Kevin Covais might not have been an American Idol victor, but he may well become one of the competition series' first movie stars. After appearing on American Idol, Covais went on to star in the gross-out comedy College in 2008. Since then, he has won smaller appearances in Lindsay Lohan's Labor Pains and the upcoming Men in Black III. But Covais will return to focus in the developing comedy Identity Theft, starring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy, playing an eagle scout whose identity has been stolen. With this new role, Covais might cement himself in an American Idol alum's first truly successful film career — if he stays on the right path.
Do
Establish yourself in a genre. Covais is definitely making this happen with his line of comedy films, but...
Don't
Be afraid to take some varied, challenging roles. Jennifer Hudson has really made a name for herself in strong pieces like Dreamgirls and The Secret Life of Bees.
Do
Channel your vocal talents when appropriate. Katharine McPhee is a on the rise thanks to her lead role on NBC's musical drama Smash, which has recently been renewed for a second season. However...
Don'ts
Bank entirely on your image as an Idol alum to make it big, or you'll be stuck doing cameo roles and self-directed parody gigs.
Do
Team up with bigger, more celebrated stars, a la Jordin Sparks in the upcoming Sparkle — you don't need to be the headliner right out of the gate (you can watch the new Sparkle trailer here). And finally,
Don't
Under any circumstance do your own version of From Justin to Kelly.
Not every Idol vet is looking for an future in film or television, instead opting for cameo roles here and there for the fun of it. Covais, on the other hand, is clearly interested in a legitimate acting career. And his casting in Identity Theft, opposite hot stars Bateman and McCarthy, will do wonders for his line of work.
[Variety]
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