Kelly Clarkson defends her weight gain
If you have followed Kelly Clarkson’s career since when she won the first season of “American Idol,” you probably noticed how her weight fluctuates.
Sometimes it’s way up, sometimes it’s way down. Media critics have been critical of Clarkson’s weight as she makes her rounds on the circuit to promote her CD.
In the latest issue of Self magazine, Clarkson responds to her critics. She said “Of course celebrities have cellulite. When people talk about my weight, I’m like, ‘You seem to have a problem with it. I don’t. I’m fine. My happy weight changes. Sometimes I eat more. sometimes I play more.”
For the record, I think the whispers about Clarkson’s weight is nonsense. Yes, she has gained a few pounds, but she isn’t obese.
In Hollywood, she probably is considered to be fatso. But in the real world, she’s actually considered skinny.
Tim Henley
Kara DioGuardi says she didn’t replace Paula Abdul
Kara DioGuardi appeared on Ryan Seacrest’s radio show to discuss Paula Abdul’s departure from American Idol.
I’ve always speculated that Idol producers brought Kara to the show last year as a fourth judge because they wanted to slowly push Paula out of the door.
Kara dismisses those rumors and says she wasn’t there to replace Paula. An excerpt from the interview is posted below.
“The kind of heart she treated the contestants with she treated me with last year. She was so kind to me and made me feel immediately like part of the panel.”
“I’ve left her a lot of messages. I talked to her last week. I haven’t spoken to her this week.
“The way I’m understanding it is that it was her choice to leave. I never was here to replace her. It would be impossible to replace Paula Abdul. She’s an incredible talent. She is somebody who helped make the show as big as it is. How could you ever replace that?”
“If anything, she was really somebody who helped me because it was awkward at times being the fourth person.”
American Idol contestants, judges react to Paula Abdul’s departure
As you already know, “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul will not return to the show for a ninth season. “American Idol” staff and former contestants react to the shocking news.
“I am shocked and saddened about Paula. Idol and the cast have grown with each other over the last 8 seasons. I can’t imagine the panel without Paula. She’s a star and a great friend.” — American Idol host Ryan Seacrest (Twitter).
“I am shocked.” Paula is a dear friend and will be missed.” — American Idol judge Randy Jackson (US Weekly).
“Not having Paula back for the ninth season of Idol is a huge mistake. Paula, I love you and thank you for making me feel worthy. The show will be nothing without you.” — Season 1 contestant Jim Verraros (Facebook).
“I was shocked. I definitely think the show will be different without Paula. “The truth is, we don’t spend a lot of time with the judges. However, Paula was the one every elimination show that came backstage to visit with us. was truly concerned about our well-being. I think because, on that panel of judges, she was the performer, she was the one who experienced what it was like to be on the front lines, she had the empathy for us. She provided a little softness to the table.” — Season 7 contestant Brooke White (MTV News)
“We love you! Glad I was able to be a part of your last season on the show. You showed us so much love.” — Season 8 winner Kris Allen (Twitter).
“I’m really sad to see Paula Abdul not coming back to Idol. She was the judge with the biggest heart! She really will be missed.” — Season 8 contestant Danny Gokey (Twitter).
“Paula leaving American Idol is like a honeycomb without the honey. She brought a sweetness to ‘AI’ that no one can replace. She will be forever our girl.” – Season 6 contestant Blake Lewis (Entertainment Weekly).
Paula Abdul is leaving American Idol
It’s official. Paula Abdul is leaving the talent show “American Idol” after eight seasons.
Paula made the announcement on her Twitter page Aug. 4. She said “With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return to Idol. “I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day one become an international phenomenon. What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me. I do, without any doubt, have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all.”
Last month, Paula’s manager said she was angry and hurt that executives haven’t offered her a contract yet.
The Fox Network released a statement that said “Paula Abdul has been an important part of the American Idol family over the last eight seasons and we are saddened that she has decided not to return to the show. While Paula will not be continuing with us, she’s a tremendous talent and we wish her the best.”
I don’t think Idol executives had any intention of renewing Paula’s contract. That’s probably why they brought Kara DioGuardi to the show during the eight season.
Yes, Paula acted a little loopy and annoying from time to time, but she still brought something extra to the show. It’s going to be odd watching the show without seeing her sitting next to Simon.
Tim Henley
Kara DioGuardi will return to American Idol
Kara DioGuardi will return for another season of “American Idol.”
Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell, Ryan Seacrest and DioGuardi have all been offered contracts.
But no contract for Paula Abdul yet. Abdul’s spokesperson previously said Abdul was angry at “American Idol” executives because they haven’t offered her a contract. (Click here to read the full statement).
I can’t imagine the show without Abdul. Although some people say she is crazy, she still makes the show interesting.
Abdul is one of the original judges, so they should have offered her a contract before DioGuardi.
Tim Henley
Former American Idol contestant found dead
Former American Idol contestant Alexis Cohen was found dead on a street Saturday morning (July 25)
Cohen, 25, was the victim of an apparent hit-and-run accident, according to APP. Her body was found by a driver, and she was taken to a local hospital.
Cohen suffered from chest, abdominal and head injuries.
Daniel Bark, 23, was arrested Sunday evening in connection with her death. He’s accused of aggravated manslaughter, leaving the scene of accident and reckless driving.
Cohen auditioned during the seventh and eighth seasons of American Idol but she failed to advance to the next rounds.
Her first audition segment aired in January 2008. The clip is posted below.
Meet the “Real Chance of Love” season two cast
The reality dating show “Real Chance of Love” season two will begin airing this fall on VH1. The brothers Real and Chance will date several women, and will choose one woman each to become their life partner.
The contestants are posted below. Click the photos to enlarge the pictures.
Jennifer Hudson really is pregnant
Singer and actress Jennifer Hudson has repeatedly denied that she was pregnant.
During the past few months, anytime a magazine reporter would print an article saying she was pregnant, the singer would immediately issue a press statement denying the pregnancy and basically calling the magazines a lie.
However, if you saw her perform at Michael Jackson’s memorial service Tuesday, you will know that Jennifer Hudson is the real liar.
Hudson performed Jackson’s song “Will You Be There” during the memorial service. She looked more pregnant than anyone I’ve ever seen.
After her appearance, hopefully she won’t lie to us about her pregnancy anymore. The photos are posted below.
The father of her child is her husband reality show star David Otunga.
Tim Henley
Carrie Underwood’s new CD
There’s no resting for country singer and American Idol winner Carrie Underwood.
Her next CD will be released Nov. 3. This will be her third CD since she won American Idol in 1995.
Click here to read the full story from The Oklahoman’s Brandy McDonnell.
Celebrity briefs (July 7)
–American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi married contractor Mike McCuddy on July 5.
–Rumer Willis will guest star during the upcoming season of “90210.” Rumer is the daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore.
–Actor Kal Penn started his new job in the White House as an associate director in the Office of Public Liaison. Penn was appointed by President Obama. Penn starred in the raunchy “Harold and Kumar” films.
–Michael Jackson’s best celebrity friend Elizabeth Taylor won’t be attending his funeral today because she doesn’t want to share her grief with millions of people.
Chris Daughtry tour dates announced
Chris Daughtry and his band members are going on a club/theatre tour this summer to promote their new album titled “Leave This Town.”
The tour will kick off Aug. 2 in Orlando and conclude at Club Pure in Las Vegas on Aug. 22.
Chris Daughtry placed fourth on American Idol in 2006. Although he lost the competition, he is one of the biggest selling contestants.
The tour dates are posted below.
August 2: Orlando, Fla. (House of Blues)
August 4: Boston (Showcase Live)
August 7: Columbus, Ohio (LC Pavilion)
August 9: Minneapolis (The Cabooze)
August 11: Nashville (Cannery Ballroom)
August 12: Memphis (Minglewood Hall)
August 14: Houston (Warehouse Live)
August 16: Denver (The Gothic Theatre)
August 18: Phoenix (Marquee Theatre)
August 19: Los Angeles (Henry Fonda Theatre)
August 20: San Francisco(The Fillmore)
August 22: Las Vegas (Club Pure)
American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi is engaged
American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi will have a new husband this summer.
DioGuardi appeared on “Live With Regis and Kelly” and said she is engaged to be married to Mike McDuddy in about two weeks.
The story of how they met is interesting. McDuddy is a contractor who worked on a house next door to DioGuardi’s home in Maine.
She went next door to complain to McDuddy that the house he was building was too close to hers, and she thought he was attractive when she saw him. The rest is history.
DioGuardi declined to say where she will be married. I’m guessing she wants to avoid the papparrazzi.
I doubt if the papparrazzi would ever stalk her wedding anyway. She’s not that famous, and nobody cares.
Tim Henley
Adam Lambert album release this summer
Adam Lambert came in second place on “American Idol” this year, but he will be the first contestant from the current season to release an album.
Lambert’s debut album titled “On With The Show” will be released this summer. Before you Lambert fans get too excited, you should know the song on the album are old. They were recored four years ago, before he competed on “American Idol.”
Also, Lambert says he will not support that album because he doesn’ t want the album released.
Lambert said in a press release, “Back in 2005 when I was a struggling artist, I was hired as a studio singer to lend my vocals to tracks written by someone else. I was broke at the time and this was my chance to make a few bucks, so I jumped at the opportunity to record for my first time in a professional studio.”
“The work I did back then in no way reflects the music I am currently in the studio working on. I’m thrilled to be working with some of today’s hottest songwriters and producers and can’t wait for people to hear what my music really sounds like.”
Instead of purchasing those old songs, Lambert wants his fans to focus on his album that will be released in the fall on RCA records.
Tim Henley
Ryan Seacrest partied with Lindsay Lohan
Paparazzi cameras filmed “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest and Linsday Lohan hanging out together at various nightlife locations in Los Angeles.
When asked by a TMZ cameraman why he’s hanging out with Lohan, Seacrest replied “I’m trying to, you know, give her guidance. She wants to sing. She loves to sing. Dude, you know she’s a singer. Come on.”
Seacrest also said he’s impressed with Lohan’s singing ability.
The court system couldn’t successfully give Lohan “guidance,” and neither could the rehab counselors. I seriously doubt if Ryan Seacrest can give her guidance.
Also, he’s lying through his teeth when he said he’s impressed with Lohan’s singing ability. I’ve her sing too, and she cannot sing whatsoever.
Tim Henley
American Idol winner Kris Allen signs record deal
It’s no surprise, but American Idol winner Kris Allen has signed a record deal with 19 Recordings/Jive Records.
His debut album is expected to be released in the fall.
Allen beat runner-up Adam Lambert during the finale May 20.
Although I was glad that Allen beat Lambert in the competition, I’m still not happy that Allen was named the American Idol winner.
Allen is a good singer, but I don’t think he was better than Anoop Desai, Allison Iraheta, Danny Gokey or Matt Giraud.
Again, I’m not saying Allen isn’t talented. I know he’s talened.
However, in my humble opinion, I believe any of those four that I listed above would have made a better American Idol.
Tim Henley
Kara Dioguardi says Adam Lambert was not in the closet
Many people in the media, along with American Idol fans, have often speculated about American Idol runner up Adam Lambert’s sexuality.
In an interview with People magazine, Lambert declined to answer questions about his sexuality. In fact, he said he wants everyone to “keep speculating.”
However, the public might have to speculate anymore. It seems American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi might have outed him publicly.
DioGuardi appeared on “The View” this week, and Barbara Walters asked her a question about Lambert’s sexuality. ”I don’t think that Adam was ever in the closet. I think he was always openly out. I think he was. I mean, from what I’ve seen. I do. I never thought he wasn’t.”
If Lambert really was in the closet, he certainly isn’t now. DioGuardi just spilled the beans on national television without Lambert’s permission.
If Lambert wanted the whole world to know, he probably would have announced it himself during his People magazine interview.
Tim Henley
New music video: Fight For Love by Elliott Yamin
Paula Abdul was addicted to painkillers
During the past several seasons of American Idol, the viewers at home always noticed how Paula Abdul acted bizarre on the show.
It always appeared like she was under the influence of something, and she would sometimes slur her words. Rumors began circulating that she was high on drugs or something.
At the time, Paula denied those allegations. But now, she’s coming clean.
In the latest issue of Home Journal magazine, Paula reveals that she used to be addicted to painkillers. She said, “I could have killed myself. Withdrawal- it’s the worst thing.”
She said she went to rehab in California six months ago to deal with her addiction. She said “I was freezing cold, then sweating hot, then chattering and in so much pain, it was excruciating. But at my very core, I did not like existing the way I had been.”
Paula said she was taking painkillers to cope with various back and neck injuries she sustained during her career as a performer.
Paula created controvery a few years ago, when she appeared to be under the influence of something while she was giving a television. The clip of her odd behavior is posted below.
Tim Henley
American Idol contestant arrested for stalking Britney Spears
“American Idol” producers tend to let a lot of crazy people audition for the show.
Miranda Tozier Robbins (who auditioned for American Idol) was arrested after she was caught peeking into Britney Spears’ windows at her California home.
At the time of her arrest, Robbins was wearing camouflage clothes and she had a camera.
She was arrested on complaints of trespassing and disorderly conduct.
Ironically, when Robbins auditioned for the fifth season of American Idol, she sang “Everytime” by Britney Spears.
Last year, another American Idol contestant committed suicide outside of Paula Abdul’s home.
Is Simon Cowell leaving American Idol?
American Idol judge Simon Cowell gave an interview to a London newspaper and said his hectic schedule might cause him to leave “American Idol” whenever his contract expires.
He told the Mirror, “Most people do one show a year and I do three and they involve a lot of traveling. One may have to go. I don’t know which one. That is the problem, I like all of them. I can’t imagine not doing ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and I can’t imagine not doing ‘X Factor.’ But I guess America (Idol) is more likely to go because I have got one year under contract. Maybe that will be the end.”
“I don’t want to come over as whiney because I am very grateful that I have got these jobs, But there is a point where I am not sure we can keep this schedule up. It takes longer and longer to make these shows because you have to put more into them, and I am not sure we can sustain me doing three shows a year, with the record label and the TV production company.”
In addition to being a judge on “American Idol,” Simon is also a judge on “X Factor” and “Britain’s Got Talent” which airs in Europe.
I’m sure Simon is a very busy guy, but I think he’s bluffing. I don’t think he will ever leave “American Idol” regardless of how busy his schedule is. It has become the ultimate cash cow for him.
Remember last year, when Paula Abdul threatened to leave “American Idol?” She quickly came to her senses and showed up to the taping of the show.
Tim Henley
Quentin Tarantino will be on American Idol
Film director Quentin Tarantino will be the guest on Tuesday’s episode of “American Idol” (April 14).
This week’s theme is Songs of Cinema, and the contestants will be sing songs that were featured in movies.
Tarantino will mentor the contestants. Tarantino directed “Pulp Fiction” “Kill Bill” and “Jackie Brown.”
He also served as a guest judge on American Idol during season three.
Tim Henley
Frankie Avalon became ill before his American Idol performance
If you watched Wednesday’s episode of American Idol, you saw singer Frankie Avalon perform his song “Venus.”
Avalon told Access Hollywood that 20 minutes before the show began, an ambulance was called for him because he started shaking.
Avalon said he got the shakes because the only thing he ate during the entire day was a bag of red candy.
Avalon regained his composure, and he performed on the show, and no one ever knew anything was wrong.
Hmmm. It sounds to me like Frankie is on that anorexic diet that Mary Kate and Ashley Olson are on. No one can survive on only one bag of red candy.
Click here for more celebrity headlines.
Tim Henley
Kellie Pickler will perform on American Idol
Country singer and “American Idol” graduate Kellie Pickler will perform on Wednesday’s episode of “American Idol.”
Pickler placed sixth on season five in 2006. She has since released two country albums.
During Tuesday’s episode, the remaining contestants will perform songs that were released during the year they were born.
Tim Henley
David Cook will return to American Idol
Sesason 7 “American Idol” winner David Cook is returning to the show next week April.
Cook will perform his latest single “Come Back To Me.” Pop singer Lady GaGa also will perform on the show that night.
The theme for American Idol next week is Top Dowloads, where contestants will perform songs that are the most downloaded.
Tim Henley
The biggest selling American Idol contestants
Which American Idol contestants sold the most albums? It should come as no surprise that orginal Idol winner Kelly Clarkson is the biggest-selling Idol musician closely followed by Carrie Underwood in second place.
The rankings are posted below.
1. Kelly Clarkson - 9.8 million (season one)
2. Carrie Underwood – 9.4 million (season four)
3. Clay Aiken – 4.8 million (season two)
4. Chris Daughtry – 4.4 million (season five)
5. Ruben Studdard – 2.4 million (season two)
6. Fantasia Barrino – 2.3 million (season three)
7. Jordin Sparks – 1.05 million (season six)
8. David Cook – 1.02 million (season seven)
9. Kellie Pickler – 990,000 (season two)
10. Josh Gracin – 780,000 (season two)
11. Bo Bice – 735,000 (season four)
12. Taylor Hicks 719,000 (season five)
13. Jennifer Hudson – 669,000 (season three)
14. David Archuleta – 665,000 (season seven)
15. Elliott Yamin – 630,000 (season five)
