Reunions, farewell performances at the American Idol Grand Finale

It's the end of an era for fans of American Idol, the hit singer competition that saw the birth of artists like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. The show, created by Simon Fuller, first aired in 2002 and lasted 15 seasons.

During the finale on Thursday (Friday, April 8, in Manila), the original judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson shared the stage with present and past contestants.

We've got ALL the fuzzy feelings right now! #IdolFinale pic.twitter.com/QpFX3yDsTF

— American Idol (@AmericanIdol) April 8, 2016

The reunion brought fans to tears as did performances by Idol alumni and alumnae.

Underwood sang a duet with judge Keith Urban, still winning people over with her voice.

.@KeithUrban + @carrieunderwood = #IdolFinale match made in heaven!https://t.co/8ujzN9Vecx

— American Idol (@AmericanIdol) April 8, 2016

Idol judge Jennifer Lopez also took the stage, with sky high energy and, in today's parlance, "slaying."

.@Jlo slayed! #IdolFinale pic.twitter.com/GIBKq6pR6T

— American Idol (@AmericanIdol) April 8, 2016

William Hung, Hong Kong-born civil engineer who endeared himself to the world through an earnest audition, made an appearance—unanimously delighting the audience.

Slay William Hung Slayyyy! #IdolFinale

— Tri$ha $cott KE¥ (@SoulSistaTrisha) April 8, 2016

#WilliamHung just made my NIGHT!! Highlight of @AmericanIdol over the years! Sweet surprise performance. ????

— Erica America (@TheEricaAmerica) April 8, 2016

Past winners like Clarkson, Fantasia Barrino, Ruben Studdard, Jordin Sparks, Scotty McCreery, and Phillip Phillips triggered nostalgia for people who followed the show from the first season.

—KG, GMA News