MUMBAI: A contestant on ‘American Idol’ has sued the producers of the popular singing reality show, claiming that he suffered major ear damage when an audiologists representative took out an earpiece he was wearing and part of his eardrum was removed.

The contestant, Michael Simeon Smith, claims that on 12 December 2014, he was getting ready to perform for the show and was fitted for an earpiece in his right ear, along with silicone or molding material. 

According to the lawsuit, he "immediately felt pain" and when the audiologist's representative pulled it out, a portion of his eardrum was removed, reports variety.com.

Smith was then moved to another room for several hours, as blood came out of his ear.

"Plaintiff has sought medical treatment for his injuries, including right tympanoplasty. Plaintiff has been unable to perform music at the same level as prior to the incident, due to the absence of much of his eardrum," his lawsuit stated.

His claims include negligence and product liability. The lawsuit seeks unspecific damages.

Fox Broadcasting Co is named as a defendant, along with production companies behind the show and the audiologist's representative. 

Fox has not commented on the lawsuit.

(Source: IANS)