Are Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard Friends, and Does Clay Aiken Have a Brother?

Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard share a strong and enduring friendship that has lasted since their time on American Idol in 2003. Despite the competitive nature of the show, where Studdard emerged as the winner, both artists developed a bond that they describe as brotherly.

They have remained close over the years, often reflecting on their shared experiences and supporting each other through their respective careers. They toured together in 2010 and four years later they did a Christmas show on Broadway.

Regarding family, Clay Aiken does have a brother named Brett Aiken. Brett has largely stayed out of the public eye compared to Clay, who has been in the spotlight for his music and television career.

Clay Aiken, born Clayton Holmes Grissom rose to fame as the runner-up on the second season of American Idol in 2003. In addition to his music career, Aiken co-wrote a bestselling memoir titled Learning to Sing in 2004.

Aiken’s television appearances have been numerous, including performances on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, The Tonight Show, and Saturday Night Live. He has also appeared on Broadway and in various theater productions, including Spamalot, The Drowsy Chaperone, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.