So much for joining a new play.

American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino, who received rave reviews for Broadway bow as Celie in The Color Purple, has extended her run with the musical at the Broadway Theater through 2008.

The acclaimed singer, who was originally scheduled to depart in October, will now stay with the production through Jan. 6, 2008, according to a press announcement.

Fantasia won American Idol in May 2004, in the show's third season, defeating Diana DeGarmo in the final round, who has subsequently appeared on Broadway in Hairspray. Fantasia went on to release two solo albums, "Free Yourself" in 2004 and "Fantasia" in December 2006.

Fantasia previously spoke to Playbill.com about playing the role of Celie, which was created on Broadway by Tony winner LaChanze.

"If you really put yourself in her shoes," Fantasia said, "that can be very tiring. It can take a lot of energy out of you. I know when I get off the stage at night from shows, I'm exhausted. I run to my room, and I fall on the couch, and I have to take at least about ten minutes to wind down and to get my thoughts together and come out of the part of Celie."

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