“American Idol” producer 19 Entertainment has filed a $6 million breach of contract suit against Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips.
In a claim filed in New York bankruptcy court on Thursday, the production company contends that the “Home” singer is withholding as much as $1 million amid an ongoing contract dispute.
Last January, Phillips filed a petition with the California Labor Commission, seeking to free himself from what the former contestant claimed was an “oppressive” contract that 19 Entertainment used to take advantage of his success.
According to 19’s latest filing, Phillips is withholding “no less than $850,000 and as much as $1,000,000” in “anticipation” that the contract will be voided. However, 19 Entertainment filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April, and the claim says that as a result, no ruling can be reached on the contract dispute for the foreseeable future.
The company also anticipates that “additional damages from continuing breaches” will exceed $5 million, which it asks that Phillips also be forced to pay.
Pamela Chelin contributed to this report.