The hit Fox show American Idol is now facing a discrimination lawsuit from former black contestants. As things heat up, no previous winners, who are all determined by America’s voting results, have responded.
There are ten plaintiffs in the discrimination suit, who are all being represented by attorney James H. Freeman. Mr. Freeman is claiming that American Idol used the history of his clients to paint them as “violent criminals, liars and sexual deviants.” To break down each plaintiff, let’s turn to The Huffington Post, who outlined each member’s connection with the singing competition:
“The plaintiffs are Season 2's Corey Clark, who was disqualified after it was revealed that he was previously arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery on police officers and his sister, as well as endangering the life of a child; Season 2's Jaered Andrews, who was also dismissed following the discovery of an assault charge stemming from a fatal bar fight; Season 2's Jacob John Smalley, who was eliminated early on in his season; Season 3's Donnie Williams, who was pulled from the show after an arrest for speeding and drunk driving while "Idol" was filming; Season 5's twin brothers Terrell Brittenum and Derrell Brittenum, who were cut after executives learned of an arrest and charges of identity theft; Season 6's Thomas Daniels, who was dismissed after his drunk driving charges and other criminal records came to light; Season 6's Akron Watson, who was kicked off after producers found out about a prior misdemeanor for possession of marijuana, which he claimed producers were made aware of previously; Season 8's Ju'Not Joyner, who claimed he was disqualified from the show because he questioned the contract; and Season 9's Chris Golightly, who was allegedly let go over complications with a former recording contract.”
But how much is Idol being sued for? The figure is astonishing--a minimum of $250 million dollars. While each contestant appears to be suing for a different amount, no claims are less than $25 million for any contestant.
Wow! What do you think? Was discrimination a factor in Idol’s decision to terminate...or do these guys just wanna rob the show blind? Let us know in the comment field below.
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