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Here’s a look back at the American Idol season finale in photos. Photos taken before the show are from The Associated Press. Photos from the show were provided to The Associated Press by Fox.

Adam Lambert and Kris Allen, prior to Wednesday’s Idol finale.

Adam Lambert and Kris Allen arrive for the show.

Paula Abdul greets Adam Lambert as Kris Allen looks on.

Adam Lambert and Kris Allen pose for yet another photo.

Fergie arrives for the Idol finale.

Carlos Santana arrives for Wednesday’s finale.

Lionel Ritchie poses for a photo prior to the Idol finale.

Keith Urban greets the crowd at the Idol finale.

Fergie poses with the Black Eyed Peas.

Heather Locklear arrives for the show with her daughter.

David Cook dedicated the song Permanent to his recently deceased brother.

Carrie Underwood was on hand for the season finale, too.

Ryan, flanked by Adam Lambert and Kris Allen, at the start of Wednesday’s show.

Kris Allen performs with Keith Urban during Wednesday’s show.

Paula Abdul, flanked by Adam Lambert and Kris Allen.

Adam Lambert prepares for his performance with Kiss.

Adam Lambert performs with Kiss during Wednesday’s show.

Adam Lambert sings in from of Gene Simmons during his performance with Kiss.

Kris Allen in a more laid back performance during Wednesday’s results show.

A closeup of Kris Allen performing during the results show.

Some of Kris Allen’s most magical moments in season eight came with guitar in hand.

Kris Allen reacts to being named the Idol winner.

Kris Allen was left nearly speechless after being named the winner of season eight.

Cyndi Lauper backstage at Wednesday’s show.

The band Kiss poses backstage at Wednesday’s show.

Gene Simmons mugs for the camera.