Smallscreen News

Fallen Idols: Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard kicked to the curb

By Stone Martindale Jan 6, 2008, 19:13 GMT

02/10/2007 - Taylor Hicks - © Chris Hatcher / Photorazzi

Winning or placing in the top reality show, "American Idol" is no guarantee the music buying public will continue to support the efforts of the chosen crooners.

The dew is off the rose, as two past winners of "Idol" have lost their major label deals.

Just before Christmas, rumors began circulating that season 2's Ruben Studdard, who released three albums for J Records since 2003 (the latest, 2006's The Return, to modest sales), had been dropped.

However Studdard continues his management contract with 19 Entertainment.

Now the Hollywood Insider reports season 5 winner Taylor Hicks has also lost his J Records deal.

"Taylor is going to record his next album on his own," said a label rep. "He is no longer on the J Records roster."

What does this mean for the latest winner, Jordin Sparks?

More importantly, is it the beginning of the end for the profitable franchise heading into season 7 on January 15?