Ruben Studdard was kicked off of the reality show “Biggest Loser” last night. His “Idol” star power and status as the heaviest contestant this season made him a fan favorite, but he was just not up to the challenge of keeping up with his counterparts on the show.

This week, he had to lose 11 pounds to stay. He only lost 5, according to Reality TV magazine.

On the show, he said, “This experience is one of the toughest things I’ve been through. I’ve been through two-a-day football practices; I’ve been through the American Idol experience; I’ve been through a lot of mentally and physically challenging experiences in my life. And this, you know, ranks right up there at the top.”

The main reason he didn’t measure up this week appears to have been a temptation challenge in which Ruben indulged WAY more than is ever wise for a contestant that is in danger of elimination. However, he is not letting it get him down. He did, after all, lose 40 pounds, and that’s a pretty serious start!

In a blog, he wrote, “I’m glad that I had the courage to come to the ranch and show the world that you’re never too far away to turn and go right.” He continued, “I may not be the Biggest Loser, but I am a champion!”

His attitude will go a long way in insuring that he will continue on his weight loss plan. “My goal coming to The Biggest Loser ranch was to leave here a changed person,” he said after his elimination. “I think I reached that goal.”

Good for him! We’re still rooting for you, Ruben!

Image via youtube