The storied past of America's favourite singing competition

American Idol, though famous for launching the stratospheric careers of Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and Lee DeWyze (who?), isn't without its fair share of controversial moments. For a show that hails itself as "family friendly," it's often riddled with voting disputes, shady contestants, nude photo leaks and judging drama, so much so that it's experienced more scandals than it has seasons. And that's a lot. As the Idol returns this week with season 12, we're looking back at the torrid history of this karaoke contest, from its phone hacks to its quarter pounder of beef between new judges Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj...