Jordin Sparks: Where are they now?

Born in Phoenix, Ariz., on Dec. 22, 1989, to Jodi Weidmann and former National Football League cornerback Phillippi Sparks, Jordin Sparks was born to work hard – and succeed – just like her parents. Weidmann and the elder Sparks rose above the challenges of many young couples who met and married as community college co-eds. A metro Phoenix high school football standout, Sparks went to junior college before his success at Arizona State catapulted him to the pros. While Sparks was making plays on the field, Weidmann was wisely navigating the family’s financial and overall well being from the sidelines.

Jordin faced her own challenges. Falling short during a fifth-season tryout, she showed determination and persistence by “playing her way in” by participating and winning local Fox affiliate “Arizona Idol.” The victory ensured an audition for the three “Idol” panelists.

Sparks converted her tryout into a trip to Hollywood. From there, she gained confidence weekly and eventually triumphed over finalist Blake Lewis and, at 17-years-old, became the youngest “Idol” champion ever.

Life-after-“Idol” has been just as robust, as Sparks has been busy! Filming sessions, charity events, appearances at the Super Bowl and NBA all-star game, album promotion, big-name television appearances with Leno, Dr. Phil, Kimmel, MTV, BET, and Grammy parties just scratch the surface of Sparks’ meteoric rise.

Somewhere in between, Sparks had to take driving lessons so she can drive the Mustang convertible she won as an “American Idol” qualifier.

Her career is, in many ways, revving up.

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