Idol or icon?

[andy55]

I have a question to you: Most of us have a favourite singer, writer, actor or what else.
But when do I use the word: icon or idol?

[Delfino]

I have a question for you:
Most of us have a favourite singer, writer, actor or what else. -> I'd say idol.
But when do I use the word icon or idol?

idol
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idol

icon
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/icon

[andy55]

Thank you