History of Katharine McPhee in Timeline
Katharine Hope McPhee is an American singer and actress widely recognized for her appearance on the fifth season of American Idol, where she finished as the runner-up in May 2006. Her success on the show catapulted her into the public eye and launched her career in the entertainment industry.
March 25, 1984: Birth of Katharine McPhee
Katharine Hope McPhee was born on March 25, 1984.
March 2005: Katharine McPhee Stars in "Annie Get Your Gun"
In March 2005, Katharine McPhee starred as Annie Oakley in a production of the musical "Annie Get Your Gun."
2005: Katharine McPhee Auditions for "American Idol"
Katharine McPhee auditioned for "American Idol" in 2005.
February 2006: Katharine McPhee Completes Rehab
Katharine McPhee completed a three-month rehabilitation program for an eating disorder just before the "American Idol" semifinals began in February 2006.
May 2006: Katharine McPhee Places Second on American Idol
In May 2006, Katharine McPhee was the runner-up on the fifth season of American Idol.
May 2006: Katharine McPhee's Hometown Celebration
Katharine McPhee visited her high school, Notre Dame High School, for a hometown celebration in May 2006. The mayor declared it Katharine McPhee Day.
June 6, 2006: Katharine McPhee Signs Record Deal, Performs at JCPenney Jam
Katharine McPhee signed to RCA Records on June 6, 2006. That same month, she performed at the JCPenney Jam: Concert for America's Kids.
June 27, 2006: Release of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/My Destiny"
Katharine McPhee's "Idol" single, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/My Destiny," was released on June 27, 2006.
September 18, 2006: Katharine McPhee Discusses Bulimia on "The Dr. Keith Ablow Show"
Katharine McPhee and her sister, Adriana, appeared on the debut of "The Dr. Keith Ablow Show" on September 18, 2006 to discuss Katharine's struggles with bulimia.
November 7, 2006: Release of Andrea Bocelli's "Under the Desert Sky"
Andrea Bocelli's album "Under the Desert Sky," which featured a duet with Katharine McPhee, was released on November 7, 2006.
December 1, 2006: Release of "A Gift to You / O Come All Ye Faithful"
Katharine McPhee released the single "A Gift to You / O Come All Ye Faithful" on December 1, 2006.
2006: Katharine McPhee Becomes Spokesperson, Founds McPhee Outreach
Katharine McPhee became the first celebrity spokesperson for Sexy Hair Concepts in 2006. She also founded the charity McPhee Outreach that year.
January 2007: Debut Album Release
Katharine McPhee's eponymous debut album was released in January 2007.
January 30, 2007: Release of "Katharine McPhee"
Katharine McPhee's self-titled debut album, "Katharine McPhee," was released on January 30, 2007.
February 1, 2007: Cameo Appearance on Ugly Betty
On February 1, 2007, Katharine McPhee made a cameo appearance as herself on the television show Ugly Betty in the episode titled "I'm Coming Out." This event marked her involvement in a popular TV series, showcasing her versatility in entertainment.
May 2007: Katharine McPhee Discusses Eating Habits
Katharine McPhee told Teen Vogue about her eating habits in May 2007.
2007: Release of "Crazy"
"Crazy," a musical film in which Katharine McPhee had a small role, was released in 2007.
January 11, 2008: Released from RCA Records Contract
On January 11, 2008, it was announced that Katharine McPhee was released from her contract with RCA Records. A spokesperson mentioned that she planned to record her next album independently. This was a significant career change for McPhee, allowing her more creative freedom.
February 2, 2008
Katharine McPhee married Nick Cokas on February 2, 2008, at Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church, embarking on a new chapter in her personal life.
March 11, 2008: Release of Randy Jackson's Music Club, Vol. 1
On March 11, 2008, Katharine McPhee appeared on Randy Jackson's album, Randy Jackson's Music Club, Vol. 1, with a duet titled "Real Love" alongside fellow American Idol contestant Elliott Yamin. This release demonstrated her continued collaborations with industry figures.
March 12, 2008: Performance on American Idol
On March 12, 2008, Katharine McPhee returned to the American Idol stage during the Top 12 results night of the seventh season. She performed the Beatles song "Something" with producer David Foster on piano, highlighting her ongoing connection to American Idol and her musical talents.
March 2008: Neutrogena Endorsement Deal
In March 2008, Katharine McPhee signed a two-year endorsement deal with Neutrogena, becoming the spokesperson for their anti-acne skin-care product line. This marked a significant step in her career, expanding her presence beyond music to include endorsements.
May 2008: PBS Special: Hit Man: David Foster & Friends
In May 2008, Katharine McPhee participated in the David Foster tribute concert, "Hit Man: David Foster & Friends," filmed by PBS. She performed "Somewhere" solo and a duet with Andrea Bocelli on "The Prayer." This event showcased her vocal talents alongside renowned artists.
June 2008: JAL Promotion with David Foster
Starting in June 2008, Katharine McPhee's vocals were featured on "I Will Be There With You" for Japan Airlines (JAL) to promote new aircraft. This collaboration highlighted her international reach and involvement in diverse projects.
August 2008: Film Debut in The House Bunny
In August 2008, Katharine McPhee made her studio-acting debut in the comedy film The House Bunny, co-starring as a member of a misfit sorority. The film, starring Anna Faris, was produced by Adam Sandler's Happy Madison Productions, marking McPhee's transition into acting.
September 2008: Chris Botti Concert in Boston
In September 2008, Katharine McPhee participated in Chris Botti's concert in Boston, singing "I've Got You Under My Skin" with Botti on trumpet. The concert was filmed by PBS and highlighted McPhee's musical versatility and collaboration with established artists.
November 2008: Release of David Foster Tribute CD/DVD
In November 2008, the CD/DVD of the David Foster tribute concert "Hit Man: David Foster & Friends," featuring Katharine McPhee, was released. This provided fans with a recorded version of her performances from the event.
2008: Gold Certification for "Over It"
Katharine McPhee's single "Over It" was certified gold in 2008.
January 2009: PBS Airing of Chris Botti Concert
Beginning in January 2009, PBS aired Chris Botti's concert, featuring Katharine McPhee's performance of "I've Got You Under My Skin." This televised event allowed a wider audience to experience her musical talent.
January 27, 2009: Signed Record Deal with Verve Forecast Records
On January 27, 2009, Katharine McPhee signed a record deal with Verve Forecast Records, part of the Verve Music Group under Universal Music Group. This new contract marked a fresh start for her recording career.
March 31, 2009: Release of Chris Botti Concert CD/DVD
On March 31, 2009, the live album "Chris Botti in Boston," featuring Katharine McPhee's performance, was released on CD/DVD and Blu-ray. This release captured her contribution to the renowned concert.
April 8, 2009: Guest Appearance on CSI: NY
On April 8, 2009, Katharine McPhee guest-starred on CSI: NY in the episode "Prey," portraying a singer and stalker victim who murdered her stalker. This role demonstrated her acting range in a popular crime drama series.
August 25, 2009: Release of Single 'Had It All'
On August 25, 2009, Katharine McPhee released her single "Had It All" on her MySpace page. This song was part of her second album, Unbroken, showcasing her continued evolution as an artist.
September 2009: Performance at Lionel Richie Tribute Concert
In September 2009, Katharine McPhee participated in the United Negro College Fund's "An Evening of Stars" concert, which was a tribute to Lionel Richie. She performed "You Are" during the event, which was later broadcast and released on DVD.
October 2009: Breast Cancer Awareness Video
In October 2009, Katharine McPhee joined other actresses in a comedic video to promote breast cancer screenings, released on FunnyorDie.com. This effort was part of the Stand Up to Cancer initiative, highlighting her involvement in charitable causes.
November 17, 2009: Release of Christmas Single
On November 17, 2009, Katharine McPhee released a Christmas single titled "I'll Be Home for Christmas." This release added to her repertoire of holiday music, showcasing her vocal talents.
January 5, 2010: Release of "Unbroken"
Katharine McPhee's second album, "Unbroken," was released on January 5, 2010.
Jan 19, 2010: Appearance on The Biggest Loser
On January 19, 2010, Katharine McPhee appeared on The Biggest Loser, volunteering at a Los Angeles food bank and meeting with children at a Boys and Girls Club. She emphasized the importance of fighting hunger in America.
February 1, 2010: Participation in 'We Are the World 25 for Haiti'
On February 1, 2010, Katharine McPhee joined over 75 musicians for a remake of the iconic song "We Are the World," titled "We Are the World 25 for Haiti." The proceeds from this project went to Haitian earthquake relief, highlighting her involvement in humanitarian efforts.
February 8, 2010: Boost in 'Terrified' Downloads
During the week of February 8, 2010, Katharine McPhee's song "Terrified" gained significant exposure after being performed on American Idol by contestant Didi Benami. This led to a substantial increase in digital downloads, showcasing the song's renewed popularity.
February 22, 2010: Performance in 110 Stories Play
On February 22, 2010, Katharine McPhee appeared in the play 110 Stories at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles, co-starring with various actors. The play was a benefit for Haiti earthquake victims, demonstrating her commitment to charitable causes.
March 9, 2010: Performance for International Women's Day at the White House
On March 9, 2010, Katharine McPhee performed "Surrender" at the White House in front of President Obama and the First Lady as part of International Women's Day celebrations. This prestigious event highlighted her role in celebrating women's contributions.
March 11, 2010: Guest Appearance on Community
On March 11, 2010, Katharine McPhee guest-starred in the Community episode "Basic Genealogy" as Chevy Chase's character's ex-stepdaughter. This appearance demonstrated her acting versatility in a popular comedy series.
April 9, 2010: Shooting of The Pink House Pilot
On April 9, 2010, Katharine McPhee filmed a TV pilot for The Pink House, portraying Emily, a Midwestern girl in Manhattan Beach. Despite being produced by Conan O'Brien's company, the pilot was not picked up by NBC, marking a challenging moment in her acting career.
April 2010: Production of The Pink House Pilot
In April 2010, Katharine McPhee participated in the production of a TV pilot for The Pink House, a possible show for the Fall 2010 season. Although the pilot was not picked up, it represented an opportunity to expand her acting portfolio.
May 4, 2010: Release of 'Terrified' Featuring Zachary Levi
On May 4, 2010, a new version of Katharine McPhee's song "Terrified," featuring actor Zachary Levi, was released on Entertainment Weekly's website and iTunes. This collaboration brought a fresh take to the song.
May 7, 2010: Premiere of 'Terrified' Music Video
On May 7, 2010, the music video for Katharine McPhee's "Terrified," featuring Zachary Levi, premiered on Vevo. This visual release complemented the song's new version and expanded its reach.
October 12, 2010: Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You Release
Katharine McPhee released her Christmas album, "Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You," on October 12, 2010. The album debuted at number 11 on the Billboard Top Holiday Albums chart.
October 2010: Release of "Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You"
Katharine McPhee's third album, "Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You," a holiday-themed album, was released in October 2010.
November 9, 2010: Love's Never Leavin' Release for Charity
On November 9, 2010, "Love's Never Leavin'," a song McPhee co-wrote with Richard Marx and Trey Bruce, was released to benefit the Tammany Humane Society.
November 2010: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Release
McPhee's rendition of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" from her Christmas album was released to radio in November 2010, peaking at number 16 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart.
December 2010: Sales Milestone for Debut Album
By December 2010, Katharine McPhee's debut album had sold 381,000 copies.
December 15, 2010: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Campaign
On December 15, 2010, McPhee was featured in a video for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital's Thanks and Giving Campaign, showcasing her interaction with children at the hospital.
2010: Broadcast of Lionel Richie Tribute Concert
In 2010, the concert "An Evening of Stars," featuring Katharine McPhee's performance of "You Are," was broadcast in syndication and on BET. This televised event showcased her musical talents and support for the United Negro College Fund.
January 2011: Sales Figures for "Unbroken"
As of January 2011, "Unbroken" had sold 45,000 copies.
February 2011: McPhee Lands Starring Role in "Smash"
In February 2011, Katharine McPhee secured a lead role in the TV pilot "Smash," a musical drama about a group of individuals creating a Broadway musical inspired by Marilyn Monroe.
May 2011: "Smash" Picked Up as a Series
NBC picked up "Smash" as a series in May 2011, further solidifying McPhee's presence in the television industry.
June 9, 2011: McPhee Signs Record Deal with Columbia Records
Katharine McPhee signed a record deal with Columbia Records on June 9, 2011, marking a significant step in her music career. The deal coincided with Columbia's partnership with NBC to distribute music for the show "Smash."
July 2011: McPhee Ranked on Forbes' Top-Earning American Idol Performers
Forbes ranked McPhee number 10 on their list of the 10 top-earning American Idol performers in July 2011. She earned $1 million for her music and acting endeavors between May 2010 and May 2011.
September 2, 2011: "Shark Night 3D" Release
McPhee starred in the shark thriller film "Shark Night 3D," directed by David Ellis, which premiered on September 2, 2011.
December 2011: McPhee Becomes Spokesperson for Malaria No More
Katharine McPhee became a spokesperson for the Malaria No More organization in December 2011, using her platform to raise awareness about the fight against malaria.
2011: Peisha McPhee Joins "American Idol"
Katharine McPhee's mother, Peisha McPhee, became a vocal coach on "American Idol" in 2011.
February 6, 2012: "Smash" Premieres on NBC
On February 6, 2012, "Smash" debuted on NBC to generally positive reviews.
March 26, 2012: "Smash" Renewed for Second Season
Following its successful first season, "Smash" was renewed for a second season on March 26, 2012.
April 1, 2012: McPhee's Guest Appearance on "Family Guy"
McPhee lent her voice to the animated sitcom "Family Guy" on April 1, 2012, playing the character Mother Maggie in the episode "You Can't Do That on Television, Peter."
June 8, 2012: "Peace, Love & Misunderstanding" Limited Release
McPhee had a cameo as a singer in "Peace, Love & Misunderstanding," starring Jane Fonda. The film had a limited release on June 8, 2012.
August 29, 2012: "You May Not Kiss the Bride" Premieres in Hawaii
McPhee starred in the romantic comedy "You May Not Kiss the Bride," which premiered in Hawaii on August 29, 2012.
September 21, 2012: "You May Not Kiss the Bride" Expands Release
"You May Not Kiss the Bride" expanded to mainland US markets on September 21, 2012, following its premiere in Hawaii.
2012: Katharine McPhee Stars in "Smash"
Katharine McPhee began portraying Karen Cartwright, one of the lead roles, on "Smash" in 2012.
2012: Adriana McPhee Joins "American Idol"
Katharine McPhee's sister, Adriana McPhee, became a vocal coach on "American Idol" in 2012.
January 2013: McPhee Makes Forbes' Top-Earning American Idol Performers List Again
In January 2013, Forbes once again recognized McPhee on their list of the 10 top-earning American Idol performers, this time tying for seventh place with Kellie Pickler. She earned $1.1 million for her work between May 2011 and May 2012.
March 28, 2013: McPhee Performs on American Idol with OneRepublic
McPhee returned to the American Idol stage on March 28, 2013, to perform "If I Lose Myself" with OneRepublic during the show's twelfth season.
April 2013: McPhee Begins Recording Fourth Studio Album
McPhee began recording her fourth studio album in April 2013, featuring collaborations with Ryan Tedder, Linda Perry, and Sia. The album was initially planned for release in late 2013 but was later postponed.
August 2013: McPhee Hopes for 2014 Album Release
In August 2013, McPhee expressed her desire to see her fourth album released in 2014, despite its initial delay.
October 2013
In October 2013, Katharine McPhee was photographed in a compromising situation with Michael Morris, the director of her television show "Smash," sparking controversy and media attention.
2013: "Smash" Concludes
"Smash," starring Katharine McPhee, aired its final episode in 2013.
January 2014: McPhee Films Guest Appearance on "It Could Be Worse"
McPhee and Megan Hilty filmed a guest appearance for the web series "It Could Be Worse" in January 2014. The episode premiered in July 2014 as part of the show's second season on Hulu.
January 2014: McPhee Remains on Forbes' Top-Earning List
McPhee continued to secure her spot on Forbes' list of top-earning American Idol performers in January 2014, tying for tenth place with Jennifer Hudson. She earned $1 million for her work between May 2012 and May 2013.
April 20, 2014: "In My Dreams" Premieres on Hallmark Hall of Fame
The Hallmark Hall of Fame movie "In My Dreams," featuring McPhee and Mike Vogel, aired on April 20, 2014. The movie portrays two individuals who cross paths in their dreams while seeking love.
May 9, 2014: CBS Picks Up "Scorpion"
The television show "Scorpion," in which McPhee played Paige Dineen, was greenlit by CBS on May 9, 2014, premiering later that year.
May 22, 2014
Citing irreconcilable differences, Katharine McPhee filed for divorce from Nick Cokas on May 22, 2014, after six years of marriage.
July 2014: McPhee's Episode of "It Could Be Worse" Premieres
McPhee's guest appearance on the web series "It Could Be Worse" premiered on Hulu in July 2014. She appeared alongside fellow "Smash" actress Megan Hilty.
September 2014: McPhee's Fourth Album Put on Hold
Due to the success of "Scorpion," McPhee's fourth studio album was placed on hold. She revealed in an interview with the L.A. Times in September 2014 that the album would be reevaluated in terms of its release and overall fit.
September 22, 2014: "Scorpion" Premieres on CBS
"Scorpion" premiered on CBS on September 22, 2014, as part of the network's fall lineup. The show's pilot episode received a range of reviews from critics.
November 5, 2014: McPhee Presents at People's Choice Awards Nominations
McPhee served as a presenter for the 2015 People's Choice Awards nominations announcement on November 5, 2014.
December 19, 2014: McPhee Performs on "A Home for the Holidays"
For the second time, McPhee appeared on the annual adoption special "A Home for the Holidays," which aired on December 19, 2014.
2014: Katharine McPhee Stars in "Scorpion"
Katharine McPhee began starring as Paige Dineen in the CBS show "Scorpion" in 2014.
January 7, 2015: McPhee Presents at the People's Choice Awards
McPhee presented at the 2015 People's Choice Awards on January 7, 2015, introducing a performance by Lady Antebellum.
April 9, 2015
On April 9, 2015, Katharine McPhee ignited excitement among her fans by sharing a sneak peek of her upcoming music video for the lead single from her highly anticipated fourth album.
September 2015: Release of "Hysteria"
Katharine McPhee released her fourth album, "Hysteria," in September 2015.
September 18, 2015
Katharine McPhee's fourth studio album, "Hysteria", was released on September 18, 2015, featuring songwriting contributions from notable artists such as Ryan Tedder and Sia Furler.
2015
In 2015, Katharine McPhee had a busy year filled with notable appearances. She showcased her vocal talents by singing the national anthem at the NFC Championship Game in Seattle, demonstrating her patriotism and powerful voice. Her charisma and stage presence shone as she co-hosted the "2015 Greatest Super Bowl Commercials" special alongside sports analyst Boomer Esiason. Adding to her list of accomplishments, McPhee graced the stage of the prestigious Grammy Awards as a presenter, introducing a captivating performance by the legendary duo, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga.
February 8, 2016
Katharine McPhee's divorce from Nick Cokas was finalized on February 8, 2016, marking the end of their marriage.
March 24, 2016
Katharine McPhee revisited her American Idol roots on March 24, 2016, captivating the audience with a heartfelt rendition of the timeless classic, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", showcasing her exceptional vocal range and stage presence.
April 7, 2016
Katharine McPhee went head-to-head against Jason Derulo on the popular television show "Lip Sync Battle" on April 7, 2016, ultimately emerging victorious with her captivating and entertaining lip-syncing skills.
December 2016
Katharine McPhee shared her musical talents with a wider audience in December 2016, serving as the opening act for several shows during renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli's tour.
2016
Katharine McPhee found love on the set of her television show "Scorpion," embarking on a nearly two-year relationship with her co-star, Elyes Gabel, before parting ways in 2016.
February 12, 2017
Katharine McPhee returned to the Grammy Awards stage on February 12, 2017, this time as a presenter alongside the electronic music duo The Chainsmokers at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony.
April 16, 2017
On April 16, 2017, CBS aired the "Stayin' Alive: A Grammy's Salute to the Music of the Bee Gees" concert, featuring Katharine McPhee's soulful performance of the iconic song "Emotion," a testament to the enduring power of the Bee Gees' music and McPhee's vocal abilities.
June 2017
Katharine McPhee ventured into the world of independent cinema in June 2017, commencing filming for the movie "Louisiana Cavier" in the vibrant city of New Orleans.
November 4, 2017
On November 4, 2017, Katharine McPhee took on the challenging role of Kathie, the first wife of Robert Durst, in the Lifetime TV movie "The Lost Wife of Robert Durst," showcasing her acting range and delving into a gripping true crime story.
November 2017: Release of "I Fall in Love Too Easily"
Katharine McPhee released her fifth album, "I Fall in Love Too Easily," composed of jazz standards, in November 2017.
November 17, 2017
Katharine McPhee explored her love for romantic standards with the release of her album "I Fall in Love Too Easily" on November 17, 2017, featuring classic love songs and showcasing her versatility as a vocalist.
April 10, 2018
Katharine McPhee made her highly anticipated Broadway debut on April 10, 2018, stepping into the lead role of Jenna in the beloved musical "Waitress."
May 11, 2018
Katharine McPhee lent her vocal talents to the movie "Book Club", with her song "Living in the Moment," released on May 11, 2018, serving as the film's theme song.
June 2018
Katharine McPhee and David Foster announced their engagement in June 2018, solidifying their commitment to one another.
August 19, 2018
Katharine McPhee's run as Jenna in the Broadway production of "Waitress" concluded on August 19, 2018, marking the end of her first chapter on the Great White Way.
2018: Multiple Projects for Katharine McPhee
"Scorpion," starring Katharine McPhee, concluded in 2018. The same year, she also made her Broadway debut in the musical "Waitress," portraying Jenna.
June 2019
Katharine McPhee's time as Jenna in the West End production of "Waitress" concluded in June 2019, after captivating audiences with her performance.
June 28, 2019
Katharine McPhee and David Foster exchanged vows on June 28, 2019, at the St. Yeghiche Armenian Apostolic Church in Kensington, London, formalizing their relationship in a beautiful ceremony.
November 25, 2019
Katharine McPhee graced the London stage in November 25, 2019, reprising her role as Jenna in "Waitress" at the Adelphi Theatre in London's West End.
2019: Katharine McPhee in "Waitress"
Katharine McPhee originated the role of Jenna in the West End production of "Waitress" in 2019 and then returned to Broadway in the same role later that year.
January 5, 2020
Katharine McPhee's time in "Waitress" came to a bittersweet end on January 5, 2020, as she took her final bow after a successful run on both Broadway and the West End.
2020: Katharine McPhee's Run in "Waitress" Concludes
Katharine McPhee concluded her run as Jenna in the Broadway production of "Waitress" in 2020.
February 22, 2021
Katharine McPhee and David Foster welcomed their son into the world on February 22, 2021, marking a joyous milestone in their lives as they embraced parenthood together.
2021
Katharine McPhee took on a new challenge in 2021 by joining the cast of the Netflix comedy series "Country Comfort." In a delightful twist, Katharine McPhee and her husband, David Foster, teamed up to compete on the sixth season of the popular singing competition show "The Masked Singer" in 2021. They were disguised as "Banana Split," with McPhee enchanting the audience with her vocals while Foster provided instrumental accompaniment.
February 2022
In February 2022, Katharine McPhee courageously opened up about her personal struggles with mental health following weight gain during her pregnancy, shedding light on the challenges many women face postpartum and promoting open dialogue about mental well-being.
October 28, 2022
Katharine McPhee and David Foster embraced the holiday spirit by releasing their collaborative Christmas EP, "Christmas Songs," on October 28, 2022, featuring a collection of beloved holiday classics.
November 2022
Katharine McPhee ventured into the world of fashion and design in November 2022, launching her own jewelry line, KMF Jewelry.
November 25, 2022
Katharine McPhee and David Foster released their collaborative Christmas EP, "Christmas Songs," on November 25, 2022, featuring a collection of beloved holiday classics.