It’s an open knowledge that Sanjaya Malakar has created an impact in this year’s American Idol, much to the dismay of a whole segment of Idol watchers, and some of the Idol finalist included. Normally, and expectedly, none of this year’s idol finalist would include Sanjaya on their list of favorite singers, but Jordin Sparks is singing a whole new tune this time around…and it’s a good thing. The Associated Press reports:

Until now, when asked her favorite male singers, Jordin Sparks topped the list with John Mayer and Justin Timberlake. But, the effervescent new “American Idol” champ said Wednesday, she’s got another name to add: Sanjaya Malakar.

“He had so much guts,” the 17-year-old “American Idol” winner told The Associated Press. “He had so much strength. He got a lot of criticism, but for him to go out on that stage and hold his head high … I really look up to him for that. He’s just an amazing kid.”

Hahaha Jordin calling Sanjaya a kid. By the way, they’re both 17.