Hey, Ruben Studdard: Even American Idols have to pay Uncle Sam

Apparently "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard doesn't feel like he needs to pay his taxes. And the IRS is not happy.

He owes more than $193,000 in state and federal taxes. Much of it was due for 2003 -- the year he won "Idol" and signed a $1-million contract. He was also awarded $2 million a couple of years ago after he sued his former business manager for misappropriated funds.

Now's a bad time for Studdard. His label J Records dropped him in December after two of his three albums failed to ignite sales.

Where'd he go and spend all of it? How's he supporting new wife Surata?

Maybe he can earn some money on the road when he joins the cast of the touring production of "Ain't Misbehavin."

Because even the "Velvet Teddy Bear" has to answer to the tax man.

-- Denise Martin

Photo: Associated Press

Comments

[Chicago48]

All AI does is promise you exposure and from there on you're on your own practically. You have to work hard, get exposure, get endorsements and get good writers and producers. Only a handful of Idols have reached superstardom, the rest are languishing at the state fairs. Reuben is a great voice, but not a great talent. But now is not a great time for Black male R&B singers, unless your name is John Legend.