Having this other career in music made me work harder as an actress. It's made me more professional.

I would never discredit anyone that is working their way up on a show like "American Idol." I think they work so hard overcoming all of the obstacles to get on the show in the first place and then every week they are judged in front of all of America... I give them complete credit for getting up on stage... I think they deserve all the success that they get.

Music is my first love.

Being honest...[to reporters] Not the worst thing in the world. Don't write that down.

I love music and I guess I have less expectations or pressure to kind of put on myself because the music hasn't been some huge sensation.

Growing up in the public eye was really tough. When you're 14 and your body is changing, your life is changing, and people are watching every step you make, it's really hard to deal with. But I was pretty lucky, people didn't watch me that closely.

I've never been engaged. I definitely believe in the institution of marriage.