Kellie Pickler Tells 'Idol' Contenders: 'Stay Away From Mean People'

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FIRST PUBLISHED: February 13, 2008 6:09 PM EST
LAST UPDATED: February 13, 2008 6:50 PM EST

LOS ANGELES, Calif. --

As “American Idol” narrows down the field of contenders to 24, former "Idol" hopeful-turned-recording artist Kellie Pickler has some advice for the new crop.

“Stay away from mean people,” the perky blonde told People. “Of course that’s with any profession.”

Pickler, who made it to the final 10 on Season 5 of the popular Fox show, suggested that the new crop “surround yourself with people that support and pray for you.”

Pickler said being in front of millions on television every week had a big effect on her personal life.

“I lost so many people,” she said. “No one that I was close with before am I even remotely close to now. I have maybe three people in my life now that have been amazing through the whole process.”

One person Pickler did keep along for the ride was fellow contender Katharine McPhee.

She admitted she was bridesmaid at the former “Idol” runner-up’s wedding to Nick Cokas.

“Kat and I were roommates (on 'Idol') and built a bond that I was not able to build with anyone else on the show,” she said. “She instantly became like a big sister to me and Nick became like a big brother. I’m so blessed to have them in my life.”