American Idol

On Wednesday, Aiken spoke to "Good Morning America's" Diane Sawyer about how he suffered from panic attacks after appearing on "American Idol" in 2003. Clay believes the fact that he was bullied as a child, coupled with the death of his father, helped to exacerbate the problem.

Aiken admits to taking Paxil for the panic attacks, but isn't worried about getting addicted to the depression and anxiety medication. Clay also reveals he has no desire for therapy. "Everybody I know in LA goes to see somebody. And I don't want to do that."

While Clay will discuss the rampant rumors about his sexuality with Sawyer on Thursday, in an interview with People magazine, Aiken says "What do you say (to that question)? ... It's like when I was 8. I remember something would get broken in the house, and Mom and Dad would call me in and say, 'Did you do this?' Well, it didn't matter what I said. The only thing they would believe was yes. ... People are going to believe what they want."

While Clay may not be out, his new CD "A Thousand Different Ways" is.

The on-again-off-again pair enjoyed their time together at the swanky Locanda Veneta Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills on Friday night.

Ryan and Shana dated for several months back in 2004 and have been seen together randomly since then. Is the flame burning once again? You be the judge.

The showbiz king is a busy man these days. Between hosting gigs with E! News, running LA's highly rated morning show on KIIS FM and hosting the upcoming season of "American Idol," when does this guy have time to date??

TMZ has learned "American Idol" Season Two finalist Corey Clark has been arrested in Yuma, Arizona. According to police, Corey Delaney Clark, 26, was arrested on July 23 for violating a court order and trespassing at his father-in-law's residence. The court order was issued as a result of a previous domestic violence incident. Yuma County Sheriff's brought Clark to jail, where he spent 24 hours in the slammer before being released on bond.

TMZ spoke with Capt. Eben Bratcher of the Yuma Sheriff's Department who confirmed, "Mr. Clark was charged with two misdemeanors, one for criminal trespassing and the other for violating a court order. Mr. Clark missed his court hearing and a warrant for his arrest could be coming"

Appearing on "American Idol" can lead to great success and even Grammy Awards or... not!

For every Kelly Clarkson there are record store bargain bins littered with the failed careers of the reality show's contestants.

Former "Idol" non-winner Constantine Maroulis may not exactly be slinging hash at Applebee's yet, but the once buzzed about rocker is slowly watching his career hit the Guarini zone.

Although he has landed a role in the Broadway musical "The Wedding Singer", Maroulis is also still making ends meet by performing in local food festivals. Ay-yi-yi!

The Brooklyn native is scheduled to perform at the Greek Food Festival of Dallas at the end of the month. And for a whopping $10 admission price, hungry fans get entrance to the festival, lunch and Constantine's performance.

Not even Paula Abdul can find something hopeful to say to Constantine about that.

Bo Bice shot to stardom singing other people's tune's on "American Idol," but apparently fans have had enough.

TMZ has obtained a petition begging Bice's record label to green light more music written by the "American Idol" runner-up himself. The petition, which speaks directly to RCA chief Clive Davis, scoffs at the fact that his first album is written almost exclusively by other people, including the smash hit "Real Thing." Bice did pen three songs on the album.

The petition reads:

To: Mr. Clive Davis of RCA records

Bo Bice's first CD was made up of songs almost exclusively written by other artists and songwriters. When the CD was released, many of Bo's fans found they preferred his original songs, and would like RCA to support his aspiration to become an original recording artist.

We, the undersigned, want Bo Bice's original music to make up the majority of songs on his next CD.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned

At this point, the petition has over 1400 signatures and can be viewed and signed by online vote at www.jointhepetition.com.

Puck. Omarosa. LC. If you're a fan of reality TV then you probably recognize those one name monikers and the "characters" that go with them.

With every passing day there seem to be more and more reality shows filled with an endless pool of wannabe stars clamoring for fame. While most will be forgotten faster than you can say Darva Conger, a rare few have managed to eek out legit careers. And by legit we mean more than just appearing on more reality shows.

TMZ reveals which reality stars have beaten the odds and gone on to become real stars.

Kelly Clarkson

At first, things didn't seem to look too good for America's first "Idol" winner. Shortly after obtaining the now illustrious crown, Kelly Clarkson co-starred in the 2003 film "From Justin to Kelly" with "Idol" loser Justin Guarini - may he rest in peace. The film turned out to be a flop of epic proportions. But the talented singer endured long enough to obtain new management and release the 2004 multi-platinum album "Breakaway," which featured 5 hit singles including the monster track "Since U Been Gone." While past "Idol" winners (and Clay Aiken) have gone on to earn platinum-selling albums, Clarkson is the only "Idol" to receive the biggest musical career legitimizer there is -- two Grammy awards. We'd like to see Simon Cowell badmouth that!

Johnny Knoxville

Not even Paris Hilton could have imagined that videotaping yourself getting kicked in the groin or barbecuing your steak-covered body on a grill could lead to a legitimate acting career. Well, that's exactly what happened to Johnny Knoxville after his MTV stunt show, and it's big screen version, "Jackass" became a huge hit. Soon Knoxville's fearless attitude and rockstar looks had the studios knocking down his doors. Johnny has gone on to star in over ten films including last summer's hit "The Dukes of Hazzard." While Knoxville hasn't abandoned his reality show roots, "Jackass: Number Two" comes out this month, nothing says you've arrived quite like being linked to your on screen co-star (Jessica Simpson).

Jacinda Barrett

Another MTV alum who's caught Hollywood's eye is former London "Real World" roommate Jacinda Barrett. Since appearing on the reality show in '95, the former model has been steadily building a solid resume. She's co-starred with A-listers like Anthony Hopkins and Nicole Kidman in "The Human Stain", and with Renée Zellweger and Hugh Grant In "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason." This summer she starred in the remake of "Poseidon" and will next be seen with Zach Braff in "The Last Kiss" and with "Napoleon Dynamite's" Jon Heder in "School For Scoundrels." We think it's safe to say you won't be seeing Jacinda on a "Real World/Road Rules Challenge" in the near future.

Elisabeth Hasselbeck

Elisabeth Hasselbeck's experience roughing it in the wilds of "Survivor:The Australian Outback" was nothing compared to her mornings spent sparring with the other ladies on "The View." After her jungle days ended, Ms. Lizzie hosted E!'s "The Look for Less." That led to the high profile gig on "The View" and, eventually, to becoming Barbara Walters' conservative crybaby. And now that Meredith Vieira and Star Jones have left the show, Hasselbeck has firmly cemented her place at the gabfest's table. But with outspoken talkshow vet Rosie O'Donnell joining the morning show on September 5, all eyes will be on Elisabeth to see if she holds her own or crashes and burns under Rosie's reign. Regardless, as far as her career goes, and at least for now, it appears the tribe has spoken.

Jennifer Hudson

What's the latest on Halle Berry?

Bill, you can breathe easier now, for we have your Halle Berry scoop. Her love life is sailing along as smooth as anyone could dream of. She and loverboy Gabriel Aubry have been seen all over town buying art and visiting pet stores, and they've even been spotted observing the construction of their Hollywood Hills home together!

Halle's professional life is still in full swing as well. The Oscar winner just finished filming a movie with Bruce Willis called "Perfect Stranger," where her character goes undercover to solve a murder, and somehow gets caught up in the world of obsessive online love. Now, she's in the middle of shooting another flick called "Things We Lost," along with Benecio Del Toro and David Duchovny. Both movies are slated for a 2007 release.

To see more of Halle, go on and click here!

What's the name of Chris Daughtry's new band?

Crystal, it's not Fuel, that's for sure. However, he is working on putting together a new band aptly named, "Daughtry." Chris plans on doing the writing for his songs and working alongside distinguished producer Howard Benson (Hoobastank, Papa Roach). His first single is scheduled for radio at the end of September. Though the site is not yet functioning, fans will be able to visit www.DaughtryOfficial.com for the latest on one of America's favorite "Idol's."

For more on "American Idol," take a look at this.

TMZ has already reported that Taylor Hicks, Bucky Covington and Elliott Yamin skipped out on their "Idol" tour after-party, full of autograph signing and kodak moments with the kiddies, to obtain some serious music industry cred by playing at the notorious Hollywood rock club Viper Room.

Well here's what went down inside. Taylor jammed with the Little Memphis Blues Orchestra, along with members of his own band.

Hicks sang, played harmonica and drank shots on stage in front of a sold-out crowd that wasn't interested in hearing any pop music covers or standards. Amen!

Elliott and Bucky also got in on the action to the delight of the packed house which included tons of screaming fans, but unlike their earlier gig at Staples Center, none of the 12-year-old variety.

Bucky hung with his wife Crystal, while Elliott was joined by his gorgeous model girlfriend, Jamie.

As far as Taylor, when he wasn't on stage or fending off members of his Soul Patrol, he would retreat to the confines of the closed-off VIP room.

Immediately following their performance at the LA stop of their tour, the "American Idols" greeted lucky fans at their Staples Center after-party on Saturday.

The ever-gracious Ace Young signed autographs for the throngs of his young female fans, while their moms gawked on the side.

Paris Bennett, who recently turned 18, handled herself like an old pro and stood on a table to handle the crush of the teenage amateur paparazzi that swarmed the pint-size pop star.

Kellie Pickler, sporting blonde extensions, proved she's just a down home gal by arriving in slippers and sweatpants.

But the scene stealer and diva of the evening was Chris Daughtry. Chris arrived with extra security,and although initially he did mingle with fans, by the end of the night you had to be asked over by The Daughtry in order to say hello.

Interestingly, LIVE lead singer Ed Kowlaczyk --who performed with The Daughtry on the "Idol" finale -- was part of Chris' entourage that night and went completely unnoticed by the crowd.

"Idol" winner Taylor Hicks, Bucky Covington and Elliott Yamin did not attend the meet and greet. The trio were busy getting across town to the Johnny Depp-owned Viper Room to take the stage with the Little Memphis Blues Orchestra, which features members of Taylor Hicks' band.

Another no-show was film actress hopeful, Katharine McPhee. We're told that Kat, who is from nearby Sherman Oaks, Calif., had so many family and friends come visit her backstage that she wasn't able to attend the after-party.

After enduring bronchitis, laryngitis and a fractured foot, Katharine McPhee emerged triumphant during her performance Saturday on the American Idols Live Tour at LA's Staples Center.

But vocal skills aside, we've learned Kat's big star turn may be on the big screen.

A well-placed source tells TMZ that Kat, who has the same theatrical manager as another ailment-prone hottie, Lindsay Lohan, is one of the lucky ladies up for the highly coveted lead role in the big-screen adaptation of "Wonder Woman."

Everyone from Sandra Bullock to Kate Beckinsale has been rumored to be in the running for the starring role in the movie, which will be directed by Joss Whedon, who created "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."

While it's up in the air if she will be sporting those trademark red boots, tights and bracelets, you will still be able to see Kat wearing a lot less very soon.

TMZ has learned that Katharine, who has struggled with bulimia, will appear on the cover of an upcoming issue of Shape magazine, wearing a bathing suit. Now in a much healthier place, McPhee will show off her killer curves for all the world to see.

With all the prospects in her future, and despite coming in second on "Idol," It looks like Kat is no one-hit wonder, Justin Guarini be damned!

The "American Idols Live" tour arrives in Los Angeles on Saturday and tickets are still available on ticketmaster.com. In fact, they are not only not sold out - they are going for below face value on Craigslist.

Ticket holders are selling good floor seats at up to 40% below cost, with some tix going for as low as $20. A total steal especially considering concert tickets for true music idols, like Madonna, can go for as much as $350.

This is just the latest in a string of bad luck for the "Idol" contestants. Earlier this summer Katharine McPhee revealed she had struggled with bulimia and then disappointed fans when she was unable to start the tour due to severe bronchitis and laryngitis. Once she joined the group she fractured her foot on stage. And just recently "Idol" winner Taylor Hicks sued an ex-producer for attempting to sell two of his songs on iTunes.

With the new "Idol" season contestant search on the way and their fame slipping faster than Tara Reid's breast on the red carpet, fans better hurry and catch Ace, Bucky and Mandisa (remember them?) before they fade back into obscurity.

While many in the media have focused on Clay Aiken's off stage activities, Clay has been busy in the recording studio and TMZ has the new single from his upcoming record for you. The record, which will be his third release, is called "A Thousand Different Ways" and hits stores September 19th. The record will feature 4 brand new songs by Clay and 10 cover versions of well-known songs from the '70s, '80s and '90s, personally picked by Clay for the project.

Clay recently explained the record's title. "This is an album of love songs," says Clay, "but they are about all different kinds of love. Romantic love, Friendship, Unconditional love. There are a thousand different kinds of love; a thousand different ways to tell someone you love them. And, on top of that, since so many of these songs are covers, it's realistic to say that many of them have been or could be sung a thousand different ways."

You can listen to the single "Without You" here:

LAS VEGAS (AP) -- Former "American Idol" contestant Mikalah Gordon was "in a panic" but was not physically harmed after being robbed at gunpoint in Las Vegas, her mother said Thursday. Gordon, 18, was roughed up by robbers who accosted her and a male friend about 3:30 a.m. Wednesday on a sidewalk in a neighborhood about seven miles northwest of the Las Vegas Strip, said her mother, Victoria Cavaricci. "She's not physically harmed, but she's in a panic," Cavaricci told The Associated Press in a brief telephone interview from her Las Vegas home. Cavaricci said the robbers got away with a cell phone and $5.

Las Vegas police confirmed the robbery occurred and they were investigating. Gordon reached the finals of the 2005 "American Idol" competition. She graduated from a Las Vegas high school and now lives in Los Angeles, where she is pursuing an entertainment career.

Cavaricci said her daughter was "scarred and scared" and unable to talk with a reporter early Thursday. She said she had not canceled a scheduled appearance to sing this weekend at a benefit for children with cancer in Orange County, Calif.

Chris Daughtry may not have won "American Idol" but he has topped AOL's 2006 "TV's Top 5! Viewer Awards."

Daughtry's shockingly early elimination on "Idol" ranked as the fan pick for the best moment of the past TV season.

The TV's Top 5! recognizes the most talked about television moments in categories like best Trainwreck Moment and Best Steamy Smooches.

Fans voted online for their favorite nominated clips.