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Good Housekeeping

40 Strict 'American Idol' Rules Contestants Have to Follow

Good Housekeeping

October 27, 2020 at 3:30 PM

40 Strict 'American Idol' Rules Contestants Have to Follow

You have to meet the age requirements.

If you’re under 18, bring a parent.

You must live in the U.S.

Your have to audition online first.

You may have to wait for months for a callback.

Next, you have to audition for producers.

Walk-ins are welcome.

Don't lose your ticket.

Speaking of tickets...

You can't audition twice in one season.

Past contestants can't reaudition either.

You have to cover your own travel.

You can sing any song you want.

You must audition alone.

But you can bring in a guitar.

No ties are allowed.

You have to dress for television.

All of your in-person auditions will be recorded.

The best don't always move on.

You can't have any pending contracts or record deals.

You can't be running for public office.

You can't be financially connected to the show.

You can't have a romantic relationship with a judge.

You have to share details of your personal life.

You have to sign a confidentiality agreement.

Only some contestants are paid.

You can't profit off the show.

You don't have to cover your living expenses.

You get a clothing allowance, too.

You have one hour to pick a song.

A clip from your rehearsal might be shown on live TV.

Production can disqualify contestants at any time.

Production can also break their own rules for contestants.

You can't have stage fright.

If you're a finalist, you get to record songs.

The winner receives a record deal.

Your prize money is contingent on your record.

You have four months to complete your album.

You won't win as much prize money as previous contestants.

The runner-up gets a reward, too.

40 Strict 'American Idol' Rules Contestants Have to Follow

American Idol paved the way for the myriad singing shows on network television today. From the horrible auditions to the nerve-wracking finale, it's hard not to get caught up in the journey of the aspiring singers. But there's a lot viewers don't see. We're breaking down the craziest rules you probably didn't know contestants had to follow throughout the competition — from auditions to prepping for weekly competitions.

John Fleenor - Getty Images

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It's not just about talent. Contestants must follow strict rules while auditioning for and being on 'American Idol.'

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