Smallscreen News

Idol chatter: Archuleta's dad booted from backstage

By M&C Smallscreen May 10, 2008, 16:01 GMT

David Archuleta, a finalist on American Idol, sings the National Anthem, before the Los Angeles Lakers, Utah Jazz second round playoff game at Energy Solutions Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, 09 May 2008. EPA/GEORGE FREY

David Archuleta's dad Jeff Archuleta comes with a caveat: He's allegedly a controlling stage dad according to many sources.

Now, TMZ.com reveals he has been "banned from rehearsals for 'American Idol.' "

TMZ is reporting that producers, contestants, the band and the vocal coaches have had enough of his interference backstage.

Allegedly, papa Jeff wanted to change the lyrics of David's first song "Stand By Me." by incorporating a verse of Sean Kingston's current hit, "Beautiful Girls."

The request, according to TMZ, was "denied."

This fell on deaf ears as young David did his father's bidding. TMZ claims Idol producers had to pony up dough for the licensing infringement.

TMZ claims now show legal business affairs has told Jeff he is "banned from all rehearsal rooms. He can attend the live show, but can't go backstage."

TMZ also claims Jeff was banned from "Star Search" a few years back when David was a finalist runner-up contestant on that show.