Fantasia Has A Hit!

We didn’t see this coming!

Fantasia for Real, the new reality show that follows American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino, actually has viewers – and quite a few!

The series premiere brought in 2.3 million viewers, making it the #2 non-sports original cable series for the day. And that’s a big accomplishment for VH1.

Barrino is releasing her third album in March and will return to star in The Color Purple when the musical hits El Lay.

“She is a unique talent who, like Celie, the lead character she plays in the show, has her own set of personal struggles and challenges,” said Purple producer, Scott Sanders. “But, just as Celie does in Purple, I know that Fantasia will always face her challenges head on and triumph over any obstacles put in her way.”

For Real follows the singer as she struggles to balance her career, family and the difficulties of being a single mother.

Who knew?!

[Image via WENN.]