With a new album about to hit stores, Ruben Studdard is ready to return to the spotlight. But will fans recoginize the American Idol winner once he's there?

As he publicizes The Return, Studdard has followers doing a double take. That's because he's lost over 100 pounds - yes, 100 pounds! - thanks to a regimen from the weight management center at Duke university.

The Velvet Teddy Bear told the Today show he was placed on a 1,200 to 1,500 calorie diet during the program and used to weigh over 400 pounds. He's now a vegetarian, as well.

As for the album - available October 17 - Ruben named it The Return because not many people bought I Need an Angel, and are under the impression he hasn't recorded in awhile.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.