Over the years, television audiences across the nation have made Fox’s “American Idol” a part of their family. Many of us have spent our evenings with family and friends watching millions of hopefuls live out their superstar dreams on live television season after season. While some of the show’s contestants were minimally talented, there were many who possessed raw talent and went on to become superstars in their own right, like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

But all good things must come to an end. The reality show will air its 15^th and last season in January, according to EW.com.

It was only a matter of time before the show would see its final days. After all, the aging singing competition doesn’t receive the attention or the ratings it once did to allow it to stay on the air.

When “American Idol” was first introduced in 2002, it was all anyone could talk about. The show was inventive, interactive and introduced audiences to a new television experience.

But now it seems as though there’s an overabundance of reality television competitions. From “The Voice” to “Dancing with the Stars,” these fresh options have placed “American Idol” on the backburner.

Even though “American Idol” is the only show on television to produce successful entertainers, the show is no longer talked about as it once was. Years ago, “American Idol” was an integral part of the country’s pop culture and will be remembered as such.

I remember the first season as if it was yesterday. Most everyone, including me, wanted to be on “American Idol” and belt out songs like Kelly Clarkson. Since then, few shows have been able to garner that same attention.

While it’s sad to see the show end, there’s no doubt it will end on a strong note.