"Oh my gosh. No more getting judged after each performance. Now we just get to do what we love to do and it's not viewed as a competition." — David Archuleta on the show's conclusion

"The respect that I have for David Archuleta is very much past the competition thing. He has more talent at his age than I know what to do with at 25. To be able to share the stage with him is an honor for me." — David Cook on David Archuleta

"He's like my big brother. I've learned so much. I've looked up to him since the beginning of this. He's such a great guy ... I just feel so honored to be standing next to him." — David Archuleta on David Cook

"She's singing from her heart and her soul, and she means every word. You can't get much better than that." — Graham Nash on LDS contestant Brooke White

"This is amazing. This is all your fault." — David Cook to brother who accompanied him to audition

"It wasn't quite so clear-cut as we called it." — Judge Simon Cowell to David Cook

"I started this season as the word nerd, according to Simon, and I'm at a loss for words." — David Cook

"I really want to make an album and see how that turns out. And if music doesn't go as far as I was hoping it would, then I will focus ... education. It would be nice to make a living off (music), but you never know." — David Archuleta on his future

"For the first time ever, I don't care who wins. I think you've both been terrific." — Simon Cowell to the two finalists Wednesday

"I just can't believe that I made it this far. I didn't know if I'd make it past the first round. It's just such a blessing." — David Archuleta on finishing second