AMERICAN IDOL - CLARKSON'S PERFORMANCE ANXIETY

AMERICAN IDOL winner KELLY CLARKSON is terrified of performing live, despite stepping on stage every week during the TV talent contest.

The MISS INDEPENDENT beauty, 21 - who will pit her talents against international Idol winners in WORLD IDOL this Christmas (25DEC03) - says that although she has learnt to steady her nerves, she remains frightened of live audiences.

She says, "I have always suffered from stage fright. I had to overcome it by going though American Idol.

"Although the show was one of the most watched TV programmes, it did help me. I learned how to perform and control my fears.

"It is about taking deep breaths and not letting it overwhelm you. I can control it now. I have managed to perform in front of huge crowds, but the nerves never leave me."