Jessica Simpson's return to live television on American Idol, her first in 15 years, drew mixed reactions despite being a significant business decision tied to her brand. While some viewers criticized her vocals and the performance,

Jessica Simpson made a much-discussed return to perform on TV during the American Idol finale after a nearly 15 year hiatus.

Roberts became the first Black man to earn the title since Carrie Underwood's predecessor, Season 2's Ruben Studdard, in 2003.