Clay News!

30 lbs overweight?? Really??? I finally have a Clay Con.nec.tion.!!!

I don't know, I really like the vids of him walking last night. I think he looks adorable. I only wish I could see him in person, and you know, put my arms around him just you know, for information purposes

Oops! The info about the Xmas CD appears to be incorrect , so I am deleting it. Sorry.

I doubt if Clay is 30 pounds overweight. I saw the Star story today which claims he has gained 50 pounds since Idol because he'd been drinking 3 protein shakes a day. Now, if Clay had gained 50 pounds , he'd be 195 pounds now which isn't fat for a guy who's 6'1.

I do think he's somewhat out of shape and could use a trainer especially if the SPAMALOT rumors are true.

I agree, I don't really think he is that much over weight. I also think he just needs to work out. Something I don't think he has ever had to do before. My hubby is 6'2" and has weighed 190 and not looked one bit fat. I'm only 5'2" and I look fat at 130. It just ain't fair that he got a bigger container and can hold a lot more!!

I am dying to know if the Spamalot rumors are true. I don't know what to wish for If he was great in it and got wonderful reviews than I would be happy. Otherwise I fear more bashing for the poor guy.

I think a lot of this is eye of the beholder stuff. I'm sure you could take a picture of Clay and show it to different people and some would say he looked significantly overweight, others would say he was a little out of shape, and still others would say he looked like he always does.

Quote :

I do think he's somewhat out of shape and could use a trainer especially if the SPAMALOT rumors are true.

Well, here's the thing. For all that he's really tall, Clay is slight and pretty small-boned. During Idol he was this rail-thin tiny wisp of a really lanky guy, and now he's not quite so thin anymore.

It would probably be good for Clay, as a professional entertainer who is still in his twenties, to lose a few pounds. The good news is that he is SO GOOD. being a little overweight is not quite the crisis it might be; he does not have to be a sex god because he's a vocal god. The bad news is that his last album was a bad idea gone wrong. (OK, in Constantine circles I am reviled because I have this unfortunate tendency to know what the problems are and state them. Same thing here for a guy with three times the vocal talent. There, I said it. No, I'm NOT DEAF. )

I hope his appearance on Smarter than a Fifth Grader gives him a really good PR boost. If there is any AI alumi who really deserves an upswing, it's Clay Aiken.

Hey, Firecracker. Something funny just occurred to me. In the years right after Clay kicked Ruben's butt, I pretty much put him on the back burner because I thought his future was secure, and Connie's was not. Now I am beginning to be a little worried about Clay again, and he's becoming a bigger concern to me.

(Still can't really take the Clackhouse for long. The clinging to a pretend image of him is still hard for me to take. It isn't that I think Clay is perfect; I just think that his skills are so profound that any faults he might have are irrelevant. )

I'm worried about him too Abrahammy It seemed like he was going to be a huge star, but the star is fizzling out. Sales are not great right now for some of the Xmas shows. Sadly, I really think all the rumors have hurt his career. I don't know if 5th Grader is going to be enough to boost things for him. He needs the next CD to be kick ass and I have my doubts that Clay is a high priority on Clive's list. I just don't see Clive putting lots of money in promos for him.

I can take The Clack House but the ClayBoard can be hard to take. You pretty much better be all rainbows and puppies or they will take you out. I don't post there anywhere near as much as I thought I would. But, it is a good place for getting info.

Quote :

Sadly, I really think all the rumors have hurt his career.

Probably. Because a lot of people based their enjoyment of his singing on whether he filled their fantasy concept of what they wanted him to be. Since I don't give a flip whether he's gay or not, none of those rumors could make me do anything but feel sad for him. I was unable to feel hurt or disgusted.

However, Clay has an instrument for the ages and a good work ethic. I don't think he will ever be completely forced out of the business.

I'm not good at rainbows and puppies. I imagine the Clayboard would not like me.

Hey, I don't care either way either. If I want to fantasize about him I can make him straight in my fantasies!! I've probably pretended most of my fantasy boyfriends were waaaay better than they really are! When JD was my fantasy boyfriend he didn't do lots of drugs or threesomes!

I just wish talent and being a good person were enough in the music biz. It's just not though.

SPAMALOT IS NOT A RUMOR!!!

Awesome press release!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Quote :

January 18 – May 4, 2008 on Broadway


Clay Aiken, who became a music superstar following his success on the American Idol television series, will join the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, making his Broadway debut in the role of Sir Robin, at the Shubert Theatre, New York, from January 18 to May 4, 2008.

Tickets are available online now at telecharge.com or by calling (212) 239-6200/(800) 432-7250.

Directed by Mike Nichols, who won his eighth Tony Award for his direction of the new musical, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT has a book by Eric Idle, "lovingly ripped-off" from the screenplay of the Pythons' best- loved film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail by Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin. The music is by Eric Idle and John DuPrez.

Clay Aiken, who has sold more than 6 million albums; co-authored a best-selling book; and, played six sold-out concert tours, said "I really couldn't have asked for a more wonderful group of people to work with. Let’s not lie, the chance to work with legendary creative minds like Mike Nichols and Eric Idle is, on its own, a reason to jump at this opportunity. But, that's not all. The producers and creative folks I have had the chance to meet and work with so far have been unbelievably welcoming and wonderful. They've really made me feel at home already, and I haven't even started yet!"

Director Mike Nichols said: "Clay Aiken is amazing beyond that glorious voice. Turns out he is an excellent comic actor and a master of character. People will be surprised by his wide ranging talent, since the first impression is of great country charm and a singer to remember. This guy is not only a star, he is a lot more. We are lucky to get him for SPAMALOT."

SPAMALOT author and original Python Eric Idle commented: "This is great news. I have been a Clay Aiken fan ever since I took my daughter to see him live on the second season of American Idol and she held up a big sign of his name. Maybe now it should read 'American Idle.'"

Other members of the SPAMALOT creative team include Casey Nicholaw (choreography), multiple Olivier Award-winners Tim Hatley (sets and costumes) and Hugh Vanstone (lighting) and Acme Sound Partners.

Winning more awards than any other show in the 2005 Broadway Season, including the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Grammy Award for Best Cast Recording, SPAMALOT has set box office records since opening on Broadway to critical acclaim in March, 2005 at the flagship Shubert Theatre.

Monty Python's SPAMALOT celebrates one year in London’s West End at the Palace Theatre this week. SPAMALOT is also on National Tour around the US and is playing at Wynn Las Vegas. An Australian production will open in November in Melbourne.

Monty Python's SPAMALOT is produced by Boyett Ostar Productions, The Shubert Organization, Arielle Tepper, Stephanie McClelland/Lawrence Horowitz, Elan V. McAllister/Allan S. Gordon, Independent Presenters Network, Roy Furman, GRS Associates, Jam Theatricals, TGA Entertainment and Live Nation.

www.montypythonsspamalot.com

Clay also blogged! Which I can't copy, but rest assured he is excited and happy about this opportunity and working on the new CD this week. The release of the CD will not be delayed by his time on Broadway!

BTW, he said at the end of his blog he was glad we liked Nick's (is good friend) car! He asked if we really thought he would be stupid enough to drive his own car (with his plates) to the concert knowing his fans would be standing there with video cameras He is so smart and funny!!

Holy Heck. Now I have to go back to New York. My husband will never let me do this twice!

I am glad to see this, though. It's what he needed, and I think it's a good play for him. The career of Clay Aiken will soar once more!

And I am not surprised to hear that he's a good comic actor. I was pretty sure of that after I saw Scrubs.

OMG ! That is GREAT for him. Spamalot is hysterical! We saw it when the touring co. came through here last year.My son is a Python Freak.

God Abrahammy, I so hope you get to go!!! I will not be able to. Family and job will not allow for it. My dad will just be getting his new legs and honestly with college expenses I just don't see us being able to just run off to NYC for the play. We all went to NYC on vacation a year and a half ago or maybe I could have talked hubby into a spring vacation there instead of a summer vacation elsewhere, but frankly hubby and sons did not like NYC - much too crazy for them. Well, for me too, but for Clay it would be worth a little crazy. I would just give anything to see him in this! Is it awful of me to pray for Spamalotclack!!!!???? I know taping a Broadway play would be a major no no

I agree that this is just what Clay needed to get his career going again. Like I said earlier, if he is really good and gets lots of praise maybe things will really turn around for him. Hopefully he will get to hit lots of shows to promo his being in it. Maybe sing a song from it on GMA. I'm sure Diane would love to have him on for that! I wonder if she talked to her hubby about Clay for the play??

Hi Aerwin! So happy to see you in Clay's thread! Glad to hear you liked the play. I have read it is extremely funny! I like a lot of MP stuff.

Oh, no, Firecracker. I've already taken my shot on NYC. I don't regret it; this year the project is remodeling the house. I am just glad he has really good, well-chosen work of some prestige.

And I don't think it matters whether it's bad to want Spamaclack or not; I would not be the one to provide it, or even encourage it, but you can bet money, somebody's gonna walk in there with an undetected camera and it's gonna be on Youtube.

Aw, too bad neither of us can go. BUT, remodeling the house is super exciting stuff too!! I hope that all goes great for you guys!! I know it is expensive and a mess, but well worth it in the end.

Oh, I wouldn't have asked you to sneak clack. Like I said, I know it is very uncool to tape a play, but I am selfish when it comes to Clay and I will have no other way possible to see him, so with lots of quilt I hope someone gets some clack. It doesn't have to be a lot, just enough for me to get an idea of how well he does and what his accent sounds like and what he looks like. Just a couple mins. and I would be so happy!

My heart is bursting with pride for him right now!! A big Broadway part, working on new CD, Xmas tour coming up, the skating show, Sedaka tribute special and 5th grader!! Lots on his plate and he must be thrilled to have so much work coming up!!

Here is a great scene from the play. This is the part that Clay will play "Sir Robin", the part played by David Hyde Pierce. This scene is so funny and I think Clay will be a riot in this!

http://patsfan8898.vodpod.com/video/256828-spamalot-you-wont-succeed-on-broadway

It's on ET!

http://www.etonline.com/

Quote :

From YAHOO News:

1.Clay Aiken to Make Broadway Debut in Monty Python's Spamalot
Playbill - 59 minutes ago"American Idol" finalist Clay Aiken is scheduled to join the Broadway cast of the Tony Award-winning musical Monty Python's Spamalot in the role of Sir Robin.

2.Clay Aiken joins Broadway's 'Spamalot'
York Daily Record - 7 minutes agoNEW YORK-From "American Idol" to Eric Idle's "Spamalot." Clay Aiken will join the Broadway cast of "Monty Python's Spamalot" on Jan. 18, playing one of the leads, Sir Robin, in the Tony Award-winning musical directed by Mike Nichols.

3.Clay Aiken joins Monty Python's SPAMALOT, The Funniest Show on Earth
PR Newswire via Yahoo! Finance - 1 hour, 16 minutes agoClay Aiken, who became a music superstar following his success on the American Idol television series, will join the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Monty Python's SPAMALOT, making his Broadway debut in the role of Sir Robin, at the Shubert Theatre, New York, from January 18 to May 4, 2008.

4.Clay Aiken joins Broadway's `Spamalot'
The Charlotte Observer - 8 minutes agoFrom "American Idol" to Eric Idle's "Spamalot." Clay Aiken will join the Broadway cast of "Monty Python's Spamalot" on Jan. 18, playing one of the leads, Sir Robin, in the Tony Award-winning musical directed by Mike Nichols. "I really couldn't have asked for a more wonderful group of people to work with," said Aiken, who became a recording and concert star after his appearances on the TV series ...

5.Clay Aiken joins Broadway's `Spamalot'
AP via Yahoo! News - 23 minutes agoFrom "American Idol" to Eric Idle's "Spamalot."

People and MSN!

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20152661,00.html

http://music.msn.com/music/article.aspx?news=279793&GT1=7702


I love all the press he is getting!!

Would it be a good idea for Clay maybe to shorten the Christmas tour if not cancel it altogether? From what I gather - and I belong to several Clayboards - ticket sales aren't exactly rivaling a Bruce Springsteen farewell tour or even a Hannah Montana concert! - and I can't imagine this being the kind of role he could learn on his own in a hotel room.

I remember when Eric Idle was in the AI audience!

Well, it might be a good idea, but Clay loves his holiday tour. I do not think he will disappoint his fans who already have tix, and I think sales will pick up in some cities closer to Xmas. Some of the Xmas venues went on sale in summer and who is thinking of Xmas shows then except for the diehards.

http://www.broadway.com/gen/Buzz_Story.aspx?ci=554311

Clay's My Space has been updated also with new info and gorgeous Pix!

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=97926793

Clay in Spamalot! What a fun idea!

I went and looked it up. I am happy to see that in this version, the Brave Brave Sir Robin will survive the show.

Wikipedia Synopsis:

Quote :

Sir Robin the Not-quite-so-brave-as-Sir-Lancelot (also known as Sir Robin the Chicken-hearted) is a comic fictional character played by Eric Idle in the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and originated by David Hyde Pierce in the Broadway musical Spamalot. He is a purported Knight of the Round Table whose standard is that of a chicken. He is known for having "nearly fought the dragon of Angnor", for having "nearly stood up to the vicious chicken of Bristol" and for having "personally wet himself at the Battle of Badon Hill".

Sir Robin is a knight noted for his extreme cowardice, and for the band of minstrels (their leader is played by Neil Innes, who wrote their songs) who follow him around singing of his bravery and the tortures he will bravely endure, or of how bravely he ran away when faced with real danger. During a famine the minstrels were eaten by the knights, and there was much rejoicing, in which they cried quite half-heartedly, "Yay!"

Robin survived dangers such as a three-headed giant (played by Terry Jones, Graham Chapman, and Michael Palin), the Rabbit of Caerbannog ("I soiled my armour I was so scared"), and the Legendary Black Beast of Aaaaarrrrrrggghhh, all simply by running away at the right moment. One notable moment recorded Sir Robin's strategy against one of their foes as, "Perhaps it would help if we run away more." He was not completely useless: he accidentally defeats the Knights who say Ni by saying the word they cannot hear ("it"). When he finally faced danger—the three-question challenge of the Keeper of the Bridge of Death (Terry Gilliam)—he was cast into the Gorge of Eternal Peril for not knowing the name of the capital of Assyria.

In the musical Spamalot Sir Robin is introduced as the timid, music-loving Dead-Collector who discusses his dream of being a Knight with a fellow peasant named Lancelot. They decide to join the Round Table together. Later in the second Act, it's Sir Robin who sings the show-stopping "You Won't Succeed On Broadway" and during the Finale reveals that his "Grail" is musical theatre.

Clay Aiken will make his Broadway debut in the role of Sir Robin, at the Shubert Theatre, New York, from January 18 to May 4, 2008.

The Philosophy of the Three-Headed Giant

Sir Robin's adventure with the three-headed giant pokes fun at the idea of bureaucracy. The three heads control only one body, so any action must be discussed at length before being taken. The moment Sir Robin meets the three-headed giant, all three heads decide to kill him. So far, so good. Then, they begin a lengthy argument about what they want to do after killing him. Note that they begin this argument before taking the necessary first step of killing him. As they bicker amongst themselves, Sir Robin takes the initiative and flees.

Wah. Wish I could go.

BWAH!! Abrahammy's avi!!!

Clay has been reading the "Spamalot thread" at his THE OFC and he was so touched by a post that he posted in the thread. He has been off Paxil for a little over a month. I really hope that works out for him.

Quote :

Clay responded to a post by aikim that she wrote at the OFC. She reposted it at CV (I hope this is OK to copy over):
Quote:
Originally Posted by ozfan4

I think it is easier for me to be so excited about this new venture for Clay is because I have never really seen him as just a pop star...he has always been, for me, an entertainer...pop star seems to be such a limiting term to me...they come and go so quickly...Singing is just one of Clay's many talents...he does have a flair for comedy and he is a natural entertainer; his rapport with his audience is unparralled amongst today's crop of pop singers, entertainers, etc. I think it is very smart of him to branch out and investigate all avenues of the entertainment field...it seems almost a neccessity in order to have a long career in this business and if anyone can make it all work, Clay can.

We all had dreams for Clay after AI and during his first brush with success after MOAM, and disappointment was inevitable when some of those dreams did not pan out and imagine even was Clay disappointed at some point. Clay has grown tremendously in the last 5 years, found out how strong he and his fanbase was in the face of adversity; learned to trust his instincts when planning a concert tour or writing a new show; grew up before our eyes from that shy, country boy with the big voice to a young man with his feet firmly on the ground and a new sense of self-worth.

If you love someone, sometimes you have to let them go and let them follow their own dreams; those of us with children,know that too well...by giving Clay the freedom to develop into the performer that he is destined to be instead of trying to confine him to what we want or need him to be; that love will be returned and while he may not be just ours at some point and the family will grow larger and widespread, we can still hold in our hearts that we were here from the beginning, through the joys and heartaches, laughter and tears and no one will ever be able to take that away from us.

Hugs to those who are having difficulties with this news and hugs to Clay for always following the beat of his own drum and never closing a door and being open to possibilities.

Kim

Here is Clay's post!

OK... maybe it's because I have been off of the Paxil for about a month now... or.. who knows why.
But, I swear, that (especially the underlined parts) got me a little misty!

I'm misty too!

There are 995 members online at the OFC right now! A record!

firecracker wrote:

There are 995 members online at the OFC right now! A record!

Clay was in Chat on the OFC. About 600 were in the room at one point.

I assumed the bloat was caused by the anti-depressants. I don't care what he looks like, myself. But if he can be fine without Paxil or another anti-depressant it is great that he is off them.

Long ago, somewhere online, I saw a video of Clay in highshool in a comic part in a musical. He was delightful. I do not view it as a wrong move or too ambitious a stretch for him to do the David Hyde Pierce part in Spamalot.

The voice is spectacular, but his funniness is, too.