Past 'American Idol' finalists defend show after claims of racism

While American Idol is being cited in a racism lawsuit by nine former contestants, not every Idol alumnus agrees that the show is discriminatory.

American Idol is currently being sued on claims that black contestants have been kicked off for discriminatory reasons and to boost ratings.

According to a letter to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission obtained by TMZ, New York attorney James H. Freeman alleged that Idol has been conducting "a 'cruel and inhumane' scheme to exploit and humiliate black contestants."

Season six finalist Melinda Doolittle defended Idol and said the show is not discriminatory in any way. "It is shocking to see such allegations,” said Doolittle to TMZ. “In my experience on the show, the Idol team strives to champion everyone, regardless of race.”

Taylor Hicks, the winner of season five, also defended the singing competition show. "American Idol is for everyone. All walks of life go through the show,” said Hicks. “Not once did I see the show discriminate towards anyone. It’s all about the votes."