Katharine McPhee

Katharine McPhee (also known professionally as Katharine McPhee Foster) is an American singer, actress, and television personality. She rose to national attention in 2006 as the runner-up on the fifth season of *American Idol*, launching a recording career that includes multiple studio albums. McPhee later became widely known for her acting, starring as Karen Cartwright on the musical drama series *Smash* (2012–2013) and as Paige Dineen on the CBS action-drama *Scorpion* (2014–2018). She has also appeared on Broadway, including in *Waitress*. Though not primarily a literary author, her public career has made her a frequent subject of interviews and profiles.