Ruben Studdard will appear on the celebrity weigh-loss series The Biggest Loser next season - airing this fall
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.
Three years after his win on Idol, Ruben began an intensive weight-loss program with personal trainer to the stars Gunnar Peterson, losing only 12 lbs. before he decided to quit the health plan. Rather than reverting to his old ways though Ruben discovered vegetarianism and through changing his diet and introducing regular but undemanding exercise to his daily routine, eventually losing 70 lbs. by the end of 2006. He remained relatively healthy and continued to keep his weight in check until 2012 following his divorce from wife of four years, Surata Zuri McCants.
The singer wants to get his weight under control for good
Ruben released a statement today upon the announcement of his commitment to the show. He said, "I've never had an issue with my weight, [but] my family has a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart-related issues – things I didn't have to deal with yet because I'm young. But I don't want to be worried at 40, and if I don't fix things now, I will be."
The Biggest Loser will return to NBC on Tuesdays nights this fall.
Ruben was left heart-broken after his divorce in 2012