Sunday, July 17, 2005

"American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood is filling the shoes of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera -- at least in an ad campaign. Underwood agreed to an endorsement deal with Skechers, a California sneaker maker that has also used Spears and Aguilera in its advertising. "It is such a hip company with a great attitude and image," said Underwood, whose first single, "Inside Your Heaven" debuted at No. 1 on four music charts.

Jessie Schmidt, Underwood's publicist, wouldn't say how much the deal will pay. The company said the deal gives it the right to advertise footwear using the 22-year-old singer's image through December 2006. Luke Sharpe, president of Sharpe Dry Goods, a store that sells Skechers, said Underwood will attract young shoppers. "They all want to be like Carrie," he said. "They just can't sing."