'Idol' favorite a really big talent--and that's the problem
May 20, 2003
BY BILL ZWECKER
Concerns about the health of Ruben Studdard --who many believe will win the second "American Idol" crown Wednesday--have surfaced after media reports that music uber-mogul Clive Davis is deeply worried about the singer's girth.
Davis allegedly fears that Stud-dard's 350-pound weight could lead to the kind of critical health crisis Davis' longtime friend and associate Luther Vandross is coping with. The singer is lying comatose and near death following the stroke he suffered April 16. Though Vandross slimmed down drastically several times, many thought his years of obesity and yo-yo dieting contributed to him suffering the stroke.
On numerous occasions, Stud-dard's lethargy onstage--assumed to be caused by his size--have generated concerns within the "American Idol" operation, but two very highly placed "A.I." honchos played down those reports Monday. They also denied that the enormous pressure of being one of two finalists on the show is any different than the kinds of pressures Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini faced last year.
"The only difference is that 'American Idol' is now a huge part of the national popular culture landscape. Appearing on the show turns these kids into instant celebrities, and the finalists are now so well-known to tens of millions of people," a key production staffer said Monday.
As for Ruben's weight and stage presence, another staffer said, "Certainly, we're all concerned about Ruben's health. Everyone knows the long-term effects of being tremendously overweight will eventually lead to serious health problems. That's something Ruben needs to start working on--and he knows it."
Another source close to Davis confirms that the recording industry legend is "deeply, deeply distraught about Vandross' condition. ... They are such good friends, and Clive is releasing his new album," but the source insists it is wrong to automatically merge Davis' thoughts about Vandross with his plans to produce the "American Idol" winner's first album.
"After all, it might just as easily be Clay [Aiken] who walks off as the winner Wednesday night." That having been said, "Clive--like so many who know and love Ruben--understands losing weight will be very important for him in the long term."
As for Vandross, Davis will release his new album, "Dance With My Father," on his J Records label in early June.
He shouldn't of said anything!
QTE
Threaded Mode