Throwback Thursday: “American Idol” Season 2 Stars Ruben & Clay Reunite to Sing on “The View”

ABC/Lou RoccoIt was an American Idol reunion Thursday on ABC’s The View, as the winner and runner-up of the show’s second season reunited to sing a Christmas classic.

Ruben Studdard, who won season two, and Clay Aiken, who was the runner-up, hadn’t sung together on TV in 13 years, until Thursday, when they teamed up to deliver a rendition of Donny Hathaway‘s “This Christmas.”  After the performance, the two men spoke about their enduring friendship.

“Clay and I…he was one of the first people I actually met during Hollywood Week and we’ve been friends ever since,” said Ruben.  Clay agreed, adding, “We FaceTime once every week or so, still!”

In the years since Idol, Clay has released solo albums, starred on Broadway, appeared on The Celebrity Apprentice and run unsuccessfully run for office.  In 2008, he became a dad, and came out as gay.  Ruben filled the audience in on what he’s been busy with since season two, the finale of which still ranks as the most-watched episode in Idol history.

“I have been really blessed over the past 13 years to have released seven albums,” said Ruben to applause. “I’ve been touring all over the world over the last eight years. Been on the road doing the Hit Man tour with [record producer] David Foster and just enjoying life, man.”  

Ruben, who’s also been married and divorced, added, “I’m actually producing a new children’s show right now called Uncle Ruben’s House, so if you got kids…”

Of note: David Foster’s sister, Jaymes, is the mother of Clay’s son, Parker.

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