The True Cost Of Being An ‘American Idol’ Finalist

During the audition process, you see the stories about people traveling long distances just to audition in front of the esteemed panel of judges. According to Rushfield, "What the TV audience doesn't see is, if you're from San Diego and you audition and make it through in St. Louis, then you have to return to St. Louis a month or two later for the next round, and then again for a third round. Some can't afford to and drop out."

While their loved one is living the Hollywood lifestyle and competing on the most watched talent show ever, their families have to find the funds to see them. All of their travel expenses have to come out of their own pocket, and for most, that can be a huge burden.

Ever wonder where Adam Lambert got those spikey jackets? Each week the contestants are given $450 to buy their outfits for the upcoming show. They take the money and one of the show's stylists and do some shopping in L.A. However, most contestants have to dig deep into their own pockets because $450 doesn't go very far when you're shopping at high class L.A. stores.

Most of the time when you tell your boss or landlord that you're going away to Los Angeles to be a singer and compete on a television show, and you don't know how long you will be gone, they probably won't take it very well. A lot of contestants lose their job and even their apartments while they are off living their dream. This is a risk all contestants face.