June 25, 2011 | Arts / Entertainment

Gay 'American Idol' contestant loses lawsuit

A New York federal judge tossed out Ian Benardo's lawsuit against Fox's American Idol.

Benardo claimed he was asked to 'gay it up' when appearing on the show.  He also said he was called 'fag' and 'homo' by Idol employees. 

However, Judge Colleen McMahon had little sympathy for Benardo. She said that because he tried out for the show three times (and was showcased each time), that he knew the nature of the show.

“He, like everyone else with a modicum of talent (or less) who auditions for American Idol, chose to appear on a program that was famous for its judges insulting behavior toward the lame, the halt and the talentless, knowing full well what was coming — if only because he had experienced it before,” McMahon wrote. “Benardo went on air after being told what was expected of him, and he knew full well what to expect. Having volunteered to be insulted, he cannot now claim that he was sexually harassed.”

He'd be perfect for The Weakest Link ...

'American Idol' Lawsuit Tossed Out  [Ad Week]