The former Carly Hennessy who is the new Carly Smithson has caused some controversy since appearing on American Idol last night. Carly Smithson’s story is compelling. Two years ago, the Irish high-class lass with a star-spangled ass got tossed from the U. S. because of immigration issues.

The former Carly Hennessy was accepted to go to Hollywood with American Idol, but never made it as she was sent back on a plane to contemplate her navel for a couple of years. Now, Carly Smithson has resolved her Visa issues, appeared on American Idol, wowed the judges once more and has been given a pass to Hollywood, for real this time.

What is causing a stir, however, is that the hard luck Irish miracle, Carly Smithson is not the amateur that many thought her to be. In fact, as Carly Hennessy the Irish singer has had a recording contract with a major player, MCA Records and has put out an album.

The studio spent a cool two mil on promoting the album, which didn’t even sell enough copies to satisfy all the customers who typically go to one McDonald’s restaurant in one day. This brings up the question of just how much of an amateur does one have to be to appear on American Idol?

Of course, there are singers who have been and are currently in the competition who have recorded albums before. Most of these were with Indie labels and other small operations. At what point does a recording artist, who is currently in-between major labels get to compete? Or, is this what we are seeing with Carly Smithson?

There is no doubt that Carly Smithson has the pipes to compete. What is at question is does she have an unfair advantage, being a professional who has had a major recording contract, over the other contestants?

Perhaps one day we’ll see Mariah or Beyonce between contracts and appearing on America’s most beloved talent show?

Filed under: TV