Reader comments
Despite rumor mill, 'Idol' life good for Utahns
50 comments | Read story
goboywonder | 12:40 a.m. July 14, 2008
I am very happy for both Archuletas. David is receiving the well deserved
recognition for his phenominal singing abilities and Jeff for finally being
vindicated after he was so viciously maligned by the media. God bless you both.
goboywonder | 12:52 a.m. July 14, 2008
I am very happy for both Jeff and David Archuleta. It is good to see Jeff
finally vindicated after the media so viciously maligned him. It is also great
to see David receive the well deserved recognition for his phenominal singing
abilities. May God continue to bless you both and your family as well.
Josiah | 1:36 a.m. July 14, 2008
Can we sue TMZ ? I have forgotten all about negative manupulation leading to
the result, and this interview reminds me of the anger I had during the idol.
But, congratulations, Jeff. David gets wonderful raves from media for his
outstanding performance during the tour. He is a real deal. I still think he
should have won because he is the best vocal. But we, fans, realized that
David's contract with Jive (with multiple CDs) proved that he is a true
winner. We are so proud of him, and you've never lost your cool despite of
media negativity. Thank you for your support.
Comments continue below
NCM101 | 1:53 a.m. July 14, 2008
way to go Jeff!! u sure can't trust the media!
MaryAnn | 1:50 a.m. July 14, 2008
I am a writer and a David fan. Because I know how it goes in the media at least
some of the time, I never for a second believed any of the reports about Jeff.
David always appeared to be a joyful,humble and sweet kid. Kids don't
become that way without good parents. Many David fans never doubted Jeff was a
good guy, but what a shame to have your name dragged through the mud. Fans who
meet Jeff always rave what a great guy he seems, very down to earth. I truly
believe in karma, in the end good things happen to good people. Maybe thats why
David and his family are watching a dream come true. I for one say, good for
them.
Sam | 1:58 a.m. July 14, 2008
Excellent article! Thank you so much!
Anonymous | 4:54 a.m. July 14, 2008
This isn't a story about "idol" life at all.
This isn't even a story about David Archuleta.
This isn't even a story about David Archuleta.
Dennis | 5:15 a.m. July 14, 2008
It's like the old joke where 2 or 3 vultures are sitting on a branch and
one says to the other, "I'm sick of waiting around, I'm going to
kill something". Too often the press are just vultures.
CP | 5:54 a.m. July 14, 2008
Well said MR. Archuleta and like others have said: "Welcome to the
business". And you got one thing right TMZ is not a reliable source for
anything..it's just TV's version of the National Enquirer..all bogus.
You're doing an awesome job! Stay strong and be tough with the media. Best
of luck David on your new CD. Look forward to it. At least I know that will be
one CD I won't mind if my kids listen to or would like to buy.
Andrea C. | 6:09 a.m. July 14, 2008
Great article!!The Archuleta's have so much integrity, class and character.
It was heartbreaking to hear some of the rumors in the media against David and
Jeff. I was always taught, "don't believe everything you hear(or
see)". And David's true fans knew this was all a bunch of garbage.
That was the lowest of the low to bash a 17 year old kid and then his dad. He
has so much support, from his family, friends and fans.
Mary Bodo | 6:29 a.m. July 14, 2008
It is such a relief to see that Jeff is now able to talk about his experience.
It really frustrated me that he had to keep silent during the show. I knew that
it was all a lie that started with the Judd remark on The View. But they (the
family) came through it with grace. They are an awesome loving family and David
is a manifestation of that.
They can hold their heads up high.
Love you guys.
They can hold their heads up high.
Love you guys.
Francine | 7:32 a.m. July 14, 2008
Terrific article and I'm glad Jeff could clear the air. I never belieevd
the rumors becuase as someoen already said, David wouldn't have been such a
sweet well adjusted guy if the rumors were true. I do beleieve teh american
idol producers sold teh Archueltas out to get publicity and that's why
Unless David is doing a guest appearance on the show, i won't be watching
the show. I hope David's CD release date is correct, I preorderd 7 CDs
already from Amazon and I wnated to pick some up in teh stoe as well. However
if it makes the record beter I'm willing to wait another 6 months more if I
have. This is the first eyar I am seeing the AI concert and I'm only going
becuase of David. SO david keep your voice well rested so I can see you on
August 14th. I think teh Archuletas are terrific parents.
Kim S. | 7:37 a.m. July 14, 2008
This article is great. I hope it gets the circulation it needs to set the
record straight. I'll do my best to pass it on to any that still comment on
Jeff being the worst stage dad ever and I hope others will do the same.
Wondering | 7:50 a.m. July 14, 2008
Where is Davids Mother in all of this coverage?
Re. Wondering | 8:27 a.m. July 14, 2008
David's mother is raising a family of several younger children and doing a
terrific job. She is a sweetheart, and a very bright lady. David looks very much
like her.
Anonymous | 8:28 a.m. July 14, 2008
One more reason to distrust the media. Over the past two years a good portion
of the media has dragged the entire profession into the gutter.
Zencookie | 8:47 a.m. July 14, 2008
To Anonymous 8:28 a.m.
As a PROFESSIONAL journalist, you need to understand that those who work for "media," and I use that term loosely, like TMZ are neither professional or journalists. A good journalist must be credible and reliable otherwise people soon learn not to talk to him or her and worse readers will stop reading. As with all things a good rule of thumb is "by their fruits ye shall know them" AKA consider the source. Would you cite TMZ in a research paper? I should hope not! Maybe it's just the journalist/researcher/graduate student in me but if I would not cite the source either professionally or academically, then I don't trust the source. TMZ is not journalism. TMZ akin to standing around the watercooler gossiping. Funny how watercoolers were never "dragged into the gutter" just because of congreagations of gossip-mongers. Trust the media but choose wisely how you define media.
As a PROFESSIONAL journalist, you need to understand that those who work for "media," and I use that term loosely, like TMZ are neither professional or journalists. A good journalist must be credible and reliable otherwise people soon learn not to talk to him or her and worse readers will stop reading. As with all things a good rule of thumb is "by their fruits ye shall know them" AKA consider the source. Would you cite TMZ in a research paper? I should hope not! Maybe it's just the journalist/researcher/graduate student in me but if I would not cite the source either professionally or academically, then I don't trust the source. TMZ is not journalism. TMZ akin to standing around the watercooler gossiping. Funny how watercoolers were never "dragged into the gutter" just because of congreagations of gossip-mongers. Trust the media but choose wisely how you define media.
trevorteusc | 9:05 a.m. July 14, 2008
Zencookie: "Trust the media but choose wisely how you define
media."
What is your take on the fact that AP was quoting TMZ as if it were gospel truth?
What is your take on the fact that AP was quoting TMZ as if it were gospel truth?
Anonymous | 9:18 a.m. July 14, 2008
I don't know Jeff but I do know Lupe and her sister. They are terrific
people, very friendly, nice and down-to-earth. If that was my kid, I
wouldn't leave him alone a minute knowing how show business is. You can
tell by knowing David that his parents are great people, a solid marriage, a
solid family. Kuddos to them!
brerabbit | 9:51 a.m. July 14, 2008
"So live your live that if someone says something bad about you no one will
believe it"!
Alice | 10:18 a.m. July 14, 2008
Why is it that the media can say anything untrue and print it just because some
source said it. What is wrong with this picture? Duh..It is a good thing that
David and Jeff are bigger and better than the strange people trying to make
sensation out of hurting others. It is sad they make money trying to hurt good
people.
Old geezer in Arizona | 10:23 a.m. July 14, 2008
David is the real deal--glad his side got an airing finally.
When I entered a life of public service (i.e. municipal government) I was told: "Just expect the newspapers to be 40% wrong and it will save you a lot daily distress." That proved to be true. Many writers try very hard to get it right and they provide an important service to society. They have the pressures of deadlines and competition and sometimes have to cover areas/subjects that are not their particular area of expertise. Also, the writers typically do not get to choose headlines for their own stories. Others, on the other hand, like to sensationalize or see themselves as breaking the next "Watergate" story. I challenged a reporter once on an article she wrote about our organization and she said, "Well, you may be correct, but I had not had one of my stories land on the front page for a long time." As if to say, she had to color the story a bit to make it "worthy" of page-one. It's very frustrating but it's life "in the big city" as they say.
When I entered a life of public service (i.e. municipal government) I was told: "Just expect the newspapers to be 40% wrong and it will save you a lot daily distress." That proved to be true. Many writers try very hard to get it right and they provide an important service to society. They have the pressures of deadlines and competition and sometimes have to cover areas/subjects that are not their particular area of expertise. Also, the writers typically do not get to choose headlines for their own stories. Others, on the other hand, like to sensationalize or see themselves as breaking the next "Watergate" story. I challenged a reporter once on an article she wrote about our organization and she said, "Well, you may be correct, but I had not had one of my stories land on the front page for a long time." As if to say, she had to color the story a bit to make it "worthy" of page-one. It's very frustrating but it's life "in the big city" as they say.
Bill from South Dakota | 10:36 a.m. July 14, 2008
It is good to see some positive print about Jeff. He must be a great father to
all of his children. As good a young man as David is it is going to take a
strong "advisor" to help in survive in the cesspool that is the
entertainment business.
sandy | 11:05 a.m. July 14, 2008
David's fans make it their mission to squash rumors whenever possible.
Rest assured that we're doing our best to set the records straight every
chance we get. All my best to all of the Archuleta's!
Kathy Hagan | 11:14 a.m. July 14, 2008
Great article. I learned quite a bit through this whole process of
"becoming a lifelong fan of David Archuleta, American Idol Season 7
contestant." I no longer click on TMZ for any reason. And I read any
celebrity news with a grain of salt.
I'm thrilled for David. I tried to get him the win, but I'm satisfied with being able to buy his CDs and attend his concerts for the next 50 years (because I'm old ... not because he'll be finished by then.)
I'm thrilled for David. I tried to get him the win, but I'm satisfied with being able to buy his CDs and attend his concerts for the next 50 years (because I'm old ... not because he'll be finished by then.)
re:Alice | 11:28 a.m. July 14, 2008
Because people buy into these stories. People believe what they want to and if
the media supports what they want to believe the it was "a good story"
...If not then it was a "bad story". The d-news is not immune from
this...Remember the Chris Buttars debacle? How did the local media do on that
issue? They were as bad as TMZ.
David Cook | 11:53 a.m. July 14, 2008
Yawn. Still waiting for some Marcus/Last Comic Standing coverage.
Ing | 1:14 p.m. July 14, 2008
Journalistic integrity is pretty much an oxymoron these days. There may be
individual journalists who have it, but the business as a whole has almost none
left, especially when it comes to entertainment...as almost everything does
eventually.
OJ Simpson's low-speed freeway chase, the ridiculous CNN coverage of Eliot Spitzer's car stuck in traffic, paparazzi stalking celebrities everywhere, you name it; the news industry is all about hyping anything that can create a public sensation. I've given up on getting useful, reliable, in-depth information on ANYTHING from TV news, and even newspapers. (I have to say, though, that the Deseret News is one of the better papers around these days.)
OJ Simpson's low-speed freeway chase, the ridiculous CNN coverage of Eliot Spitzer's car stuck in traffic, paparazzi stalking celebrities everywhere, you name it; the news industry is all about hyping anything that can create a public sensation. I've given up on getting useful, reliable, in-depth information on ANYTHING from TV news, and even newspapers. (I have to say, though, that the Deseret News is one of the better papers around these days.)
What will TMZ do without... | 1:21 p.m. July 14, 2008
Brittney and Jeff Archuleta??? They must be bored now that her daddy has
control over her and David's daddy can now speak out.
David A is mature beyond his years and has a very kind spirit, and his voice is so wonderful, I would call that great parenting. And there is not a doubt in my mind that when he has two children, his parents will not have to come back and parent him again.
I have seen some of the LDS youth that have done well on these shows cross the line a little, you know, I don't worry about that with David, we old folks could learn a lesson or two from him.
David A is mature beyond his years and has a very kind spirit, and his voice is so wonderful, I would call that great parenting. And there is not a doubt in my mind that when he has two children, his parents will not have to come back and parent him again.
I have seen some of the LDS youth that have done well on these shows cross the line a little, you know, I don't worry about that with David, we old folks could learn a lesson or two from him.
We love you too Jeff! | 3:32 p.m. July 14, 2008
The apple doesn't fall far from the tree! David is the apple and Jeff is
that tree! Jeff raised a wonderful child who shows respect and love towards
everyone. Thank you Jeff! Thanks for standing by David all these years and
supporting his dream to sing! David has the most beautiful voice I've ever
heard and he has such a sweet wonderful kind heart and personality. Because of
this, I never believed any of the rumors, ever! I'm so glad Jeff and David
have the chance to defend theirselves from the horrible press! Some other
people who contributed to the awful rumors owe Jeff and David an apology(Neome
Judd comes to mind). David will have an amazing career and his family will
always be there for him and so will his fans! Media will always make up bad
things to say along the way, but I and all of David's fans will not be
listening - We'll just be listening to David's wonderful voice! We
feel like we know David and Jeff pretty well now - and we love them both! Good
Luck to both! God Bless You Both!
Anonymous | 3:41 p.m. July 14, 2008
It is great to read an article that allows Jeff to state what is true. He
obviously is a strong man and good father to have put up with them and through
it tried to protect David. It is rare to see a father-son relationship like
this in this day and age. Jeff has shown that he is a father who is not afraid
to show his son affection in public and let him know how proud he is of him.
Thank God for fathers like Jeff. If more children had a father like him, we
would not have this lost generation of youth.
By your fruits ye will be known | 6:28 p.m. July 14, 2008
Nothing the media can say will alter 1 iota the LOYALTY of Archie's fans.
Got to meet both Jeff and David. Both are great, gracious, kind, sweet,
fantastic people. People you'd love to know. You will never meet anyone who
has met them say anything bad about them. Just look at one of DA's
signing sessions. Strong father/son relationship, strong family. Talk is cheap.
The WALK is hard. Just look at the Archuleta's walk. You'll know
them by their fruits!
Lo Lo | 7:32 p.m. July 14, 2008
whoo i love david archuleta!
Supporting Archuleta's Forever | 8:16 p.m. July 14, 2008
Can't say anything, BUT MORE POWER TO THE TRUTH, MORE POWER TO MR. JEFF AND
DAVID. YOU BOTH ARE STRONG and should be the role model of every family.
Tim Allen | 8:44 p.m. July 14, 2008
David Archulleta has amazing talent. It is good he lost so American Idol wont
fully own him or his career.
American Idol should be destroyed! As well as all the other fruity reality TV shows that destroyed prime time television for real men. Whatever happened to great shows such as MacGuyver, A-Team,
Knight Rider, and Magnum P.I.? I guess the testostrone levels have droped completely in this country. The only reason why I own a television is to watch sports.
American Idol should be destroyed! As well as all the other fruity reality TV shows that destroyed prime time television for real men. Whatever happened to great shows such as MacGuyver, A-Team,
Knight Rider, and Magnum P.I.? I guess the testostrone levels have droped completely in this country. The only reason why I own a television is to watch sports.
Rena Jordan | 9:03 p.m. July 14, 2008
I am from Salt Lake even tho I now live in California my heart belongs there. I
am so glad that the truth about Mr Archulleta has come out as I couldn't
believe what they were saying. We live across the street from David's
cousins and they were having a hard time with all the negative things that were
said. Idol has done so much good for aspiring talents but, they should step in
because it is the right thing to do.
pastel | 9:50 p.m. July 14, 2008
I have never liked the tabloid TMZ. If you've ever seen the TV show, they
take great joy at being critical and laughing at people. Is this news??? I do
think all the rumours did affect American's perception of David
unfortunately in the final weeks. But he has risen above it. I actually think
runner up in Idol is the best position to be in. Yes, a few less perks in the
short run, but David Archeleta is here for the long term. He'll be just
fine. And people all over the world get to say "What on earth were they
thinking...this kid DIDN'T win American Idol???"
Jenn | 10:20 p.m. July 14, 2008
I'm glad Jeff finally has a chance to speak. I NEVER believe that story one
bit.
Lystrera | 11:09 p.m. July 14, 2008
Well, that was informative...not! Dadchuleta will always be a stage dad, like
Mama Rose in "gypsy". A leopard doesn't change his spots. Jeff
needs to retire his hats, really.
Bookaholic | 4:24 a.m. July 15, 2008
I would love to have the Archuletas write a parenting book for the general
public when things settle down. Obviously, they are using LDS principles when
raising their kids, and it's worked very well, but I'm inclined to
believe there's more to the story.
When writing the book for a secular audience, it would have to be crafted so that they could understand the ideas, such as for Family Home Evening, call it 'family night' and make fun suggestions, note the the importance of religious observance and love at home. All these things are regularly taught in active LDS homes.
It really strikes me, though, that the Archuletas must be doing other things as well that have made a difference, and I and a lot of other parents would like to know what they are. David is a remarkable young man, and he didn't get that way by accident.
When writing the book for a secular audience, it would have to be crafted so that they could understand the ideas, such as for Family Home Evening, call it 'family night' and make fun suggestions, note the the importance of religious observance and love at home. All these things are regularly taught in active LDS homes.
It really strikes me, though, that the Archuletas must be doing other things as well that have made a difference, and I and a lot of other parents would like to know what they are. David is a remarkable young man, and he didn't get that way by accident.
Beulah | 5:55 a.m. July 15, 2008
Thank you Archuletta family for raising such a wonderful young man. You both
are an inspiration.
This is the first year of "Idol" that I have watched faithfully, and that is because of David Archuletta. So refreshing to see such a wonderful young man sharing his talents with the world. I look forward to your forthcoming CD.
This is the first year of "Idol" that I have watched faithfully, and that is because of David Archuletta. So refreshing to see such a wonderful young man sharing his talents with the world. I look forward to your forthcoming CD.
MusikLuvr | 5:54 p.m. July 15, 2008
I took that whole stage father spiel with a grain of salt from day one, being
also a Clay Aiken fan and having seen what the tabloid press tries to do with
all these kids who have enthusiastic fans. I don't believe anything TMZ
says, even though they might get the story right occasionally. Mean spirited
bastards, is all they are. Go, Archie and family. America loves you!
Truth | 7:45 p.m. July 15, 2008
The press has been horrible making up stories about Clay Aiken for years. Once
they find a hook that gets angry hits and selld papers they never let go. Stay
strong David fans. We know better than to listen to anything the tabloids say or
to any media that repeats the tabloid lies like its news.
angel | 10:37 p.m. July 15, 2008
David, I have listened to your song, " The most beautiful part about it
is...." multiple times and wow ! the message is very rich spiritually. You
and your family have been beaten through and through by the media during the
american idol season but now everything turned out to be a blessing. Your family
became a world's family model after all ! Everybody now wants to know how
your parents raised you up which made you who you are today. I always believe in
the saying, " goodness and truth prevails, evil deeds fails". I have
been praying that the truth will soon be revealed and thanks God ! it did. Your
family is getting well known now around the world as a model and humble family
because of the things that transpired during the AI season. Your family must be
the most popular family among all the AI contestants' family in AI history
and this was the product of the wrong doings of the media. You are so blessed
indeed !
archangel48 | 11:38 p.m. July 15, 2008
I never bought into the "stage dad" thing. David is way too good of a
person to have had bad parenting. I, for one, give Jeff and Lupe much Kudos!!!!!
God Bless to all the Archuleta's!
JanieD | 10:57 p.m. July 16, 2008
Glad to see some truth but the worst isn't over. Roger Wydenowski is the
PR/Management for these kids and the kiss of death would be more pleasant. Terry
Goldman of Electric Artists will most likely handle the viral marketing and
we've already seen his hand via the gay comments from Perez Hilton and
Constantine Maroulis on an Atlanta Radio show. I find it almost funny that some
on Idol would warn Jeff about the world of celebrity and tabloids when the
powers that be are the ones who plant the stories or put out the
"hit". I wish there was a way to tell the parents to keep these kids
as far away from Idol as possible but it wouldn't work.
Lois | 5:44 p.m. July 18, 2008
I hope the media is kinder to David than they've been to a past runner up
whose career has been affected due to the relentless bashing, lies, and
innuendos. Seems the likes of TMZ don't know what to do with the good
guys.
kfccanada | 9:00 p.m. July 18, 2008
TMZ knows exactly what to do with the good guys..bash 'em. Negativity sells
their message faster than truth does...but, it's not just the media who are
hurtful; it's the thousands of 'anonymous's' who ferret
through every celebrity forum and spew hate and dissension..no matter who the
victim today happens to be. (But they really have been extremely focussed on
'a past runner up').
Advice to David and his dad: live as if these naysayers don't exist. You know the truth about what's happening in your lives so.....disregard everything else....no matter what anybody claims. The biggest word in their 'small' vocabulary is 'gay'...so be prepared. Just smile and think about that much bigger word....'success.'
Advice to David and his dad: live as if these naysayers don't exist. You know the truth about what's happening in your lives so.....disregard everything else....no matter what anybody claims. The biggest word in their 'small' vocabulary is 'gay'...so be prepared. Just smile and think about that much bigger word....'success.'
texasfan | 6:25 a.m. Aug. 4, 2008
The media has become a joke. I don't understand what I thought were
reputable news sources relying on TMZ for news and printing it. They have been
cruel to a number of celebrities...often the ones who really are good people. I
hope David and his family can remain strong and ignore these people. The media
can't stand the thought that there are really good people making it as
stars. Fortunately more and more people are learning to ignore the internet
trolls and media liars. Hang in there...There are many good people out there
rooting for you!
Anonymous | 6:21 p.m. Aug. 4, 2008
I despise TMZ. They don't care at all about people. All they care about
is getting a story, true or not. I wish people would sue the pants off of them.
This is not journalism in the least. It is libel and slander (via their TV
show).
I wish David A the very best. He is a great singer and should have a wonderful career ahead of him. I plan to buy his CD.
I wish David A the very best. He is a great singer and should have a wonderful career ahead of him. I plan to buy his CD.
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Kenny Crookston, Associated Press
"American Idol" contestant David Archuleta and his father, Jeff Archuleta, during a May trip home.
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