Chris is thrilled to have the multi-talented Jim Verraros as his special guest this week. As a true OG of pop culture, Jim takes us on the nostalgic journey to the inception of American Idol, where he was a Top 10 contestant on the inaugural season. He shares hidden gems and insider stories from the birth of the entertainment juggernaut and reminisces about his first meeting with Paula Abdul. Chris and Jim discuss the evolution of the show, dish on the current whereabouts of its original cast members, and shower accolades upon the inaugural winner, the beloved Kelly Clarkson. Jim recounts his memorable role in the hilarious Eating Out film series and how he became Idol's gay poster child. And after a 12-year hiatus, Jim talks about releasing his brand-new single, "Take A Bow," and what might come next. This episode is a rollercoaster (pun intended) of laughter, nostalgia, and excitement you won't want to miss! Listen to "Take A Bow" on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/4QW5w0gdSeN2OUH5ugAYXm?si=37b0ab89106646f2 Follow Chris Vetrano for more pop culture nostalgia: Listen! It’s Vetrano: http://listenitsvetrano.com Twitter: http://twitter.com/CMVetrano  Instagram: http://instagram.com/CMVetrano  TikTok: http://tiktok.com/CMVetrano  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@listenitsvetrano Facebook: http://facebook.com/ListenItsVetrano  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.