American Idol decided to take a look back at the lives of their past winners in a new special that popped up unexpectedly on the network over the weekend. The special wasn't announced before it aired, so many Idol fans might have missed it when it first aired.Welcome Home brought back the winners of seasons one through nine, and it took them back to their hometowns to visit. The special showed just how much the reality competition changed their lives.

There is no doubt that even being a part of the series is a life changing experience.  Week after week, the contestants are brought on stage and judged by the panel and then the American viewers.

It isn't an easy road, but some have become quite successful since their time on American Idol. Others have faded away from the spotlight only to be heard of when they release a new album. That is if they even release new material after their time on the series.

Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood are two of the best-known winners while Chris Daughtry has been able to make a name for himself without winning his season. It is interesting to see how their lives have changed since their seasons. If you missed the American Idol Welcome Home special on Fox, check out the full episode at the above link.