Fox Makes C-List Celebrities Sing

Simon Cowell's last project includes pairing up non-singing actors and performers with real star vocalists, in a bitter competition for a $100,000 prize. The man who masterminded the 'American Idol' talent competition, one of the hit reality shows of the summer, borrowed a little from the ABC's 'Dancing with the Stars' when he elaborated this brand new program.

Cowell said that he found 'Dancing' very entertaining, but he thought that making the celebrities sing would be even much more fun. So, he went ahead with his idea and contacted several stars. Among the finalists who will show America they can really carry a tune are: Lucy Lawless ('Xena'), Hal Sparks ('Queer as Folk'), Chris Jericho (WWE wrestler), Cheech Marin ('Nash Bridges'), Carly Patterson (2004 Olympic Gold Medal-winning gymnast), Alfonso Ribeiro ('Fresh Prince of Bel-Air'), Jai Rodriguez ('Queer Eye for the Straight Guy') and Lea Thompson ('Caroline in the City').

In the first episodes, 'Celebrity Duets' will show the stars getting trained by music professionals, before hitting the stage. Viewers can cast their votes over the phone and choose their favorite singing couple. But the stars will not pocket the prize money, as it will be donated, at the end of the competition, to a charitable organization of his/her choice.

The singers who are to participate and to perform next to the celebrities are: Clint Black, Michael Bolton, Belinda Carlisle, Taylor Dane, Peter Frampton, Macy Gray, James Ingram, Wynonna Judd, Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Kenny Loggins, Richard Marx, Brian McKnight, Aaron Neville, Smokey Robinson, Randy Travis, Dionne Warwick and Lee Ann Womack.

The show will be hosted by Wayne Brady, with music producer David Foster, Little Richard and Marie Osmond acting as judges.