Season seven premiered on January 15, 2008, for a two-day, four-hour premiere. The media focused on the professional status of the season seven contestants, the so-called 'ringers', many of whom, including Kristy Lee Cook, Brooke White, Michael Johns, and in particular Carly Smithson, had prior recording contracts. Contestant David Hernandez also attracted some attention due to his past employment as a stripper.
What year did season seven of American Idol first air? Which season seven contestant had worked as a stripper before his time on American Idol? Which contestant was talked about most for having a record deal before being a contestant on American Idol? When did season seven premiere? Which contestant drew attention because he was a former stripper? Why did many of the contestants draw the attention of the media? Which contestant garnered the most attention because of a prior recording contract?