Entertainment Tonight 

After four months of grueling competition and a staggering 132 million votes cast last night, America has crowned its newest "Idol."

Bing: Phillip Phillips to undergo kidney surgery

"American Idol" favorites like Jordin Sparks and Fantasia Barrino graced the stage to perform during the two-hour season finale alongside big-name celebrities such as Rihanna, Neil Diamond, Reba McEntire, Chaka Khan and "Idol" judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. The men of season eleven also sang a touching tribute to the late Robin Gibb with a catalogue of the singer's greatest hits.

Amidst the back-to-back showstoppers, host Ryan Seacrest found a moment to pluck season three alums Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo from the audience for a very special surprise marriage proposal. In the presence of millions, a tearful DeGarmo joyfully accepted the ring.

When it finally came down to the nitty gritty, Seacrest brought contestants Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez to the stage to hear their fate. The nervous twosome were asked to say a few words before the announcement, and both shared their gratitude for their fans' support throughout the competition.

Photos: See Season 11 highlights

"It's been such an honor," said Phillips of the life-changing experience.

"We wouldn't be in this position without you," Sanchez added in appreciation.

Ultimately, 21-year-old Phillips was revealed to be the Season 11 winner. Previous champion Scotty McCreery passed on the torch to Phillips as he sang his coronation song, "Home." Overcome by tears, the newly-crowned "Idol" was unable to finish the song, retreating to the embrace of his parents in the front row.

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