Nigel Lythgoe on the New 'Idol' Controversy

"American Idol" has just begun and already the show's new group of contestants is under scrutiny.When "American Idol"'s Final 12 guys take to the stage tonight, they will be singing songs from the '60s, including some DOORS and some NEIL SEDAKA, according to the show's executive producer NIGEL LYTHGOE.One issue that came up and which Lythgoe dismisses out of hand is that this year's contestants are controversial because several of them have had prior recording contracts. "KELLY CLARKSON had a professional contract. BO BICE had a deal. TAYLOR HICKS has got records that are out there. This is nothing new," he explains.
	Published: 2008-02-19 Provider: Entertainment Tonight