‘American Idol’s’ Justin Guarini: I skip meals to feed my wife and kids

TODAY - 'American Idol's season one runner-up, Justin Guarini, has learned the hard way that fame is fleeting...

Aug 15, 2013

“American Idol’s” season one runner-up, Justin Guarini, has learned the hard way that fame is fleeting. In a post on his website, the singer reveals that he’s fallen on such hard times that he often skips meals so his loved ones can eat.

“I have spent days skipping meals in order to make sure I have enough. To make sure my children, and my wife have enough,” Guarini wrote.

The singer appeared poised for success shortly after coming in second place to Kelly Clarkson on Fox’s singing competition in 2002. He was signed to RCA Records and released his debut album in 2003, but was dropped by the label six months later. The “From Justin to Kelly” star has since been active in musical theater, both on and off Broadway.

He married wife Reina Capodici in September 2009, and welcomed his first child in 2011.

“There was a time when I could have thrown down cash for a house, and had any number of lovers in and out the door. A flashy car and clothes to match. An ego to trump them all,” he wrote about the height of his fame. “Now I rent a home filled with love. I have a wife whom I love and who loves me (me!) and who lifts me up. Children who give me cherubic-lipped kisses before I leave for work and who are the most delicious morsels of joy and peace and prosperity.”

Though he may not have much cash, Guarini told a fan in the comments, “I am a pretty wealthy individual. I have more riches than I can count. Most of them come in the form of smiles and drool … but they make me feel like a gazillionaire!”

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