When you login first time using a Social Login button, we collect your account public profile information shared by Social Login provider, based on your privacy settings. Lil Sweet, the Dr. Pepper mascot he started playing in 2015, is back in a new commercial. The album of reinvented jazz standards was described by Allmusic as "a successful reinvention where his natural skills shine", The Philadelphia Inquirer said that "Guarini displays an agile, attractive voice with good phrasing, supported by a sophisticated and funky backing ensemble.". The Georgia-native singer ended up losing to pop songstress Kelly Clarkson, who now has several Grammy Awards to her name! Guarini told Entertainment Weekly in 2015 that his Lil Sweet persona is the kind of thing he does around the house all day every day, adding that he loves to make his wife and kids laugh. He was a director/performer at the Riverside Haunted Woods in Bridgeton Township, Pennsylvania, in 2001. While continuing his career with the Broadway community, Justin is now focused on his family and has turned to TV commercials. Justin Guarini, who finished second to Kelly Clarkson in season one of the reality singing competition, has been playing that part since 2015. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google, Visit Billboard Pro for music business news, Bruce Springsteen & Steven Van Zandt Pay Tribute to Late Director Jonathan Demme, The Voice Key Adviser Shania Twain Reveals the Soccer Inspiration Behind From This Moment On: Exclusive, Fifth Harmonys Normani Kordei Talks Dancing With The Stars, Girl Group Night and New 5H Music. ", "Theater Review: At Encores!, Paint Your Wagon", "First Look! In 2013, he wrote a blog post about the struggles of his post-"Idol" life. Part of HuffPost Entertainment. Justin Guarini was born in Columbus, Georgia, on October 28, 1978.Dad Eldrin Bell is a former Atlanta police chief and Clayton County (Ga.) Commission Chair. Original regional productions include Ghost Brothers of Darkland County as one of two feuding brothers in 2012 at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Justin Guarini has an estimated net worth of around $700,000. SEE ALSO: KELLY CLARKSON HOSTS AMERICAN IDOL REUNION WITH JUSTIN GUARINI & ALL THREE SEASON 1 JUDGES! His high school and college theatre credits include the lead roles in The Mystery of Edwin Drood, The Little Prince, The Pirates of Penzance, The Taming of the Shrew, and Once on This Island. But its pretty well-known that Lil Sweet is actually the Season 1Idol runner-up even if Justin is somewhat unrecognizable wearing Aqua-Netted long locks even lusher than his famous Sideshow Bob curls and a sparkly gypsy scarf that looks like it was plucked from ex-Idol judge Steven Tylers closet. Justin Guarini was born in Columbus, Georgia, on October 28, 1978. Justin joined boys choirs throughout his time in school and even became the lead vocalist in an acapella group called The Midnight Voices. Immediately prior to American Idol, Justin was offered a seat in the prestigious master class program in "The Lion King" on Broadway; he auditioned for American Idol instead and couldn't take the offer from Lion King when he became an AI finalist. He began singing with the Atlanta Boy Choir at the age of four. After losing to Kelly Clarkson, he went on to co-star with her in the box-office bomb "From Justin to Kelly" and try his hand as a recording artist. You can watch funny Diet Dr Pepper commercial featuring Justin Guarini for Lil' Sweet. Who Plays the Little Guy on the Dr. Pepper Commercials. Justin Guarini is married to wife Reina Capodici. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Justin Guarini has an estimated net worth of around $700,000. In addition to singing and stage performing, Guarini plays the piano, guitar, and banjo. During the thrilling first season of Idolin 2002, when America had found its new pop culture craze and Brian Dunkleman was still a co-host, Clarkson came to embody the show's promise right out of the gate. Email us atexclusive@the-sun.comor call212 416 4552. September 09, 2020. Don't miss a beat. Justin isn't the only actor starring as a. Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. Jill spends her free time binge-watching sitcoms and daydreaming about life as a hobbit, Let us know what you feel about this article. In 2011, he and Reina welcomed their first child together, a son named William Neko Bell Guarini. The first runner-up on the debut season of 'American Idol' plays undersized singer Lil' Sweet. He studied vocal performance and theatre in Philadelphia and New York before auditioning for American Idol in 2002. ", "Drink Up! This time, he shows up to give a can to people who deserve it. Idol judge Simon Cowell praised Guarini's performance in the show's first season, at one early audition telling him "Justin, you know, occasionally you're very privileged when you do a competition like this to hear somebody undiscovered who has a voice like yours", with Guarini ultimately becoming the runner-up to winner Kelly Clarkson in September 2002. He then asks if it is hot in the room or if it was just him. The film was critically panned,[5] while the album sold 146,000 copies. Top 5 Most Exciting Diet Dr Pepper Lil Sweet Feat Justin Guarini Commercials 2017 [Mr Elzone] Mr Elzone 356 subscribers Subscribe 2.3K views 5 years ago Top 5 Most Exciting Diet Dr. The musician released a book in 2019 called Audition Secrets. In the ad, Lil Sweet defies gravity by sliding down the banister as he rescues two dads craving a cupcake, but fearful of the calories. He did reveal to E! but turned down the chance to star in the Broadway production. [41][42] In 2016 Guarini released his exclusive 17 track EP "JG" via PledgeMusic. His latest theater role was in 2016 and he is still active in the community. [15] His second child, Asher, was born on February 25, 2013. Despite not winning on "Idol," Guarini scored a record deal with RCA. Justin attends the 99th Annual 6abc Dunkin Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 22, 2018, Where American Idol season 1 finalist Justin Guarini is now- from Kelly Clarksons pop singer BFF to Dr. Pepper ad star, Vanderpump Rules' Lala Kent reveals she's undergoing plastic surgery makeover after split from baby daddy Randall Emmett, Rita Ora adopts cute puppy called Honey which has the 'loudest snore in the world'. In 2013, the singer actually sat down with Oprah, and revealed that his fame from American Idol may have helped his career, but it damaged his life. There he worked in nightclubs and auditioned for theater roles. Yes, That's Justin Guarini In That Diet Dr Pepper Commercial. Lil' Sweet & The Doctor of Dr Pepper Records play the "Dr Pepper & Cream Soda Theme" as they promote Dr Pepper & Cream Soda and Diet Dr Pepper & Cream Soda -- two new drinks said to constitute a delicious duet. His first concert was The Jacksons' "Victory Tour." After graduating, he moved to New York City and enrolled in the School for Film and Television. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. Your email address will not be published. Join the Fun!! [citation needed], In 2021, Guarini starred as Prince Charming in the world premiere of the jukebox musical Once Upon a One More Time. Lil Sweet is BACK yall! Guarini wrote on Twitter after the new commercial premiered. The runner-up from the 2002 debut season of American Idol he lost to Kelly. He appeared on other TV guide network shows, hosted movie premieres, and provided on-air coverage of award shows. Editor in Chief, Yahoo Music March 30, 2015, 1:34 PM No, that's not the Darkness's Justin. After studying vocal performance and theater studies at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Guarini later moved to New York City, where he attended the School for Film and Television. Oh, not to mention his role as that groovy Prince-esque "Lil Sweet" guy in the Diet Dr. Pepper commercials. He went on to sign with 19 Management, landing a record deal with RCA. Although he did live in Los Angeles for many years, Justin confirmed to Visit Bucks County that he moved back home to raise his family. "I'm not claiming that every Lil' Sweet advertisement during the National Championship leads to a Bulldogs victory, but . Clad in red and white getups, the two stars rock out to a full house of deliriously happy, soft drink-guzzling fans, one of whom is rendered unconscious by the pyrotechnic excitement of this "delicious duet." Multitalented entertainer Justin Guarini portrays him. Guarini made a name for himself in Season 1 of "American Idol." By Madeline Boardman. JUSTIN Guarini is best known for being the runner-up on season one of American Idol, but what has he been up to since? It was really a difficult decision," Guarini told TheaterMania. Son, William Neko Bell Guarini was born April 26, 2011; Asher Orion Guarini was born February 25, 2013. Guarini actually turned down the opportunity to perform inThe Lion Kingso that he could be on American Idol a show that, at that time, was a risk to join. But Broadway seems like it is not a detour for Guarini, but a destination. Seriously, if Justin Guarini had looked and sounded like this back in Season 1, I totally would have voted for him. Other professional performances Guarini has starred in include: Guarini has also guest-starred on shows like Wizards of Waverly Place, a Disney original featuring Selena Gomez. Shortly after being chosen for American Idol, he was offered a role in the Broadway production of The Lion King. The spot premiered during Monday nights College Football Playoff National Championship. Then in 2013, his wife gave birth to their second son, whom they named Asher. and they went on to co-star in the critically panned (but undeniably fun) musical vacation flickFrom Justin to Kelly. "The Midnight Voices" was founded "to serenade their 'female friends' the night before high school graduation," but the group went on to burn a CD and take second at the 2000 Harmony Sweepstakes A Cappella Festival Mid-Atlantic Regional. Guarini takes on an alter ego named Lil Sweet in the commercial. So what has Justin Guarini been up to? Chief Bell is first cousin to acclaimed actor Samuel L. Jackson's wife, LaTonya. Born on October 28, 1978, Guarini is a native of Georgia. [6], Guarini had a role in the 2004 pre-Broadway New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Theater workshop/presentation of the musical Good Vibrations at Vassar College. His father, Eldrin Bell, is a former Georgia Chief of Police and is African American. In 2004, he starred in the pre-Broadway presentation of Good Vibrations but turned down the chance to star in the Broadway production. Lil' Sweet raises a can of Diet Dr Pepper and tells the dad he deserves it for building a house with a tiny tool. Born on October 28, 1978, Guarini is a native of . making an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show in 2019. Prior to the American Idol Tour, he was the only contestant asked to appear on The Oprah Winfrey Show, on which Oprah Winfrey told him, "Justin, you have it. In 2002, Justin's life changed forever when he turned down a role in The Lion King to audition for American Idol. Natasha Marc plays the role of a Fansville resident. [10] Critics called Guarini's debut "surprisingly charming", "captivating" and "extremely likeable". Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about. Idol judge Simon Cowell praised Guarini's performance in the show's first season, at one early audition telling him "Justin, you know, occasionally you're very privileged when you do a competition like this to hear somebody undiscovered who has a voice like yours", with Guarini ultimately becoming the runner-up to winner Kelly Clarkson in September 2002. "As I progressed through Idol I realized that it might be something.". Teen Mom Cheyenne Floyd STUNS in tight white dress for over-the-top engagement photoshoot with fianc Zach Davis. [43] He has been cast to reprise the role when the musical transfers to Broadway's Marquis Theatre in May 2023.[44]. His father, Eldrin Bell, is African-American and is a former Atlanta, Georgia, Chief of Police, and former chairperson of the Clayton County Commission in Clayton County, Georgia. Published. "Lil' Sweet is BACK, y'all!" says the rapper. Michele Amabile Angermiller. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. He also took on lead roles in numerous high school and college plays. Since then, she has, of course, become a massive star, proving all it took at least back then was a killer voice, a dream, and an audition number. Pepper mascot he first appeared as in a commercial in 2015, has returned in a new ad. His performance (which included singing, dancing, acting, and playing guitar) landed Guarini an offer to continue the role in the original Broadway production, which he eventually declined. Justin Guarini (born Justin Eldrin Bell; October 28, 1978)[1] is an American singer, songwriter and actor who in 2002 was the runner-up on the first season of American Idol. He is also set to star as Bobby in the play Company at the Bucks County Playhouse from May 29 through June 21. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. The first Lil Sweet commercial debuted in February. Your culture and entertainment cheat-sheet. in 2016. Justin Guarini became the first runner-up on American Idol, ultimately losing to Kelly Clarkson during season one of the singing competition. In May 2008, Guarini released an acoustic EP titled Revolve comprising three songs ("Sweet Time", "Rock Bottom", and "When She Cries") co-written and co-produced with Shaun Ingram. Email us atexclusive@the-sun.comor call212 416 4552. In 2006 he received the NAMM 'Music For Life' Award for his support of music education. Guarini was born in Columbus, Georgia. Kathy also anchored news programs in Philadelphia and Atlanta (CNN), where she met Justin's father, Eldrin Bell, who rose through the ranks of the Atlanta police department to become its commissioner.Justin was accepted into the Atlanta Boys Choir at four years old. But, now I knew I was onto something, and I wasn't letting go. The title track from his album Stranger Things Have Happened was also used in the documentary. [16], In 2013, Guarini was cast in a modern Broadway production of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet as Paris. Justin performs in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade from time to time and has been a co-host throughout the years. Beck Bennett (AT&T) - $250,000 He continues his Broadway and theater career in 2015 with "Paint Your Wagon" an Encores presentation by New York City Center and "Moonshine: That Hee Haw Musical" at Dallas Theatre Center.Justin married hometown sweetheart Reina Capodici September 26, 2009 at a Hudson River estate in Pennsylvania, with vows that included step-daughter, Lola. In the past 30 days, commercials featuring Justin Guarini have had 72,728 airings. His Idol cohort Kelly Clarkson is slated to appear on the Fox show as a mentor on April 1. Guarini's musical experience started at age four when he was accepted by the Atlanta Boy Choir. Lil' Sweet is seemingly the mascot for Diet Dr. Pepper but sometimes shows in ads for the regular version of the soda. The season one runner-up "sings in the key of sweet. American Idol season one runner-up Justin Guarini stars in a new ad campaign for Diet Dr Pepper. Luckily, in Guarini's case, Idol was just the beginning! The former "Idol" runner-up makes sweet music as Diet Dr Pepper's "Lil Sweet," looking unrecognizable in a long purple wig in the latest commercial titled "Birthday." Wanting to continue his singing career, Justin independently released his second album, Stranger Things Have Happened Here. [2][3] After moving to Pennsylvania in 1985, he joined the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Boys Choir. Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. He's no lifeguard, but he presents her with an ice-cold Diet Dr Pepper that gives him the shivers and makes her swoon. KELLY CLARKSON HOSTS AMERICAN IDOL REUNION WITH JUSTIN GUARINI & ALL THREE SEASON 1 JUDGES! They have two kids together, named William and Asher. Justin Guarini is back on the small screen, but he looks very different from his "American Idol" days. Since coming in second to the now talk show host, the 41-year-old has appeared in numerous Broadway musicals, as well as, ahem, starring in the not-so-well-received movie From Justin to Kelly (via IMDb).The singer has also played 'Lil Sweet in Dr Pepper commercials for . Real-Time Video Ad Creative Assessment. Other professional performances Guarini has starred in include: Guarini has also guest-starred on shows like Wizards of Waverly Place, a Disney original featuring Selena Gomez. From 2007 to 2011, TV Guide Network signed Guarini as permanent co-host for Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Usually, he advertises the diet version of the drink, but the new ad is for the regular soda. [38][39][40] In 2016, Dr Pepper "promoted" tunes for a Lil' Sweet "album" with video clips, promotional pictures of the character, and the character's own Twitter page. . After Idol, Justin signed with 19 Management and secured a record deal with RCA. Its actually another American Idol alum (and another Justin), Justin Guarini and clearly self-employed rocker Lil Sweet is the role he was born to play. Now, 20 years after his American Idol debut, Justin has created a life for himself that he is happy about. For other inquiries, Contact Us. American Idol season one runner-up Justin Guarini stars in a new ad campaign for Diet Dr Pepper.. Guarini takes on an alter ego named Lil' Sweet in the commercial. They married a few months later in September 2009. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. On-air duties with the network expanded to include guest hosting/appearances on other TV Guide Network shows, hosting movie premiere specials, and serving as a member of TV Guide Network's awards show team with on-air coverage of awards shows such as the Grammy Awards and Emmy Awards. If you ask us, he deserves more just for that falsetto! Chief Bell is first cousin to acclaimed actor Samuel L. Jackson's wife, LaTonya.Stepfather Jerry Guarini is a retired Navy physicist.Mom Kathy is a former TV journalist and anchor at CNN and is now a freelance broadcast journalist and Realtor in Doylestown. Born on October 28, 1978, Guarini is a native of Georgia. Guarini performed on stage throughout high school and college and learned to play the piano, guitar, and banjo. Soon after, Guarini signed with American Idol's 19 Management and secured a record deal with RCA. Well, where has that very Justin been since? To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. Multitalented entertainer Justin Guarini portrays him. His sister says that he imitated Michael Jackson's style and was known to 'moonwalk' around the house. The beloved character has appeared in commercials since 2015. Advertisement. ". Season 1 American Idol runner-up Justin Guarini has returned to our television screens as a beloved character. Justin Guarini is in a new Diet Dr. Pepper commercial. [7], Guarini co-produced his second album Stranger Things Have Happened, independently released in December 2005 through his own production company, Justice Entertainment, Ltd.. Justin Guarini became the first runner-up on American Idol, ultimately losing to Kelly Clarkson during season one of the singing competition. All Rights Reserved. The pint-sized heavy metal . The Voices Team Ariana Sings Together in Cute New Video, Selena Gomez Talks About Losing Touch with Wizards of Waverly Place Castmates, Everything to Know About The Voice New Coach Niall Horan, 10 Things Got Talent Didnt Tell You About Marcelito Pomoy. "I'm so happy and proud, and just over the moon about how well she has done." Aside from Lil' Sweet, Justin has continued to act, with his last two roles in 2018 and 2019. He studied vocal performance and theatre in Philadelphia and New York before auditioning for American Idol in 2002.