(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Matthew Morrison is relieved he didnt find fame via a reality television show, as struggling made him the performer he is today.
The star portrays teacher Will Schuester on American show Glee, about a group of high school misfits. Before that he appeared on Broadway many times, and also tried out for several series which werent picked up.
Although there were many times when he didnt think he would ever make it, Matthew is proud of the path he took. He admits Glee probably wouldnt have been such a hit if it wasnt for programmes such as American Idol and The X Factor, but hes still glad he wasnt directly involved with them.
I don't think Glee would be around if X Factor and American Idol did not exist. It was inspired by those shows. I'm glad they exist, otherwise I wouldn't be here, he explained. But I'd never have wanted to be on shows like those because I enjoyed my journey. The struggles made me the artist I am.
Matthews main issue with reality singing contests is the instant fame they offer contestants. He worries many people are wholly unprepared for the effect it will have on their lives, and for what happens when they are no longer so recognisable.
People on those shows go from being nothing to everything overnight, and that's not real. I feel bad for them. They get the lifestyle but then can't take the fall, because there's always a fall, he told British newspaper The Sun.
I know Glee will be gone one day. So it is what it is. I do wish I'd planned for the fame side of things more as it is weird. But I love that I didn't go into this business for that reason.
Glee has been a runaway success since its launch, winning many awards and attracting a wide range of special guests. Britney Spears and Olivia Newton John have both appeared, as has Gwyneth Paltrow.
The actress played teacher Holly Holiday who was a love interest for Will, and it has now been confirmed she will return.
Gwyneth is coming back for two episodes. Shes coming back specifically to date Will, co-creator Ryan Murphy said. Those two have become really good friends in real life and had really good chemistry. Shes coming back as a sex education teacher. (C) Cover Media