In one corner, you have Jessica Sanchez, whom host Ryan Seacrest called a “16-year-old powerhouse.” In the other, you have Phillip Phillips, a crooning pawnshop worker from Leesburg, Ga.

Jessica Sanchez performs onstage at part 1 of FOX’s American Idol Season 11 Finale. Phillips’ shining moment, however, came during his final judged performance on Idol ‘s Nokia Theater stage.

Winner Phillip Phillips performs onstage at the "American Idol" finale on May 23, 2012 in Los Angeles. Invision/AP (CBS News) The Brits have coronations only when someone dies.

‘American Idol’ Finale: THR Live-Blogs the Jessica Sanchez-Phillip Phillips Showdown Get the play-by-play on Idol Worship as the 16-year-old powerhouse battles the 21-year-old pawn shop worker ...

‘American Idol as usual, White Guy With Guitar wins. If Phillip Phillips wins the title, Jessica Sanchez wins the world!’ wrote a 13-year-old high school student in the Philippines.

After an incredible finale between Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez, it is clear that one of them rose to the challenge and should become our next American Idol! The two remaining American ...

May 23, 2012 -- Phillip Phillips is the new "American Idol." After a record 132 million votes cast, Phillips was crowned season 11's winner during Wednesday's finale.

Phillip Phillips was crowned the winner of American Idol‘s 11th season on Wednesday night, edging out runner-up Jessica Sanchez and becoming the fifth male in a row to emerge victorious on the ...

It’s no secret that, for months now, American Idol season 11 winner Phillip Phillips has been weathering some significant pain due to issues with his kidneys. He’s scheduled to undergo surgery ...

The 21-year-old crooner from Leesburg, Ga., had brought home the win and was heading home a victor. But the music and his bright future would have to wait. First, he just needed a hug from his mom.