‘AMERICAN Idol 2″ winner Ruben Studdard was dubbed “The Velvet Teddy Bear” by Gladys Knight for his girth and his smooth voice – and now he has a cuddly alter-ego to match.

Meet “Ruben Studdard: The Velvet Teddy Bear,” two new dolls from Applause that celebrate the “AI2” winner.

The bears, which will be released in mid-September, will come in two sizes – a 15-inch version retailing from $15 to $19 and a 7-inch version that will cost about $7.50. They both wear the trademark cap Ruben made famous during his run on “AI2.”

The Ruben “Velvet Teddy Bear” now joins other Applause merchandise linked to characters such as Winnie the Pooh, Mickey Mouse, Raggedy Ann, Snoopy and The Simpsons.