Former winner of "American Idol" Phillip Phillips is suing the show's producer because he wants out of his contract. According to ABC News, Phillips filed a petition with the California Labor Commissioner against 19 Entertainment, claiming that he was "manipulated" by the company and its affiliated companies for the past several years.
"I am very grateful for the opportunities provided to me through appearing on 'American Idol,'" he said in a statement to ABC News. "The value that the fans and the show have given to my career is not lost on me. However, I have not felt that I have been free to conduct my career in a way that I am comfortable with. I look forward to being able to make my own choices about my career and to being able to make great music and play it for my fans."
In the petition, the "Home" singer alleges that he was forced to perform at events that did not benefit his career. According to The Hollywood Reporter, he cited a time when he did a free show for JetBlue, claiming that the gig benefited 19 Entertainment more than it helped his career.
Phillips also alleges that the company was hiding information from him about his career and his last album "Behind the Light." He also believes 19 should not be entitled to 40 percent of his endorsement deals. THR reports that before the 24-year-old was crowned the winner during Season 11 in May 2012, Phillips signed a deal pertaining to his management, merchandising, recording and publishing. His lawyer called the contract "oppressive, fatally conflicted."
A spokesperson for 19 told THR that the company was aware of Phillips claims but they are standing firmly by the contract.
"We're very proud of everything we've accomplished together with Phillip, working closely to help nurture his extraordinary talent and advance his career," the spokesperson said. "We have always acted in the best interest of Phillip. We will vigorously defend ourselves from any baseless claims to the contrary and from any attempt to interfere with our rights and relationships."
