American Idol Finalist Chris Daughtry May Turn Down 'Fuel' Offer

While all eyes were on the American idol final two in last night's contest, star in the making Chris Daughtry is mulling over whether or not he should accept the offer to front the rock band 'Fuel.'

Chris Mulling Career Direction

It seems like a pretty good match, they are a ready made band and if Daughtry fronts, their brand name soars immediately.  But it appears that Daughtry may turn down 'Fuel's' offer, according to a report from TMZ.

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The web site reports:

The band offered Daughtry the gig 13 days ago after his surprise elimination from 'American Idol.' But TMZ has learned that Fuel isn't expecting a thumbs-up from Daughtry, and has started to look at other options.

But if Daughtry does decide to go solo, his options will be limited, thanks to the exclusivity clause signed by all the contestants from this season's 'Idol.'

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TMZ cites the stranglehold contract that American Idol places on its contestants and gives details that basically paralyzes contestants from doing anything showbiz-related until three months after the show's grand finale.

The contract prohibits contestants from entering into "...any talent management agreement, talent agency agreement, recording contract, songwriting contract, acting contract, modeling contract, sponsorship contract, or any merchandising contract ...until three months following the date of the first broadcast of the final episode announcing the winner of the competition."

The exclusivity clause goes on to say that if a contestant signs a deal in violation of the contract, 'Idol' producers "shall be entitled to injunctive and other equitable relief." Translation: a judge could quash the deal.

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Daughtry certainly should be fine either way - he has the voice and certainly the polish to be a star.

More details and video of Chris here at TMZ.

--Gene Byrd