Kellie Pickler is a country music singer and songwriter who rose to fame on the fifth season of American Idol.
Born on June 28, 1986, in Albemarle, North Carolina, Pickler had a tumultuous childhood marked by her parents' divorce and her mother's substance abuse issues.
Despite these challenges, Pickler developed a love for music at a young age and pursued her passion by performing at local events and talent shows.
After auditioning for American Idol in 2006, Pickler made it to the top six contestants before being eliminated.
However, her talent and charisma had already made an impression on the music industry, and she soon signed a record deal with BNA Records.
Her debut album, "Small Town Girl," was released in 2006 and included the hit single "Red High Heels."
Over the next several years, Pickler released three more albums and several successful singles, including "Best Days of Your Life" and "Tough.
She also expanded her career beyond music, appearing on television shows like Dancing with the Stars and hosting her own reality series, I Love Kellie Pickler.
In addition to her music and television work, Pickler is also known for her philanthropic efforts.
She has worked with organizations like the USO and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital to support military personnel and children with cancer.