Harlemm Lee wins NBC's 'Fame' talent search competition
By Reality TV World staff, 07/24/2003
The man who said, “I’m 35. I’m bald. But I’m beautiful,” has won the ultimate talent search filled with younger competitors as millions of viewers chose Detroit, Michigan native Harlemm Lee as the elite performer on the NBC reality series, “Fame.”
The series followed award-winning choreographer/producer Debbie Allen’s pursuit of a true “triple threat,” - a performer with personality who can sing and dance. Last night’s finale saw Lee’s lifelong dream of being a Chinese-American popstar begin to form as he outshined runner-up 23-year old Shannon Bex from Portland, Oregon. Other finalists were Serena Henry, 20, from Henderson, Nevada and Brandon O’Neill, 16, from Knoxville, Tennessee.
As the winner of the summer-long competition, Lee will receive a management deal from top music manager and “Fame” celebrity panelist Johnny Wright. Under the deal, Lee is guaranteed to record a single with WIRE Records that will be produced by one of Wright’s esteemed clients such as Justin Timberlake, Jermaine Dupri or P. Diddy. Lee will also receive a $100,000 spokesperson contract from Wilhelmina Artist Management; a principal role in the opening New York City-run of the international hit musical, “Fame” on 42nd Street; one-year of training at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy; representation from one of Hollywood’s top agencies; and one year of free accommodations at the W Hotel Los Angeles while his career takes flight.
“Fame” is produced by MGM Television Entertainment and Stone Stanley Entertainment with David G. Stanley, Scott A. Stone and multiple Emmy-Award winner Jeff Margolis serving as executive producers.