'American Idol' 2012 winner: Phillip Phillips defeats Jessica Sanchez                       

Southern rocker and "Idol"-made heartthrob Phillip Phillips, 21, took home the title on "American Idol" tonight, bringing Season 11 to a close and continuing the program's lengthy streak of male winners. Dudes have now won the last five seasons.

After a record 132 million votes, Phillip bested Jessica Sanchez, 16, who undoubtedly has a long career ahead of her as well.

The Leesburg, Ga. native won his way into the hearts of voter nation early on this season, using his affinity for molding songs to fit his voice and style to carve his niche in the competition and subsequently melt a whole mess of hearts.

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