Jordin Sparks Career Transformation: From 'American Idol' to 'Sparkle'

Check out pop star Jordin Sparks' evolution as both a musician and actress, from her victory in the sixth season of 'American Idol' to her starring role alongside the late Whitney Houston in the soon-to-be-released film "Sparkle." (Not to mention Sparks' fabulous body transformation).

In the summer of 2006, Sparks auditioned twice for the sixth season of "American Idol." She made it through on her second try, and went on to become the winner in May 2007, gaining a loyal fan base known as "Sparkplugs."

In August 2007 Sparks released her debut single "Tattoo," and followed up with the release of her hit studio album "Jordin Sparks" in November. On February 3, 2008, Sparks sang the National Anthem at Super Bowl XLII. She also performed in a tribute to Aretha Franklin at the NAACP Awards in the same month.

Sparks went on to win many awards for her outstanding work in music, including a BET Award, Teen Choice Award, American Music Awards, and a 2009 People's Choice Award (pictured here).

After the release of two successful studio albums along with many other non-musical endeavors (Sparks released her fragrance "Because of You..." in 2010 and became a spokeswoman for Mark cosmetics in 2008), she is currently releasing new tracks while simultaneously balancing a budding acting career. Here, a much slimmer Sparks is pictured at the season 11 finale of "American Idol" in L.A.

Sparks stars alongside the late Whitney Houston in the highly anticipated film "Sparkle," which hits theaters Aug. 17. Musical prodigy Sparkle (Sparks) struggles to become a star while overcoming issues that are tearing her family apart, especially with her single mother Emma (Houston).