American Idol 8 contender Joanna Pacitti has come under fire for using the world’s most popular amateur singing competition to boost what many feel is already a well-established career

in showbusiness.

Joanna was once signed to A&M Records. During that time she not only recorded an album, but had songs featured on the soundtracks for movies like Legally Blonde (“Watch Me Shine”), Bratz (“Out From Under”), First Daughter, and Nancy Drew. In fact, “Out From Under” was re-recorded by Britney Spears on her most recent CD, Circus.

The 24-year-old joined the cast of Broadway’s Annie in 1997 at the age of 11. But, she and her family ended up suing producers after Joanna was replaced in the show after she became sick with bronchitis. Her mother filed suit for $50 million, but settled with producers out of court.

She eventually released the 2006 album, This Crazy Life, on Geffen Records

The brunette previously dated Dancing With the Stars professional Mark Ballas, according to his manager.

Is Joanna Pacitti’s experience too broad for her to compete on American Idol fairly?Joanna Pacitti