American Idol: Scandal or Puffery?

Former Idol contestant Corey Clark, 24, told The Globe that he had an affair with Idol judge Paula Abdul, 42, during his campaign in season two – an affair he discusses in detail in a book that he is shopping to publishers. For those of you who might not remember Clark, he was the contestant kicked off the show for allegedly beating his sister and resisting arrest – and more importantly for not telling Idol producers about his legal issues. The assault charges against him were eventually dismissed in June 2003, too late for his Idol purposes. He did, however, plead guilty to “obstruction of legal process” and was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation.

Recently, Clark alleged that Abdul offered to be his “special friend,” and that she swore him to secrecy, cautioning, “Don't screw me or you'll be sorry." Abdul supposedly offered Clark council on choosing songs to perform on the show, as well as money to help promote Clark’s career. The book proposal also describes how Abdul once came up behind Clark, rubbed his neck, and then they began "kissing passionately and feeling each other up" as they moved to the guest bedroom.

Clark further alleges that season one runner-up Justin Guarini “bragged about having an affair with Paula.” Representatives for Guarini and Abdul deny Clark’s claims.

Corey’s first solo album is scheduled for release later this year. No word yet on if a publisher has taken on Clark’s book for publishing.

Meanwhile, ABC claims to have “explosive allegations” which may or may not include Clark’s claims. ABC News announced that a special hour of PrimeTime Live "will explore explosive claims about behind-the-scenes activities at 'American Idol,' the hit television show that became a cultural phenomenon." The show is subtitled “Fallen Idol.”

Interestingly, Fox says ABC News has not contacted anyone at the rival network about “explosive claims.” But, ABC News has contacted public relations firm BWR, which represents the show, asking to interview the American Idol judges and the producers, the agency confirmed. It is not clear what level of cooperation American Idol has given to the show, or whether interviews were granted.

Already, there are those ringing the death knell for American Idol. The Globe feverishly quotes TV critic Marc Berman : "If the charges are true, then this is a huge scandal that could kill 'American Idol.' If a judge and a contestant have an affair, the future of the entire show is in jeopardy."

I think Berman is overstating. You see, the judges do not determine the winner of American Idol. If they did, he would be right to smell a rat. However, the judges’ critiques are merely window dressing at this stage of the competition. They are only, presumably, learned opinions. This is not to say an affair between Clark and Abdul is any less inappropriate, but it is more the level of a boss being involved with a subordinate. Heavily frowned upon, forbidden in some sectors of Corporate America, but well short of the 21 scandal some writers are proffering. The judges do not determine the winner. What impact help in song selection would have is debatable.

In addition to these claims, RealityNewsOnline has been made aware of an alleged message from season two finalist, Trenyce, to her fans. We have been able to verify from Trenyce herself that she did author the email. For those who may not have read it, here it is in its entirety:

Hey all,

I would first like to just say that I really have a huge sense of responsibility to all of my fans, and that is why you all watching the ABC Primetime show is soooo important.

I am in a position at this moment in my career where I realize that I cannot fully move forward until I have said what needs to be said.

This "marriage" between Idol and I has been long overdue for a "divorce", and with all divorces, it is always good for both parties to be able to sensibly walk away with their integrity, dignity, finances, and belongings all in tact. Anything that is owed should be given, and any apologies that should be made, will be. Some divorces of course, are quick and sweet, but some may cause one or the other to feel the need to be dirty and unfair (usually the party in the wrong).

I am by no means trying to "get back at" the show or project any ill will to come to anyone on the show...All I have ever wanted was a fair chance to do what I love, and share the Gift that God has Blessed me with.

I used to be afraid of the Idol machine just like everyone else, but now I see what my purpose is...no matter if I am walking with some or none on my side.

The ABC show, I believe, has been moved to May 5th [Editor’s note: The “Fallen Idol” edition of PrimeTime Live is scheduled for Wednesday, May 4, 10 PM EST. In some markets, this will put it in direct competition with the American Idol results show for next week.] I have been seeing little things pop up here and there, including a write up in the Globe magazine for the month of May that discloses a very important part of the whole American Idol scandal, but I ask that you all watch with a mindful eye and an open heart.

I appreciate each of you for reading between the lines early on, and I hope that when this is all over that the right people(me, especially) will be vindicated, and those who were hypocrites will have to answer to a bigger audience. Not being mean or crass, but the truth needs to be known and spoken.

It took a long time for me to get to the point where I could feel good carrying the purpose on my back, but I am a stronger person now than I was on that show, and I owe it to myself, my fans and most importantly God, to do what is right, no matter what it looks like to some!

So, with that being said, I ask that you all continue to pray, because I am sure that the retaliation is coming along with a possible lawsuit, but I am willing to fight that battle as well!

Sting7 has been a respected published writer for many years, as a music editor, entertainment critic, columnist, and interviewer. He also has a curious love for pro-wrestling! You can email Stinger at stingseven@yahoo.com.

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