In the new issue of In Touch, former American Idol star and season two fan favorite Kimberley Locke opens up about her life after the show, how it prepared her for the dark side of the spotlight and where she sees herself in 10 years.

Kimberley says that she owes a lot to American Idol. “It was a huge platform for me,” she says of the groundbreaking singing competition series, which just ended its 15-season run on Fox.

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The star also admitted that the show prepared her to handle the pressures of showbiz. “You have to be very confident and strong in who you are to thrive in this industry,” she explains. “You’re putting your art out there, your talent, all of you — mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually.”

She explains that times have changed since she was on Idol in 2003. “Well, when I was a contestant, there was no YouTube, no Facebook, no Twitter, no nothing! We had flip phones [Laughs]!”

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When asked where she sees herself in 10 years, Kimberley replies, “10 years?! Jesus, I’d better be married! No, I’m joking. I mean, I would like to be married. I don’t think that’s too much of a stretch. And then for me as an artist, I would love to be hosting my own talk show!”

For the full interview with Kimberley Locke, pick up the latest issue of In Touch, on newsstands now!

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