In a shocking turn of events, Benjamin Glaze, a former American Idol contestant who gained notoriety for an unexpected on-screen kiss with judge Katy Perry, has been arrested in Oklahoma on charges of possessing child sexual abuse material. The arrest adds another layer of controversy to the long-running reality show, which has recently faced various behind-the-scenes challenges.
The audition that went viral
Glaze, now 26, auditioned for American Idol’s 16th season in 2018 at the age of 19. While his musical performance didn’t propel him beyond the audition stage, a surprising interaction with pop star and then-judge Katy Perry catapulted him into the spotlight.
During his audition, Glaze revealed that he had never kissed anyone, prompting Perry to invite him to the judges’ table. What started as an innocent peck on the cheek turned into an unexpected lip-to-lip kiss when Perry turned her head at the last moment. The incident sparked discussions about consent and appropriate behavior on television.
Arrest details
According to a statement from the Tulsa Police Department, Glaze was arrested in April 2024 following an investigation by the Sexual Predator/Digital Evidence Recovery Unit, also known as the Spider Unit. The investigation was initiated after authorities received a tip about alleged criminal activity.
“As part of the investigations, the Spider Unit obtained a search warrant for Glaze’s residence,” the police statement read. “During the search, a smartphone was recovered that was found to contain over 700 images and videos of child sexual abuse material.”
A warrant for Glaze’s arrest was issued on October 18, and he was subsequently taken into custody on a single count of Aggravated Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material. Reports indicate that Glaze was released later that evening after posting a $50,000 bond.
American Idol’s recent controversies
This incident is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding American Idol:
- Katy Perry’s departure after the most recent season
- The show’s enlistment of Carrie Underwood for a “second chance” initiative
- Miley Cyrus reportedly being passed over due to salary demands
- A producer claiming to be a “victim of lies” in Paula Abdul’s lawsuit
As the legal process unfolds, this case serves as a stark reminder of the sometimes tumultuous lives of reality TV participants long after their moments in the spotlight have faded.