Katharine McPhee is unlike a number of her former “American Idol” castmates. For starters, McPhee — who has battled bulimia and dabbled in Scientology — is a bit more controversial than most of the fresh-faced “Idol” cast. And second, she doesn't mind talking about her time spent on the show's fifth season.

While some former “Idol” contestants have attempted to distance themselves from the show following their runs, McPhee — the Season Five runner-up to Taylor Hicks — doesn't mind talking about “American Idol.” In fact, during the course of her conversation with 210SA, she seemed to, at times, even relish it. With the finale of “Idol's” sixth season fast approaching, here's what McPhee had to say in a recent chat with 210SA.
 
It's been a year since you were on “Idol.” Have you adjusted to your newfound celebrity?
It's a little bit weird to think it was a year ago because to me, it feels like it's gone by so quickly. It makes me feel really grateful to look back now that I'm finished with it. Now I can just go on and be the artist I always wanted to be, but I'll always be grateful, and it's such an amazing show.

Why do some former contestants attempt to distance themselves from the show?
Some people think that in their mind, they can actually separate themselves from “American Idol.” They'll say not to ask “American Idol” questions, but until the day you die, they're going to ask whether you still watch “American Idol.” Until you die, (people are) going to ask whom you want to win. They're always going to refer to ex-Idols because we experienced it. No matter how many Grammys you win, how many records you have, they'll always remember whether you won or didn't. That's just the truth. I can understand why people get frustrated, but where I came from, I have an appreciation for it. I'm not ashamed.

What was it like recording your debut self-titled release?
It was a really fast pace. We didn't release the record until January (of this year), but it was definitely a different process. There were a lot of things thrown in the last couple of weeks — songs that I really wanted to make it that didn't and songs that made it that I didn't want. ..... But when I listen to the record, I can say that I love it, because I do, and I'm really proud of it.

You've endured your share of controversy over the past year. Does it get to you after awhile?
It's part of the environment, and I think people got drawn to the fact that my image really changed. It became very glamorized, and people are intrigued with celebrity. I don't really know, maybe it was how I said “American Idol” saved my life from bulimia. That's part of it, but I can't complain. Everything happens for a reason, and I've been able to get magazine attention, which keeps me out there so that I can keep doing what I love. I don't want to be a celebrity, and if you knew me, you know I don't spend times in the clubs or on the scene.

You're not the only contestant from the fifth season of “Idol” to have a hit album. Why does your season stick out so much?
I just think we had the combination of talent and personality. Among the 12 people, there was so much diversity. We had the rocker, the country, the pop girl, the crazy soulful guy who people didn't know what he was but loved him anyway. Ace (Young) was the boy-band guy. It was so diverse and so talented, and anybody could have won.

On that note, are you watching this season of “Idol?”
I still watch the show when I can. I TiVo it so I don't have to miss it. But I do watch the show, and I think Jordin (Sparks) will win.
 
Clint Hale | 210SA