Ruben Studdard, 'American Idol' Winner, Sent Home From 'The Biggest Loser'

Ruben Studdard, winner of American Idol’s third season, was sent home from The Biggest Loser this week after losing five pounds that week – making him the contestant who lost the least percentage of weight.

Studdard, who has been keeping up a singing career since his triumph on American Idol, has been out of the spotlight for years and was the first celebrity contestant ever featured on The Biggest Loser. He says his own happiness with himself was not a factor in joining the reality weight-loss competition, but it was always about his health.

“I’ve always been comfortable the way I am. But one day I woke up and realized that I had worked so hard to build my music career, that I neglected the person who actually sings the songs,” Studdard said in an interview post-elimination.

Studdard said joined the show because he wanted to focus on his health instead of his career, saying “the one thing that has eluded me is the picture of optimal health.”

The singer admits to always choosing singing over health, saying “I haven’t really paid attention to taking care of myself.”

Though he was only at The Biggest Loser ranch for four weeks, Studdard managed to lose 39 pounds while on the reality show. He also learned a lot about his own health, including his initial diagnosis of Type II Diabetes. Unfortunately, this week he weighed in a five pound weight loss, which led to his elimination.

According to a recent interview, Studdard was more than successful in taking his work ethic on the show home with him – he has now lost a total of 104 pounds (including the 39 pounds he lost on the show).

“I took everything I learned on the ranch, including diet and exercise home with me. I’m doing great. I feel great,” Studdard told Diets In Review.

After his elimination, Studdard swore to The Biggest Loser audience, “Next time you see me, my body will be sexy.”

– Olivia Truffaut-Wong

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