'American Idol' sponsor AT and T provided fans of Kris Allen phones which can send blocks of text messages in a single push of button.
- May 27, 2009
AceShowbiz - There is a chance that Adam Lambert was the actual winner of "American Idol" this season. The New York Times is reporting that the final number of votes that determined the winner in the May 20 finale, may have been faltered when AT&T reps gave fans of crowned winner Kris Allen a special phone with benefits.
AT&T as the biggest sponsor of the show as well as the single phone network that can be used to cast the text message votes, reportedly provided phones with free text-messaging and a multiple message sending program called Power Text. Thus fans can easily send a number of text messages and hit a single button.
These phones were allegedly distributed at two parties organized by Allen's fans in Arkansas after the final performance on May 19. The same thing apparently did not happen to Adam who only got a customized phone from the phone provider when he held a homecoming parade before the semi-final.
"Idol" itself had emphasized the rule at the end of every episode that blocks of votes using "technical enhancements" is potential to be counted out. No rep from the show has given any statement regarding the allegations, but fans of Adam have been flooding the chat boards and other online media to demand a fair recount.
Meanwhile, AT&T has released the following statement: "In Arkansas, we were invited to attend the local watch parties organized by the community. A few local employees brought a small number of demo phones with them and provided texting tutorials to those who were interested."
The loss of Adam Lambert to Kris Allen has sent a wave of shock to many, including celebrities. Kim Kardashian previously said, "I am not gonna lie, I am shocked Adam did not win American Idol! I think Kris (Allen) is talented, has an amazing voice and is adorable but Adam just has IT! Regardless, I think Adam will go on to make many albums and be really successful, as Kris will be too. I don't know, maybe Kris is the safer choice..."
