The series used the title and imagery of MGM's 1980 film Fame (also about a school of budding triple threat performers) to give the show familiarity utilizing that trademark to American audiences.
Unlike Idol, where the producers had absolutely no connection to any performers before the auditions, Allen personally knew and had worked with a number of those who made it to the final rounds.
In the middle of the season, the show announced they would bring in a "spoiler", a new finalist who could make it to the last round if the public enjoyed their work.
Diorio was introduced on the show as a mere dance instructor, but his actual[1] credits included being a former backup dancer for Fatone's NSYNC, Paula Abdul, Janet Jackson, Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, and dancing in an Academy Awards piece choreographed by Debbie Allen, raising the suspicion of those who auditioned as the spoiler that the work they put into their audition tapes was completely in naught and the 'competition' for that slot was fixed.
Lee's prizes included a record deal, a starring role in the off-Broadway play Fame on 42nd Street, and a free year-long hotel stay.