Clay Aiken's story to be highlighted on E! Dec. 12

Clay Aiken may have finished a close second to Ruben Studdard in Season Two of the mega-hit reality series "American Idol," but the 29-year-old North Carolina native turned his loss into a major victory. His first album, "Measure of a Man," became the number-one-selling solo debut from an artist in a decade, launching several cross-country concert tours. From there, the popular crooner authored a best-selling book, worked as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and took center stage on Broadway.

As his fame grew, Clay maintained a squeaky-clean image, but in 2008, he shocked even his most beloved fans with news that he fathered a child with his 50-year-old record producer, Jaymes Foster. Then, following years of rumors about his sexuality, Clay finally set the record straight and publicly announced he was gay in September of this year.

This revealing episode features an exclusive interview with former Army Green Beret John Paulus, who claims he was romantically involved with Clay for one night in 2006. There's also a new interview with Clay's number-one fan, comedian Kathy Griffin, who explains she was afraid she would run into Clay after joking about him during her act. Other new interviews include: actor/director Terrence Mann, who directed Clay in regional theater when he was just starting out; Rickey Smith, a finalist with Clay on "American Idol," who shares his opinion of Clay's performance on the show, as well as his reaction to Clay becoming a proud father; Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLADD) President Neil Guiliano, who comments on Clay's recent controversial announcement; and several devoted Clay fans at a performance of his Broadway show, "Spamalot."

In addition, the special contains unique video of Clay from his early years, including footage of him performing as a wedding singer and appearing in a local stage production of "Oklahoma!" Clay Aiken: The E! True Hollywood Story" premieres Friday, December 12 at 9pm ET/PT on E!