Contracts Are Very One-Sided Against American Idols

Eric Olsen of Salon.com reports ‘American Idol’ winner Kelly Clarkson and her fellow finalists had to sign virtually their entire careers away to the show’s producers for one shot at stardom. They are wrapped up for recording, management and merchandising under the most restrictive terms imaginable: Their careers are literally not their own. In addition, if contestants reveal anything to anyone about the workings of the show or the contract they signed, they’re liable for damages “in excess of $5 million.” Read more.