Scotty McCreery, who won season 10 of American Idol 15 years ago, has recalled being physically stopped by security from leaving the show's set on his only day off, when he had hoped to attend a baseball game. Speaking on the podcast Taste of Country Nights, the country singer described the show as a "seven day a week job" with no free time, though he says he remains grateful for the experience that launched his career.

McCreery said producers discovered his plan to leave the premises and had security block his exit. Despite the demanding schedule, he has gone on to release multiple albums and tour widely since his win, and has no plans to retire, though he expects to scale back touring as his two young sons with wife Gabi grow older and start school and sporting activities. The interview coincided with the release of his retrospective album, Fifteen, marking 15 years since his Idol victory.