’s catalog reads like a greatest-hits list. Her consistent success has earned her a remarkable 17 American Music Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, and 16 Academy of Country Music Awards, cementing her legacy as a true icon in country music.

Underwood has also shown a unique ability to cross over from country to mainstream success. Every one of her albums, except her most recent, has reached number one on the U.S. Top Country Albums chart, with four even claiming the top spot on the Billboard 200. Her most recent album, Denim & Rhinestones, reached number two in 2022, further proving her staying power.

In addition to her solo work, Underwood has collaborated with a wide range of artists across genres. She has shared the stage and recorded tracks with legends like Miranda Lambert, John Legend, Jason Aldean, Aerosmith, Keith Urban, Vince Gill, and even Reba McEntire. These collaborations highlight her versatility and respect across the music industry, showcasing her ability to transcend country music while remaining true to her roots.

Aside from her musical accomplishments, Underwood has made her mark in the literary world and on television. Her fitness and lifestyle book, Find Your Path, debuted at the top of the New York Times bestseller list in 2020, giving fans a glimpse into her health philosophy and personal values. She’s also made television appearances on shows like How I Met Your Mother and Blue Bloods, and for the past 12 years, she has lent her voice to the opening theme of NBC’s Sunday Night Football. Sports fans may also remember her stirring performance of the national anthem at Super Bowl XLIV in 2010.

Looking ahead, Underwood will soon return to the stage as part of American Idol’s 23rd season, joining Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie as a judge, filling in for Katy Perry. Her presence is highly anticipated, and fans are eager to see how she will inspire and mentor a new generation of aspiring artists.

Underwood has remained dedicated to several philanthropic causes, supporting organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and campaigns against bullying. She’s also a passionate advocate for animal welfare and music education.

Personally, Underwood resides in Franklin, Tennessee, with her husband, retired NHL star Mike Fisher, and their two young sons. The couple, who recently celebrated 14 years of marriage, has built a family-centered life near Nashville, where Underwood continues to find balance between her bustling career and family life.

Tonight, Underwood is set to perform at the Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas, marking the final show in her residency for the season. But fans won’t have to wait too long—she is expected to return to the Las Vegas stage next spring. As she prepares for the next chapter of her career, Carrie Underwood remains a shining example of what’s possible when talent, hard work, and resilience meet.