'Idol's' Jordin names one of favorite singers: Sanjaya

Until now, when asked her favorite male singers, Jordin Sparks topped the list with John Mayer and Justin Timberlake. But, the effervescent new "American Idol" champ said Wednesday, she's got another name to add: Sanjaya Malakar.

"He had so much guts," the 17-year-old "American Idol" winner told The Associated Press. "He had so much strength. He got a lot of criticism, but for him to go out on that stage and hold his head high. ... I really look up to him for that. He's just an amazing kid."

The lanky Malakar, also 17, made a strong impression during the sixth season of the Fox competition, transforming from shy guy to media superstar in a span of weeks.