May 14, 2008

'American Idol' Front-Runner David Archuleta Speaks Out About His Dad: 'I Don't Really Care What People Say'

By MTV News Staff

"American Idol" front-runner David Archuleta has spoken out in support of his father, amid reports that Jeff Archuleta has been banned from the show's backstage.

"I don't really care what people say, but I know it's affected him and stressed him out," the younger Archuleta said in the newest issue of TV Guide, according to UsMagazine.com.

The final straw appeared to be a lyric change Jeff Archuleta reportedly insisted on during last week's performance show. Despite being warned against it, David's father is said to have requested alterations to the lyrics of Ben E. King's "Stand by Me" in order to slip in a verse from Sean Kingston's "Beautiful Girls," a move that reportedly cost the production additional song-clearance costs.

"I've heard some weird things that people have been saying, and it's kind of a bummer," David reportedly told the magazine. "I think I, of all people, would know what's going on, and he's been great.

"He's given me a lot of good advice and helped me from making any dumb decisions," Archuleta continued. "He understands more than anyone what I want in music, and I've felt really blessed to have someone like that."

David also addressed rumors that his father withheld water from him during a recording session.

"That's kind of stupid," he insisted. "I'm 17! I think I'd be able to stand up for myself if he were to take my water away."

Jeff Archuleta recently told Us that he is not the domineering stage dad people seem to think he is.