David Cook Is American Idol Winner!

The seventh season of American Idol finally came to a conclusion the other night, and David Cook was crowned the winner of the competition. 97.5 million votes were cast, and Cook picked up 56% to defeat 17-year-old David Archuleta.

While Archuleta was favored by oddsmakers throughout much of the season, Cook came on down the stretch. Coming into this week, Bodog actually had Cook the favorite (-250) over “Archie” (+170).

Before auditioning for the show, Cook worked as a bartender. He originally attended the auditions to lend moral support to his brother, but one of the show’s producers talked him into trying out as well. The rest, as they say, is history.

As the credits rolled, a stunned Cook sang “Time of My Life.” If he thinks he’s had the time of his life, he ain’t seen nothin’ yet.

For more on American Idol, check out the following:

Syesha Mercado Eliminated from American Idol

Jason Castro Eliminated from American Idol

David Cook Is American Idol Winner!