Recently, a former American Idol contestant made headlines as she filed a lawsuit against the ABC show. It’s not the first time the competition has landed in hot water in the last 20 years. Here’s more on the lawsuit, plus other American Idol scandals and controversies that have haunted the singing show since it began in 2002.
‘American Idol’ logo | Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images A contestant of ‘American Idol’ Season 20 is suing the producers
Last year, a gaming live-streamer named Normandy Vamos auditioned for American Idol Season 20. She left an impression on judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan with her unique fashion sense and high-pitched speaking voice that changed into a deep, soulful sound as she sang. Vamos earned a golden ticket to Hollywood but later claimed she was uninvited. Her audition also went viral.
Fast-forward to February of this year, when news broke that Vamos was filing...
‘American Idol’ logo | Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images A contestant of ‘American Idol’ Season 20 is suing the producers
Last year, a gaming live-streamer named Normandy Vamos auditioned for American Idol Season 20. She left an impression on judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan with her unique fashion sense and high-pitched speaking voice that changed into a deep, soulful sound as she sang. Vamos earned a golden ticket to Hollywood but later claimed she was uninvited. Her audition also went viral.
Fast-forward to February of this year, when news broke that Vamos was filing...
- 3/3/2023
- by Elise Nelson
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
"American Idol" is being sued by 10 black former contestants, claiming they were kicked off the show in their respective seasons because of their race, TMZ was the first to report.
The plaintiffs are Season 2's Corey Clark, who was disqualified after it was revealed that he was previously arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery on police officers and his sister, as well as endangering the life of a child; Season 2's Jaered Andrews, who was also dismissed following the discovery of an assault charge stemming from a fatal bar fight; Season 2's Jacob John Smalley, who was eliminated early on in his season; Season 3's Donnie Williams, who was pulled from the show after an arrest for speeding and drunk driving while "Idol" was filming; Season 5's twin brothers Terrell Brittenum and Derrell Brittenum, who were cut after executives learned of an arrest and charges of identity theft; Season 6's Thomas Daniels,...
The plaintiffs are Season 2's Corey Clark, who was disqualified after it was revealed that he was previously arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery on police officers and his sister, as well as endangering the life of a child; Season 2's Jaered Andrews, who was also dismissed following the discovery of an assault charge stemming from a fatal bar fight; Season 2's Jacob John Smalley, who was eliminated early on in his season; Season 3's Donnie Williams, who was pulled from the show after an arrest for speeding and drunk driving while "Idol" was filming; Season 5's twin brothers Terrell Brittenum and Derrell Brittenum, who were cut after executives learned of an arrest and charges of identity theft; Season 6's Thomas Daniels,...
- 7/25/2013
- by Jaimie Etkin
- Huffington Post
Nine black, former "American Idol" contestants have reportedly accused the Fox series of racism and are planning to sue.
TMZ obtained a letter submitted to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by New York attorney James Freeman, requesting permission to sue Fox and the show on behalf of his nine clients. In the letter, Freeman claims there is a racist pattern in the "Idol" disqualification process.
Freeman alleges that only nine "Idol" contestants had been publicly disqualified since the show debuted in 2002, and all happened to be black. He claims the show enacted a "cruel and inhumane" scheme, which included background checks and arrest inquiries, to humiliate the contestants on live TV and perpetuate "destructive stereotypes" that made his clients appear to be "violent criminals, liars and sexual deviants."
Nigel Lythgoe, producer of "American Idol," told TMZ he was "shocked" by the "ridiculous" allegations.
Visit TMZ's site for the...
TMZ obtained a letter submitted to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by New York attorney James Freeman, requesting permission to sue Fox and the show on behalf of his nine clients. In the letter, Freeman claims there is a racist pattern in the "Idol" disqualification process.
Freeman alleges that only nine "Idol" contestants had been publicly disqualified since the show debuted in 2002, and all happened to be black. He claims the show enacted a "cruel and inhumane" scheme, which included background checks and arrest inquiries, to humiliate the contestants on live TV and perpetuate "destructive stereotypes" that made his clients appear to be "violent criminals, liars and sexual deviants."
Nigel Lythgoe, producer of "American Idol," told TMZ he was "shocked" by the "ridiculous" allegations.
Visit TMZ's site for the...
- 1/25/2013
- by The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
New York attorney James H. Freeman has submitted a letter to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in which he asks for permission to sue "American Idol" and Fox on behalf of nine contestants, claiming a racist plot to boost ratings, reports TMZ.
The nine contestants are Corey Clark (Season 2), Jaered Andrews (Season 2), Donnie Williams (Season 3), Terrell and Derrell Brittenum (Season 5), Thomas Daniels (Season 6), Akron Watson (Season 6), Ju'Not Joyner (Season 8) and Chris Golightly (Season 9).
Related: 'Idol' Season 12 pics
Freeman claims he became suspicious of "Idol" when Jermaine Jones was kicked off the show in 2012, during Season 11. Producers claimed it was because Jones failed to inform them about outstanding warrants for his arrest. Freeman alleges that "Idol" has been conducting a "cruel and inhumane" scheme to exploit black contestants for ratings.
The show's background check includes the question "Have you ever been arrested," which Freeman claims violates California employment law,...
The nine contestants are Corey Clark (Season 2), Jaered Andrews (Season 2), Donnie Williams (Season 3), Terrell and Derrell Brittenum (Season 5), Thomas Daniels (Season 6), Akron Watson (Season 6), Ju'Not Joyner (Season 8) and Chris Golightly (Season 9).
Related: 'Idol' Season 12 pics
Freeman claims he became suspicious of "Idol" when Jermaine Jones was kicked off the show in 2012, during Season 11. Producers claimed it was because Jones failed to inform them about outstanding warrants for his arrest. Freeman alleges that "Idol" has been conducting a "cruel and inhumane" scheme to exploit black contestants for ratings.
The show's background check includes the question "Have you ever been arrested," which Freeman claims violates California employment law,...
- 1/25/2013
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
New York -- Broadway's newest Annie is an 11-year-old from Los Angeles with long, black curly hair who is already a Broadway veteran.
Lilla Crawford was unveiled Friday as the girl slated to play the title role in a fall revival of the Tony Award-winning musical "Annie."
"I'm not nervous, but I am definitely so excited to start the whole process," Crawford said in an interview. "It's going to be so fun."
Crawford, who has performed in more than a dozen shows with the Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts in her native Los Angeles, made her Broadway debut in 2011 playing Debbie in the closing cast of "Billy Elliot." That experience will help as she adjusts to the star's dressing room.
"I kind of know what's coming but it's going to be exciting and new because I'm going to be part of the original cast," she said. "It's definitely going to be exciting.
Lilla Crawford was unveiled Friday as the girl slated to play the title role in a fall revival of the Tony Award-winning musical "Annie."
"I'm not nervous, but I am definitely so excited to start the whole process," Crawford said in an interview. "It's going to be so fun."
Crawford, who has performed in more than a dozen shows with the Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts in her native Los Angeles, made her Broadway debut in 2011 playing Debbie in the closing cast of "Billy Elliot." That experience will help as she adjusts to the star's dressing room.
"I kind of know what's coming but it's going to be exciting and new because I'm going to be part of the original cast," she said. "It's definitely going to be exciting.
- 4/28/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
By Derrik J. Lang
Jermaine Jones is apparently out on "American Idol."
The 25-year-old vocal instructor from Pine Hill, N.J., tweeted Tuesday night that he no longer would be on the Fox singing contest.
The Hollywood Reporter said Jones tweeted, "Awww I will no longer b on the show." His Twitter account has since been deleted.
A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment on the matter or confirm his tweet.
TMZ reports Jones will be kicked off during the Wed., March 14 broadcast. He allegedly hid a criminal record -- an incident involved violence -- from producers who then confronted Jones on camera. In addition to hiding his criminal past, TMZ said Jones lied to cops by giving them fake names after arrests.
Jones reportedly has outstanding warrants.
Following the selection of the Top 24, the so-called "gentle giant," as he was dubbed by "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest, was among the show's...
Jermaine Jones is apparently out on "American Idol."
The 25-year-old vocal instructor from Pine Hill, N.J., tweeted Tuesday night that he no longer would be on the Fox singing contest.
The Hollywood Reporter said Jones tweeted, "Awww I will no longer b on the show." His Twitter account has since been deleted.
A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment on the matter or confirm his tweet.
TMZ reports Jones will be kicked off during the Wed., March 14 broadcast. He allegedly hid a criminal record -- an incident involved violence -- from producers who then confronted Jones on camera. In addition to hiding his criminal past, TMZ said Jones lied to cops by giving them fake names after arrests.
Jones reportedly has outstanding warrants.
Following the selection of the Top 24, the so-called "gentle giant," as he was dubbed by "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest, was among the show's...
- 3/14/2012
- by AP/The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
Los Angeles (AP) -- Jermaine Jones is apparently out on "American Idol.'' The 25-year-old vocal instructor from Pine Hill, N.J., tweeted Tuesday night that he no longer would be on the Fox singing contest. He wrote on his official "Idol'' Twitter account: "Awww I will no longer b on the show.'' The post and Jones' official "Idol'' Twitter account were later deleted. A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment on the matter or confirm his tweet. The so-called "gentle giant,'' as he was dubbed by "Idol'' host Ryan Seacrest, was among the show's viewer-selected top 13 finalists after the judges gave him a last-minute spot among the 11th season's top 13 male semifinalists. He was among the bottom three vote-getters last week after performing Stevie Wonder's "Knocks Me Off My Feet'' but advanced to the group of top 12 singers. "Idol'' contestants in the past...
- 3/14/2012
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
By Derrik J. Lang
Jermaine Jones is apparently out on "American Idol."
The 25-year-old vocal instructor from Pine Hill, N.J., tweeted Tuesday night that he no longer would be on the Fox singing contest.
The Hollywood Reporter said Jones tweeted, "Awww I will no longer b on the show." His Twitter account has since been deleted.
A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment on the matter or confirm his tweet.
TMZ reports Jones will be kicked off during the Wed., March 14 broadcast. He allegedly hid a criminal record -- an incident involved violence -- from producers who then confronted Jones on camera. In addition to hiding his criminal past, TMZ said Jones lied to cops by giving them fake names after arrests.
Jones reportedly has outstanding warrants.
Following the selection of the Top 24, the so-called "gentle giant," as he was dubbed by "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest, was among the show's...
Jermaine Jones is apparently out on "American Idol."
The 25-year-old vocal instructor from Pine Hill, N.J., tweeted Tuesday night that he no longer would be on the Fox singing contest.
The Hollywood Reporter said Jones tweeted, "Awww I will no longer b on the show." His Twitter account has since been deleted.
A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment on the matter or confirm his tweet.
TMZ reports Jones will be kicked off during the Wed., March 14 broadcast. He allegedly hid a criminal record -- an incident involved violence -- from producers who then confronted Jones on camera. In addition to hiding his criminal past, TMZ said Jones lied to cops by giving them fake names after arrests.
Jones reportedly has outstanding warrants.
Following the selection of the Top 24, the so-called "gentle giant," as he was dubbed by "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest, was among the show's...
- 3/14/2012
- by AP/The Huffington Post
- Aol TV.
It's a match made in dancing heaven -- TooFab has confirmed " Dancing with the Stars " pro Mark Ballas and " So You Think You Can Dance " winner Jeanine Mason are dating. Though he's shaking it with Bristol Palin this season on the show, Mark was caught spending his after-rehearsal time with 19-year-old Mason last night at Mastro's Steakhouse . The two were on their first date at the pricey Beverly Hills restaurant on Thursday ... and we hear it went really well! Ballas was previously linked to " American Idol " contestant Joanna Pacitti . For more celebrity fabulosity, including Twitter-only updates, follow TooFab at Twitter.com/TooFab . And for even more glamour, head to Facebook.com/TooFab . Read more...
- 10/8/2010
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Poor Mark Ballas. Not only were he and his celebrity partner Shannen Doherty the first to get booted this season on ABC's hit show, but the 23-year-old ballroom vet has also been nursing a knee injury suffered during rehearsals for Dwts. But is a li'l bruised ego and a bummed leg the only things out of step for Mr. Ballas these days? Nope! Read on for more tales of the curse... Less than a year ago, Ballas told us his then-girlfriend, Joanna Pacitti, of American Idol fame, was "definitely the one." Today, Ballas is waltzing to a different beat. "We're no longer together," he told us last night at L.A.'s The Mint, where he was performing songs from his new CD,...
- 4/13/2010
- E! Online
From Frenchie Davis and Corey Clark to Joanna Pacitti, several hopefuls have been yanked from the 'Idol' stage.
By Gil Kaufman
Chris Golightly
Photo: Ray Mickshaw
Though it's probably no consolation, Chris Golightly has plenty of company in the ranks of "American Idol" hopefuls who've been disqualified from the show after making it through the grueling Hollywood rounds.
Golightly was cryptically Dq'd from the show on Wednesday — despite appearing in the group shot of the top 24 near the show's end — after producers determined that he was "ineligible" to continue in the competition. According to reports, the former foster child was unable to clear up a discrepancy about a former contract and was replaced by floppy-haired Tim Urban at the last minute. No mention was made on the show about the disqualification, nor about the rumored elimination of burly personal trainer Michael Lynche, who appeared to make the top 24 despite reports...
By Gil Kaufman
Chris Golightly
Photo: Ray Mickshaw
Though it's probably no consolation, Chris Golightly has plenty of company in the ranks of "American Idol" hopefuls who've been disqualified from the show after making it through the grueling Hollywood rounds.
Golightly was cryptically Dq'd from the show on Wednesday — despite appearing in the group shot of the top 24 near the show's end — after producers determined that he was "ineligible" to continue in the competition. According to reports, the former foster child was unable to clear up a discrepancy about a former contract and was replaced by floppy-haired Tim Urban at the last minute. No mention was made on the show about the disqualification, nor about the rumored elimination of burly personal trainer Michael Lynche, who appeared to make the top 24 despite reports...
- 2/18/2010
- MTV Music News
Singer replaced with Tim Urban, reportedly due to confusion over previous boy-band contract.
By Gil Kaufman
Chris Golightly
Photo: Fox
Let the drama begin. As if the two-night Hollywood rounds finale weren't already filled with enough joy, heartache and tears, "American Idol" producers threw one last twist into the mix at the end of Wednesday night's program by pulling a top 24 switcheroo.
After picking seven of the top 24 on Tuesday night, the judges culled the herd down on Wednesday to carve out the remaining 17 semifinalists, which appeared to include curly-haired Chris Golightly, whom we met at the Los Angeles auditions, where he talked about bouncing around between 25 foster homes as a child.
Golightly was seen in the group shot near the end of the show — at which point only 11 boys had been chosen on screen. But during the traditional finalist introduction dance segment that closes Hollywood, he was inexplicably replaced by Tim Urban.
By Gil Kaufman
Chris Golightly
Photo: Fox
Let the drama begin. As if the two-night Hollywood rounds finale weren't already filled with enough joy, heartache and tears, "American Idol" producers threw one last twist into the mix at the end of Wednesday night's program by pulling a top 24 switcheroo.
After picking seven of the top 24 on Tuesday night, the judges culled the herd down on Wednesday to carve out the remaining 17 semifinalists, which appeared to include curly-haired Chris Golightly, whom we met at the Los Angeles auditions, where he talked about bouncing around between 25 foster homes as a child.
Golightly was seen in the group shot near the end of the show — at which point only 11 boys had been chosen on screen. But during the traditional finalist introduction dance segment that closes Hollywood, he was inexplicably replaced by Tim Urban.
- 2/18/2010
- MTV Music News
Michael Lynche has reportedly been cut from the final 24 American Idol contestants, after his dad gave an interview to a local newspaper.
Michael made it through the Orlando round of auditions and on past the Hollywood stage, but his dad told The St. Petersburg Times, that he had made the top 24, violating AI rules.
If Lynche’s disqualification is true, it is the second year running that a finalist has been cut from the lineup. Last year, Joanna Pacitti, was sent off after making the top 36 when producers said it had been determined that she “is ineligible to continue in the competition.” She was then replaced by Felicia Barton.
Related posts:American Idol To Have Michael Jackson WeekAmerican Idol 2010: Final 24 revealed?American Idol: Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez & Lil Rounds Get Through To Final 12Kanye West To Appear On This Weeks American IdolAmerican Idol: Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey...
Michael made it through the Orlando round of auditions and on past the Hollywood stage, but his dad told The St. Petersburg Times, that he had made the top 24, violating AI rules.
If Lynche’s disqualification is true, it is the second year running that a finalist has been cut from the lineup. Last year, Joanna Pacitti, was sent off after making the top 36 when producers said it had been determined that she “is ineligible to continue in the competition.” She was then replaced by Felicia Barton.
Related posts:American Idol To Have Michael Jackson WeekAmerican Idol 2010: Final 24 revealed?American Idol: Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez & Lil Rounds Get Through To Final 12Kanye West To Appear On This Weeks American IdolAmerican Idol: Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey...
- 1/27/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Floridian Michael Lynche was reportedly tossed when his father breached the show's confidentiality agreement.
By Gil Kaufman
Disqualified contestant Michael Lynche
Photo: Fox
We're almost three weeks away from the start of Hollywood Week (February 17), but it appears that "American Idol" has already lost one of its top 24 contenders. Word has been circulating for days that St. Petersburg, Florida, singer Michael Lynche — who auditioned in Orlando — allegedly made the cut but was then dropped after his dad, Marque Lynche Sr., told a local newspaper about the event.
In keeping with their veil of secrecy about internal goings-on, spokespeople for "Idol" could not be reached at press time to confirm whether Lynche has made the top 24 or has been dropped from it. But the St. Petersburg Times reported last Wednesday that Lynche — whose mother works for the paper — may have made the top 24. It was reported that Lynche's dad had confirmed the information about his son.
By Gil Kaufman
Disqualified contestant Michael Lynche
Photo: Fox
We're almost three weeks away from the start of Hollywood Week (February 17), but it appears that "American Idol" has already lost one of its top 24 contenders. Word has been circulating for days that St. Petersburg, Florida, singer Michael Lynche — who auditioned in Orlando — allegedly made the cut but was then dropped after his dad, Marque Lynche Sr., told a local newspaper about the event.
In keeping with their veil of secrecy about internal goings-on, spokespeople for "Idol" could not be reached at press time to confirm whether Lynche has made the top 24 or has been dropped from it. But the St. Petersburg Times reported last Wednesday that Lynche — whose mother works for the paper — may have made the top 24. It was reported that Lynche's dad had confirmed the information about his son.
- 1/26/2010
- MTV Music News
People reports that American Idol golden-ticket winner Michael "Big Mike" Lynche has been cut from the competition after his father told The St. Petersburg Times that he'd advanced to the Top 24. Ouch. Last season a similar cut occurred (for less evident reasons) with contestant Joanna Pacitti. God, I just wish Lynche had a different, but very similar talent competition where he could redeem himself. Come on, Simon, hook this gentleman up with a Robert Pattinson duet -- for real. [People]...
- 1/25/2010
- Movieline
Struck by recession, the TV world ceased to inflate a full-blown season in 2009. In order to keep the budget slim, many shows reluctantly reduced the number of star appearances and the networks were forced to carefully select those which will gain them profit and ratings. This led to many actor exits as well as mediocre show cancellations. AceShowbiz is taking its readers for a time travel to the year that was particularly hard on entertainment industry, beginning with the first quarter.
January
What started with a big bang, "Prison Break" had to swallow bitter pill when Fox decided to pull the plug after four years in the running. The series starring Wentworth Miller took a sharp plunge in the transition from third (8.2 million) to fourth (5.3 million) season, which prompted the network to order two additional episodes as a mean of conclusion to the whole drama. "The show is just played out,...
January
What started with a big bang, "Prison Break" had to swallow bitter pill when Fox decided to pull the plug after four years in the running. The series starring Wentworth Miller took a sharp plunge in the transition from third (8.2 million) to fourth (5.3 million) season, which prompted the network to order two additional episodes as a mean of conclusion to the whole drama. "The show is just played out,...
- 12/28/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Will Mark Ballas bring his real-life romance to the dance floor? The Dancing With the Stars pro hoofer's girlfriend, singer Joanna Pacitti, tells us she'd love to compete on ABC's hit cha-cha competition show. "I would love to do it," Pacitti, 25, told us at this weekend's Project Angel Food benefit in L.A. "I love watching him. It brings the biggest smile to my face, so I can't imagine how happy I'd be dancing with him." The two-time disco-ball-trophy-winning Ballas, 23, is in favor of the idea, too... "She'd be very, very good," he said. "We'd have a really good time. We were actually doing the waltz in our living room last...
- 10/19/2009
- E! Online
Will their first dance be a jive? Maybe a tango? What about a waltz? Dancing With the Stars pro Mark Ballas says his girlfriend, former American Idol wannabe Joanna Pacitti, 24, is the woman he plans to marry. "She's definitely the one," Mark, 22, told us at the TV Moves! 2 Live event in L.A. "She's the best." Even if he isn't getting down one knee just yet, Mark already has the big day planned out... "My dream wedding would be somewhere tropical like Bora Bora or Hawaii, on the beach, barefoot," he said. "She'll have a white dress draping along the sand, barefoot, with little ukuleles. I could go on all day." And, of...
- 7/23/2009
- E! Online
The third and final batch of 12 hopefuls in "American Idol", are giving their last shot to vie for a stool in the Top 12. Performing on Tuesday, March 3 are the candidate who replaces disqualified Joanna Pacitti, the blind guy and mother of three who wants to get her family back to their feet after tornado demolished their house.
First in line is Von Smith who has a rather extravagant stage act while in audition rounds. He sings Marvin Gaye's "You All I Need to Get By", and apparently struggles not to scream by making his voice softer. The judges love it, with Simon Cowell commenting, "You remind me of Clay Aiken".
Taylor Vaifanua is only 17 but she is taller than anybody there. She is up next, singing Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You". Kara DioGuardi thinks the performance doesn't show her personality and Randy Jackson says it straightforwardly,...
First in line is Von Smith who has a rather extravagant stage act while in audition rounds. He sings Marvin Gaye's "You All I Need to Get By", and apparently struggles not to scream by making his voice softer. The judges love it, with Simon Cowell commenting, "You remind me of Clay Aiken".
Taylor Vaifanua is only 17 but she is taller than anybody there. She is up next, singing Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You". Kara DioGuardi thinks the performance doesn't show her personality and Randy Jackson says it straightforwardly,...
- 3/4/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson says she won't need a lucky charm when she competes on "Dancing with the Stars." "I don't believe in lucky charms," she tells "The Insider." "I have never had one and I probably never will. I am my lucky charm." The 17-year-old, who is the youngest-ever competitor on the hit ABC series, is having a scary day when "The Insider" visits her rehearsal. Her professional partner, Mark Ballas is teaching her the salsa and it is her most difficult dance to date. "The scary part is letting myself go," she admits. But other than her bout of nerves, Shawn is doing great. To date, she has experienced no injuries. Of course, her Olympic gymnastic training requires similar intense training, so the fact that she and Mark are in the rehearsal hall five hours a day is not as big a strain on her as it is with others.
- 2/26/2009
- by TheInsider
- TheInsider.com
"Dancing with the Stars" performer Mark Ballas opens up to Et about his romance with former "American Idol" contestant Joanna Pacitti. "We've been together for awhile. I am the happiest I have ever been." Mark tells Et of his relationship with Joanna. "She is so supportive. She is so fun." The two met when Ballas was training Kristi Yamaguchi on season six of "Dwts." Prior to his relationship with Joanna, Mark was seeing his former dance partner Sabrina Bryan of the Cheetah Girls. Joanna was replaced on "Idol" after she was declared ineligible to compete on the show. Et confirmed that Pacitti already had a record deal preceding her audition for the hit music reality show and also has performance credits. The couple was just spotted at the world premiere of the 'Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience.' His band Ballas Hough Band will be releasing their album Bhb on Mar.
- 2/25/2009
- by TheInsider
- TheInsider.com
• Dancing With the Stars' Mark Ballas and the one with all the eyeliner who got kicked off America Idol Joanna Pacitti are dating now. Depending on how that works out, this could be Joanna's last, best shot to score a Star cover. Dream big, kids. • The Jonas Brothers are smart boys—they're not going to fall for Us' Jen Aniston vs. Angelina bait. • When you bail out on your Broadway run citing mercury poisoning via sushi, you might have to go to actor's court. • Sean Penn's response to Madonna's new friend Jesus was pretty classic: "Another kid already?" • Katie Holmes is starring in the real-life Changeling. Where is Suri...
- 2/25/2009
- E! Online
“American Idol” (7 p.m. Central Time Tuesday, Wfld-Ch. 32) has narrowed down the contestant pool to 36 singers, and the first dozen from that group will show off their skills—or lack thereof—during Tuesday’s two-hour program. In the next two Tuesday episodes, we'll see two more groups of 12 strut their stuff. Of course, the whittling-down process created some controversy. But what would “Idol” be without controversy? It is—even more than singing ability—the lifeblood of the talent show. Though contestant Joanna Pacitti appeared to make it through to the final group last week, when Fox sent out its list of the...
- 2/17/2009
- by Tempo
- The Watcher
American Idol host Ryan Seacrest has defended the decision to disqualify Joanna Pacitti from the competition. The presenter confirmed reports that Pacitti was axed because a "link" was discovered between the 24-year-old and executives at Idol's production company 19 Entertainment. Speaking to Fox News, Seacrest explained: "The producers do the background checks right around Hollywood [round]. When they see something that stands out, they have to address it. "And they saw something, and there was apparently some sort (more)...
- 2/14/2009
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Joannna Pacitti's disqualification from "American Idol" Top 36 remains a mystery to many when Fox announced shortly after the telecast of the Top 36 announcement was aired on Wednesday, February 11. While Fox are still mum on that, host Ryan Seacrest is kind enough to spill something.
Attending "The American Idol Experience" opening gala on Thursday, February 12, Seacrest said that there's a link between Pacitti and two executives that the producers don't want to risk. "The producers do the background checks right around Hollywood (Week round). When they see something that stands out, they have to address it," Seacrest told Fox News.
"And they saw something, and there was apparently some sort of a link that, somewhere along the line, could be construed as one that's close to the competition, and they didn't want to risk it," he continued. This indirectly goes in rhyme with Star Magazine's report claiming that the singer has...
Attending "The American Idol Experience" opening gala on Thursday, February 12, Seacrest said that there's a link between Pacitti and two executives that the producers don't want to risk. "The producers do the background checks right around Hollywood (Week round). When they see something that stands out, they have to address it," Seacrest told Fox News.
"And they saw something, and there was apparently some sort of a link that, somewhere along the line, could be construed as one that's close to the competition, and they didn't want to risk it," he continued. This indirectly goes in rhyme with Star Magazine's report claiming that the singer has...
- 2/14/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
American Idol hopeful Joanna Pacitti has been kicked off the U.S. talent show after producers discovered she's a professional.
The singer, who was among the season eight finalists on the show, has been disqualified due to her past history in the music business.
Idol bosses have declared that Pacitti is "ineligible to continue in the competition".
Pacitti had a record deal with A&M/Geffen, which released her debut album, This Crazy Life, in 2006, and she also toured as support to Nick Lachey.
Her songs have appeared on movie soundtracks and have been covered by artists like Britney Spears.
It's another major let down for Pacitti, who missed out on the lead role in a national tour of Annie, as a child, when she contracted bronchitis.
The singer, who was among the season eight finalists on the show, has been disqualified due to her past history in the music business.
Idol bosses have declared that Pacitti is "ineligible to continue in the competition".
Pacitti had a record deal with A&M/Geffen, which released her debut album, This Crazy Life, in 2006, and she also toured as support to Nick Lachey.
Her songs have appeared on movie soundtracks and have been covered by artists like Britney Spears.
It's another major let down for Pacitti, who missed out on the lead role in a national tour of Annie, as a child, when she contracted bronchitis.
- 2/12/2009
- WENN
It's still early in the season, but already "American Idol" is getting its controversy on. Over the years, the show has been no stranger to having things go a bit awry with its contestants - there was Corey Clark, the one who claimed he had an affair with Paula Abdul (shudder) and Frenchie Davis, the one who got kicked off when her history of too-sexy internet photographs was discovered. Now, Joanna Pacitti has become the latest "Idol" contestant to fall victim to the "Idol" scandal curse. The details are a bit vague, but still as strange as ever.On Wednesday night, we all watched as the "on the verge of having a mental breakd ...
- 2/12/2009
- by By Actress Archives
"American Idol" producers have replaced show contestant Joanna Pacitti as one of its Top 36 after declaring her ineligible to compete on the show. "It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition. 'American Idol' contestant Felicia Barton has replaced Ms. Pacitti as part of the Top 36," a Fox press release said, without stating a reason for the disqualification. It was well known that Pacitti had signed a deal with A & M Records prior to auditioning for the hit music reality show. The change gives a new chance to Barton, 26, who is from Virginia Beach, Va.
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- 2/12/2009
- by TheInsider
- TheInsider.com
Joanna Pacitti has been disqualified from the current series of American Idol. Fox said in a statement that the 24-year-old was considered to be "ineligible to continue in the competition", although Billboard reports that no further explanation was given. Show bosses earlier came under fire from some viewers for allowing the singer to take part when she has previously landed a record deal. Judge Kara DioGuardi later defended the decision, claiming that no rules were broken. Pacitti's first single 'Let It Slide' was released under Geffen Records in May 2006, with her debut album This (more)...
- 2/12/2009
- by By Sarah Rollo
- Digital Spy
American Idol just named its Top 36 Wednesday, but you won't get to vote for one of them.
Joanna Pacitti, who has been hotly debated on Idol fansites because of her former record deal with A&M Records, has been booted from the competition, according to a Fox press release. "It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," the statement read. No further explanation was offered.
In addition to chatter about Pacitti's previous recording career ...
Read More >...
Joanna Pacitti, who has been hotly debated on Idol fansites because of her former record deal with A&M Records, has been booted from the competition, according to a Fox press release. "It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," the statement read. No further explanation was offered.
In addition to chatter about Pacitti's previous recording career ...
Read More >...
- 2/12/2009
- by Adam Bryant
- TVGuide - Breaking News
It wouldn't be an "American Idol" season without a little controversy.
Early judges favorite Joanna Pacitti has been removed from the competition even though Wednesday night's episode showed her advance through the semifinals despite fumbling the lyrics of all three songs during Hollywood Week.
"It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," Fox's Wednesday night press release announcing the semifinalists said.
Pacitti was an early target of outrage among "Idol" fans, who complained that she didn't fit within the amateur singing competition status of the show with previous record label deal, an album and music videos -- a throwback to Season 7's Carly Smithson who made it to the top six last year.
But sources said it was ultimately Pacitti's recently revealed friendship with executives from Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment, which co-produces "Idol," that got her the boot after she failed to disclose it.
Early judges favorite Joanna Pacitti has been removed from the competition even though Wednesday night's episode showed her advance through the semifinals despite fumbling the lyrics of all three songs during Hollywood Week.
"It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," Fox's Wednesday night press release announcing the semifinalists said.
Pacitti was an early target of outrage among "Idol" fans, who complained that she didn't fit within the amateur singing competition status of the show with previous record label deal, an album and music videos -- a throwback to Season 7's Carly Smithson who made it to the top six last year.
But sources said it was ultimately Pacitti's recently revealed friendship with executives from Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment, which co-produces "Idol," that got her the boot after she failed to disclose it.
- 2/12/2009
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Last night the group of American Idol hopefuls was whiddled doen to a remaining 36 contestants. They each headed over to the judges mansion and sat before them, one by one, to learn their judgement as to whether they were staying in the competition or not. We agreed with most of the judge’s choices. And when Simon and the crew weren’t 100% positive about someone, they’d pit them against another hopeful in a sing-off. Each time that resulted in one person staying and one tearfully saying goodbye. But one person in particular was not subject to...
- 2/12/2009
- Hollyscoop.com
Following protests from viewers and bloggers on the inclusion of 23-year-old Joanna Pacitti into "American Idol", new report surfaces that the contestant has actually been disqualified. Right after the telecast that reveal the Top 36 where Joanna is admitted, Fox announce that the Philadelphia native is "ineligible".
It became a controversy last month when Pacitti was handed a golden ticket to Hollywood despite the fact that she has performed more than a hundred times as the titular character of "Annie" in Broadway when she was 11. She was even signed to A&M Records and her vocal has appeared in several soundtracks to big screen movies.
Landing a verdict to this issue, Fox have decided to pull the string on her participation. "It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," the network announced approximately half an hour after the Wednesday telecast. Missing one leg, the Top...
It became a controversy last month when Pacitti was handed a golden ticket to Hollywood despite the fact that she has performed more than a hundred times as the titular character of "Annie" in Broadway when she was 11. She was even signed to A&M Records and her vocal has appeared in several soundtracks to big screen movies.
Landing a verdict to this issue, Fox have decided to pull the string on her participation. "It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," the network announced approximately half an hour after the Wednesday telecast. Missing one leg, the Top...
- 2/12/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
She was an "Annie" and he was "Wicked", but now former theater performers Joanna Pacitti and Adam Lambert are hoping to be "Idols" as they both are among the Top 36 Finalists on Fox's mega hit American Idol. Pacitti, who was hired and then fired from the 20th anniversary production of Annie advanced to the top finalist group on tonight's American Idol, joining her was former Wicked cast member Lambert. Each has been rumored to be "ones to watch" in this year's Idol challenge.
- 2/12/2009
- BroadwayWorld.com
This season of "American Idol" has opened a bigger door for the hopefuls, by taking in 36 instead of the usual 24. During the February 11 episode, these 36 people are announced one by one, through a deliberation where contestants must go through a long narrow passage leading to their fate.
First ones that are let in are Anoop Desai and Von Smith. The judges then have a showdown between Cody and Alexander Wagner-Trugman, asking them to perform any song and the latter does it better, consequently included in the next round while the former goes home. Joining Alex is Adam Lambert who has the voice of a Broadway singer.
Doing an Alicia Keys gets 16-year-old Taylor Vaifanua into another round. Next shown being admitted to the top 36 in a flash are Jasmine Murray, Arianna Afsar, Casey Carlson, Megan Corkrey, Mishavonna Henson and Stevie Wright. Joanna Pacitti who has been criticized to be...
First ones that are let in are Anoop Desai and Von Smith. The judges then have a showdown between Cody and Alexander Wagner-Trugman, asking them to perform any song and the latter does it better, consequently included in the next round while the former goes home. Joining Alex is Adam Lambert who has the voice of a Broadway singer.
Doing an Alicia Keys gets 16-year-old Taylor Vaifanua into another round. Next shown being admitted to the top 36 in a flash are Jasmine Murray, Arianna Afsar, Casey Carlson, Megan Corkrey, Mishavonna Henson and Stevie Wright. Joanna Pacitti who has been criticized to be...
- 2/12/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
The theatrics behind them, the 72 remaining American Idol hopefuls filed in one by one to sing what they hoped would not be their final solos for the discerning ears of Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi and Randy Jackson. The judges didn't have much to say on Tuesday's episode, probably because the performances—and the lyric flubs, meltdowns and flameouts—sang for themselves. Actually, forgetting the words didn't end up hurting those who had already proved their musical mettle, such as record-label castoff Joanna Pacitti; Stephen Fowler, who even messed up his do-over and just walked off the stage dejectedly; and Casey Carlson, who maybe should have inked the words to "Tattoo"...
- 2/11/2009
- E! Online
The names of top 36 "American Idol" hopefuls have been revealed... by the anti-"Idol" fansite VoteForTheWorst.com. Although the official "Idol" bosses have yet to announce the names, the website is confident that they got it right.
According to the site, after the list was sent to them via email, they researched and collaborated with "Idol" spoiler site JoesPlace to make sure they have all the names of the Top 36 correct.
The top 36 contestants will all compete with each other to get into the coveted Top 12 finals, which will be determined by viewers through voting, a first on the show's history.
For those who are keen viewers of the Fox hit reality show, some names would be familiar to them, including Joanna Pacitti, who once had a major label deal, and blind since birth singer/composer Scott MacIntyre.
According to the site, after the list was sent to them via email, they researched and collaborated with "Idol" spoiler site JoesPlace to make sure they have all the names of the Top 36 correct.
The top 36 contestants will all compete with each other to get into the coveted Top 12 finals, which will be determined by viewers through voting, a first on the show's history.
For those who are keen viewers of the Fox hit reality show, some names would be familiar to them, including Joanna Pacitti, who once had a major label deal, and blind since birth singer/composer Scott MacIntyre.
- 2/2/2009
- icelebz.com
The identities of "American Idol" contestants passing the Hollywood round to shape the top 36 have allegedly been outed. An anonymous blogger naming itself Joesplace, had correctly mentioned the names of the semifinalists of last year's batch before the official announcement was made, and it has now displayed the version of this season.
The alleged list includes Joanna Pacitti who had made headlines as the singer who is deemed too acclaimed to enter the competition. Also spotted are the finalists who have made the Hollywood Week round in previous seasons. They are Junot Joyner, Mishavonna Henson and Jessica Langseth. The full names, photo and city of origin are viewable at Joes Place Blog.
"American Idol" is still airing its audition round this week, and will proceed with the first Hollywood Week round on Tuesday, February 3. The Top 36 semifinalists meanwhile, is only scheduled to be revealed on the fourth Hollywood Week which...
The alleged list includes Joanna Pacitti who had made headlines as the singer who is deemed too acclaimed to enter the competition. Also spotted are the finalists who have made the Hollywood Week round in previous seasons. They are Junot Joyner, Mishavonna Henson and Jessica Langseth. The full names, photo and city of origin are viewable at Joes Place Blog.
"American Idol" is still airing its audition round this week, and will proceed with the first Hollywood Week round on Tuesday, February 3. The Top 36 semifinalists meanwhile, is only scheduled to be revealed on the fourth Hollywood Week which...
- 1/31/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi has rejected claims that contestant Joanna Pacitti has an unfair advantage. Viewers recently complained after it emerged that Pacitti had already achieved a relative degree of success as a solo artist, giving her a possible advantage over other contestants. DioGuardi has backed the singer, claiming that she hasn't broken any rules. "I do think it’s fair because she’s facing, actually, the same challenges and in some ways more challenges than some of the other contestants," she told Access Hollywood. "She’s been dropped from a record label, which psychologically puts you in a weird place, right? So, you know, that’s why I think she’s (more)...
- 1/28/2009
- by By David Balls
- Digital Spy
American Idol has come under fire for allowing an 'established' artist to audition for the eighth season. Viewers have complained that contestant Joanna Pacitti should not have been put through to the Hollywood round because she has previously landed a record deal. Fans on the show's website forum are now calling for her to be disqualified. "The point is that because she is a ‘semi-pro’... she already has a built in fan base and voting block. That skews the competition in her favor, especially in the early rounds," poster Marcdamon wrote. 24-year-old Pacitti signed to A&M records and released an album, This (more)...
- 1/26/2009
- by By David Balls
- Digital Spy
An American Idol hopeful who made it through to the Hollywood round has come under fire, with fans of the show even wanting her to be disqualified. B Her name is Joanna Pacitti, a 24-year old from the Louisville, Kentucky audition round, who blew the judges away with her version of Pat Benatar’s We Belong Together. But this isn’t Joanna’s first rodeo. She’s been singing from a very young age. At 11, we was cast as the lead in the Broadway production of Annie, and at 16, as signed to A&M Records, and has...
- 1/23/2009
- Hollyscoop.com
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