Sanjaya was always a favourite with women

"American Idol" star Sanjaya Malakar, who was voted out last week, says he has always been popular with women.

"I've always gotten along with girls better because I was raised by women," he was quoted as saying by people.com.

His parents divorced when he was three and he was close to his mom and sister who influenced him greatly. But he also got picked on for this.

He said: "I got teased in school because people figured I must be gay because I understand women. I think that's why guys didn't like me because I got along with girls so well. When I went up to girls they would give me a hug and a kiss on the cheek like I was their gay friend. But I was the straight guy that understood them."

Speaking of his dating history he added: "I had a girlfriend but she became clingy, and I didn't want to get into a really serious relationship because I was 16. I just wanted to date and have fun."