Ruben Studdard

Ruben Studdard, the one-time American Idol winner, might be adding another reality television title to his trophy cabinet, with the portly star signing up to appear on the next season of the weigh-loss series The Biggest Loser. Long characterised by his bulky stature, the singer will look to re-invent himself and save his health by appearing on the NBC reality series.

Ruben has long had to battle with his weight

Affectionately known as the 'Velvet Teddy Bear' from his time on American Idol, Ruben has tried in the past to bring his weight under control, but has failed with each of his past attempts. Now he wants to have one more go and this time in front of the cameras. Ruben appeared on American Idol in 2003 when he emerged as the winner of the second season of the on-going talent contest.

Continue reading: Ruben Studdard To Appear On The Next Season Of The Biggest Loser

American Idol is at the centre of a racism lawsuit after it was claimed black contestants were booted from the hit talent show as a direct result of discrimination. TMZ.com obtained a letter filed with the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by New York lawyer James H Freeman, which accused the show of deliberately exploiting black contestants to improve ratings.

Entertainment lawyer Freeman requested permission to sue American Idol and Fox on behalf of nine former singing contestants who believe they were forced from the competition because of their race. His clients include Corey Clark, Jaered Andrews, Donnie Williams, Terrell Brittenum, Derrell Brittenum, Thomas Daniels, Akron Watson, Ju'Not Joyner and Chris Golightly. Freeman says he noticed something was awry when Jermaine Jones was kicked off the show in March 2012, with producers claiming he was disqualified because he had not told the show there were outstanding warrants for his arrest. Nine other people had been publically disqualified from the show: all were black. 

Three black contestants have won the show, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino and Jordin Sparks, while prominent judge Randy Jackson is black. Season two contestant Corey Clark sued MTV for $40 million in 2012 for their coverage of his disqualification from the show. 

Continue reading: Were American Idol Contestants Booted Because Of The Color Of Their Skin?