Clay Aiken Tabbed To Star In "Howdy Doody" Movie

Hollywood Pulse ^

[Sir Gawain]

Clay Aiken Tabbed To Star In "Howdy Doody" Movie

Looking to capitalize on his new-found fame as soon as possible, "American Idol" runner-up Clay Aiken has inked a deal with Disney in which he will star as Howdy Doody in a blockbuster musical due out later this year.

Aiken warmed America's heart with his thunderous voice, but it was not enough to beat eventual "American Idol" winner Rueben Studdard. However, that hasn't stopped the offers from rolling in for Aiken, who appears intent on accepting everything thrown his way.

That could explain why the red-haired, All-American-looking Aiken agreed to play Howdy Doody, the popular puppet from the 1950s.

"Clay doesn't know how many offers he will get after this year, so he wants to strike while the iron is hot," said Larry Roberts, Aiken's agent. "This might look like a desperate move on Clay's part, but trust me when I tell you that this movie is going to be huge."

Roberts said that several musical numbers were added to the movie after Aiken signed on to take advantage of his huge teenage following. Some of the songs are "I'm More Than Just a Puppet," "No Strings Attached" and "Freckles Are a Girl's Best Friend."

Still, many still question why Aiken -- who has miraculously overcome his image of being a geek -- would risk his new-found reputation by playing a dweeb like Howdy Doody.

"I understand why people would ask that, but Clay is and always will be Clay," Roberts said. "Let's face it, Clay could go on a shooting spree at a McDonald's, and teenage girls would still love him. If anybody was ever destined to play Howdy Doody, it's Clay Aiken."

[Sir Gawain]

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[Cathryn Crawford]

LMAO!!!!

The first time I saw him I thought "Howdy Doody!"

LOL

[Robert A Cook PE]

Is Clay really gonna be the puppet?

Or will he just act like somebody's hand is up his xxxx ... ? 8<)

[zlala]

LOL

He was born to play the part.

[Sir Gawain]

I thought

[Cathryn Crawford]

LMAO

[EggsAckley]

My mother always attributed my fascination with the music industry to Howdy Doody. When I was five I would sit in front of the tiny, green-screened TV and sing along with the Howdy Doody song every day. When I grew up I became a musician. LOL!

[freedumb2003]

Close...

[Brett66]

A Howdy Doody movie? Why? That's about as brilliant as a Wonder Twins movie. Uhhh never mind.....

Wonder Twins Movie Activates!

[Mister Magoo]

I see Clay more as a Teletubby.

[aimhigh]

After visitng the originating site, I get this impression this article is a spoof.

[cincinnati65]

**GUFFAW***

C'mon.....this is from the Onion, right?

[Charles Henrickson]

Chelsea lost the part?

[fish hawk]

LOL, me too, every time I see Howdy Doody I can't help but think of Alfred E.Newman from the old Mad Magazines.

[Theresa]

"After visitng the originating site, I get this impression this article is a spoof."

I think so too.

[duvausa]

A really nice kid who happens to have a wonderful voice---who’s a committed Christian who works with disabled children, takes criticism to heart without snapping back and works very hard on bettering himself, takes defeat with a smile and gives anyone who asks a friendly interview, never has a harsh word for anyone…

ah what the hell. Let’s rip him to shreds.

[NordP]

Now THAT's funny!

---Don't be so mean to Clay, everybody...look how everyone liked Barry Manalow (sp?)...that's who Clay reminds ME of.

Clay...I love your eyes!

[Victoria Delsoul]

Still, many still question why Aiken -- who has miraculously overcome his image of being a geek -- would risk his new-found reputation by playing a dweeb like Howdy Doody.

Oh boy! He has a tough decision to make.

[Sir Gawain]

hehe