American Idol Finalists Claim Show is Not Racist
Posted by Jeffrey Harris on 01.27.2013
Finalists come to defense of the show...
TMZ reports that four American Idol finalists, two of which are black, say the competition is not racist despite criticisms even from Elton John.
Reportedly, nine black ex-contestants are planning to sue producers of the show and claim they were publicly disqualified based on their dubious criminal backgrounds solely because they're African-American.
According to season 6 finalist Melinda Doolittle: "It is shocking to see such allegations. In my experience on the show, the 'Idol' team strives to champion everyone, regardless of race. However, each contestant is explicitly told that the withholding of information that may compromise the show or artist, can and will result in immediate disqualification."
Season 4 finalist Vonzell Solomon says: "I didn't experience any of that [racial discrimination] ... all of our contracts were clear about how the background checks worked and that we could be disqualified if we lied about our past."
Season 5 winner Taylor Hick and Season 10 finalist Casey Abrams also agreed. Casey stated, "I don't know why they are biting the hand that fed them. Those guys beat thousands of people who wanted to be on TV. Idol is picky, but I'm not sure about racist."
Taylor stated, "American Idol is for everyone. All walks of life go through the show. Not once did I see the show discriminate towards anyone. It's all about the votes."
Three black contestants have previously won the show: Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, and Jordin Sparks.
