Black contestants sue ‘American Idol’ on claims of racist actions

GLAAD via YoutubeStephen Ira Beatty stars in a PSA opposing a regulation that would exclude transgender people from accessing healthcare.

GLAAD via YoutubeStephen Ira Beatty stars in a PSA opposing a regulation that would exclude transgender people from accessing healthcare.

Several black contestants on “American Idol” are suing the show for millions of dollars, claiming that they were given the boot because of their race and not their talent.

The plaintiffs accuse producers of trying to dig up dirt on them to boost ratings by creating controversy through alleged arrest records and other scandals, according to TMZ. A lawyer for the 10 contestants claims they were made to look like “violent criminals, liars, and sexual deviants,” and that none of them were ever convicted of crimes.

The lawyers also want to know why white contestants were allegedly never singled out for their past transgressions. Each plaintiff is suing for $25 million.

Got scoops or Bay Area celebrity gossip? Email scoop@sfexaminer.com.American IdolAmerican Idol racismChris GolightlyFeaturesGossip

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