Old Slaves: Entertainers Who Signed Bad Record Deals

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“American Idol” Contestants

“American Idol” has had plenty of controversies over its 11-year run: one of the most questionable being the contracts that it requires its contestants sign. According to documents: in order to participate in the show contestants must contract with its production company 19 Entertainment which retains 100% control over merchandising, touring, sponsorship and movie deals. 19 Entertainment also reserves the right to record contestants and their behavior in any way for the show – and use their likenesses, voices and biographical materials.

Season 8 alum Ju’Not Joyner even made the explosive claim that he was cut from the show because of his reluctance to sign its slave contract. He’s even alleged that Kris Allen beat out show favorite Adam Lambert because Adam also disagreed with most of what he was signing.