Home > American Idol > Archives > 2007 > May
May 2007
Jordin? Fat? Get a grip
Is Jordin Sparks fat?
A week after winning the “American Idol” crown, the 17-year-old is being peppered with questions about her weight. It came up in a recent conference call, and even garnered a mention on Wednesday’s “Ellen DeGeneres Show.”
Seriously, people, how is this anywhere close to appropriate?
Thankfully bubbly Jordin seems to be taking it all in stride — at least publicly.
“Oh, that super-thin stuff — Hollywood needs to get over it,” she told reporters.
But, privately, you know she’s got to be hurting at least a little.
No wonder an estimated 11 million people are battling anorexia or bulimia right now.
Idol chatter …
- Be sure to check out “The Morning Show With Mike and Juliet” all this week.
Jordin performed live this morning, beat-boxing Blake Lewis is up Thursday, and look for sweet, sweet Melinda Doolittle Friday.
“The Morning Show” airs at 9 a.m. weekdays on Fox 7.
- Looks like Season 5 winner Taylor Hicks has made a love connection.
Reports have him linked with Milwaukee newscaster Caroline Lyders. Photos have even surfaced showing them looking awfully cozy at the beach.
“Yes, Taylor and I are friends,” Lyders told OnMilwaukee.com, “and as a journalist I respect your asking. But beyond that, I’d rather not comment on my personal life.”
Not exactly going out of her way to put an end to all the speculation, is she?
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
‘Idol’ Chatter lives!
We’re back!
Yes, after a brief hibernation, the sleeping beast has been awakened.
Admit it, you missed us.
In any event, there’s a lot to talk about.
For starters, Blake Lewis is telling anyone and everyone within earshot he’s pleased as punch he came in second.
“In a sense, I’m kind of glad I didn’t win just for like contractual reasons,” he told reporters on a conference call Friday. “I think if you’re first you might have to come back for like three years or something… I honestly didn’t care one bit of winning or losing because I called myself a winner by getting into the top 10.”
And his thoughts on “This Is My Now,” the song that sealed his “American Idol” fate?
” ‘This is My Now’ is definitely not my style, a song I would never sing if I didn’t have to,” he said. “It fit (Jordin) like perfectly. And I honestly think they should have had two songs that were tailored to both of us.”
“They shouldn’t have given the same song to both male and female — it was more of a female song,” she told People magazine. “What they’ve done the last few years is have songs written for the guys and songs written for the girls.”
Simon Cowell, meanwhile, is still peeved about Melinda Doolittle’s premature departure.
“Melinda should have won,” he proclaimed on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” “She tried the hardest, was consistently the best and had the best voice.”
Amen, Simon. Amen.
He also had a few choice words for the trainwreck that is Britney Spears.
“Lock the door, don’t go out with your stupid friends, have some home-cooked food, get a sense of reality. Go lie in the garden, OK? And then say to yourself, ‘There’s more good in my life than bad. I’m still a rich, talented girl — now I want to get my career back on track.’ End of story.”
Can’t say we disagree.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: And the winner is …
This season’s “Idol” winner is — wait for it — Jordin Sparks.
Gee, what a shocker. Not!
Her short-and-sweet acceptance speech: “Thank you so much for everything.”
Oh, yeah: There were a few “I love you’s” in there, too.
Congrats, Jordin!
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: The end is near
We’ve waited two-plus hours, and our sweet, sweet reward is almost here.
First, though, a solid tribute to The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club” album featuring four of the five previous “Idol” winners. Fantasia, of course, is tied up on Broadway tonight, performing in “The Color Purple.”
For a little added star power, this season’s Top 10 finalists joined in near the end.
Like we said, not bad. Not bad at all.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: All Bettes are off
Still no sign of Britney.
We’re starting to think that rumor was bogus.
We do, however, get to hear the lovely and talented Bette Midler.
She sounds great — as always — but this is the third slow song in a row, and our eyelids are drooping.
Hello … pacing? Anyone?
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Jordin and Ruben
Ladies and gentlemen … please welcome the “Velvet Teddy Bear.”
Joining him tonight is finalist Jordin Sparks.
Another snoozer of a song, if you ask us.
We need something peppy … pronto.
Are you out there, Britney?
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Going gray
It’s Taylor Hicks’ turn.
Can’t say we’re overly impressed.
Apparently America agrees, based on the latest figures from Billboard.
Eyelids. Closing.
Must. Fight. Urge. To. Doze.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Green Day takes the stage
Green Day’s performing as we type and — already — fans on the Web are calling the rockers sellouts for appearing on “Idol.”
Agree? Disagree? Let us know.
Either way, you have to admit they sounded pretty fine.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Sanjaya, the sequel
Yeah, we knew this was coming.
And, truth be told, we don’t mind it all that much.
Sanjaya Malakar is on stage now with Aerosmith’s Joe Perry, sounding … OK. Possibly even a smidge better than OK.
Perhaps we’ve forgiven Mr. Mohawk for nearly derailing the “Idol” franchise. Or maybe, just maybe, we’re delusional after filing near 50 “Idol” blog entries in a span of less than 36 hours.
Either way, the kid’s not half bad.
Rock on, dude!
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Children are the future
Go ahead, we dare you to watch the African Children’s Choir and not crack a smile.
It’s just not possible.
They’re on stage now — looking incredibly adorable — to help draw attention to the “Idol Gives Back” campaign one last time this season.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Clive? Who cares?
RCA Records president Clive Davis on “Idol”?
Welcome to Butt-Kissing 101. And, please, wake us when he’s done babbling.
His “report card” on the past “Idol” winners was about as exciting as watching paint dry.
So why’s he there? To honor Carrie Underwood for selling 6 million records. Apparently no one interesting is qualified to do that.
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Croonin’ Carrie
We have a confession to make: We don’t like country music.
Never have. Never will.
But Carrie Underwood? We’re diggin’ her. And we’re pretty sure you are, too.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Mustang madness
Good news from Ryan: Blake and Jordin each get a shiny new Mustang, courtesy of their friends at Ford.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Spotted
Add these kinda-sorta celebs to our list of folks spotted at the Kodak Theatre: Justin Guarini, Lori Loughlin and Constantine Maroulis.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Mad for Melinda
Admit it, America.
You really, really screwed up.
How in the world could you have voted off Melinda Doolittle?
Her just-completed number with BeBe and CeCe Winans seriously rocked the house.
Such a voice. Such stage presence. Such a good soul. Yep, Melinda has all of the above.
And she’s destined for bigger and better things. Just like Chris Daughtry, Jennifer Hudson and countless other “Idol” rejects before her.
You go, girl!
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Enough already with the Golden Idols
Talk about running a gag into the ground.
The third Golden Idol of the night goes to Kenneth Briggs and Johnathan Jayne.
They won in the Best Friends category.
Simon, you’ll no doubt remember, told Briggs he looked like a bushbaby at the Seattle auditions. Jayne was attacked in the same episode for being overweight.
Both, however, seemed awfully forgiving tonight. Guess a little free exposure will do that to you.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: He’s back
Tony Bennett was a no-show for his performance earlier this season after he was taken out by a nasty flu bug.
Instead, we were treated to the not-so-sweet sounds of Michael Buble.
Tonight, however, 80-year-old Tony’s “Stepping Out.” And he sounds phenomenal.
What a treat!
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Haley and Gladys
Our first Haley Scarnato sighting of the night comes during a number featuring the Top 6 female finalists.
Yes, San Antonio’s best-known singer still looks great as ever.
Joining these lovely ladies is the fabulous Gladys Knight.
We’re soooo digging this.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Another Golden Idol winner
More filler.
Yawn.
The Golden Idol for Most Original Vocal goes to Sholandric Stallworth.
Like we care.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Beat-boxing duel
Didn’t get enough beat-boxing from Blake last night?
Well, the “Idol” showrunners hope to make amends tonight.
He’s on stage right now with Doug E. Fresh, and we can’t help bobbing our head to the beat. Heck, we even cracked a smile. More than once.
So. Very. Cool.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Smokey delights
Smokey Robinson needs no help captivating a crowd.
He’s a musical legend, after all.
But that didn’t stop producers from pairing him up with some of our favorite ‘Idol’ rejects tonight.
The end result? Pretty impressive.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: The Golden Idols
Margaret Fowler takes the first Golden Idol Award of the night.
Surely you remember Margaret, a k a Big Bird. Dear lord, how could you not?
The 50-year-old Atlanta resident had us rolling on the floor when she showed up at an audition earlier this season claiming to be a spry 26 years old.
Yeah, right.
Margaret had us in stitches yet again tonight. After hopping onto the stage, she promptly pounced on host Ryan Seacrest, pinning him to the ground and smooching him for an uncomfortably long time.
A short time later, Big Bird’s cell phone started ringing. Ryan — still looking mighty flustered — answered, telling the caller to buzz off.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Star sightings
While the “Idol” producers waste our time trotting out the same tired clips of “Idol” rejects, we’ll tick off some of the stars we’ve spotted so far: Michael Chiklis, Jeff Foxworthy, David Hasselhoff, Jennifer Hudson and Jerry Springer.
More as they catch our eye.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Kelly!!!
Next up: Texan Kelly Clarkson, the original “Idol,” singing “Never Again” from her soon-to-be released album.
Looks great. Sounds a smidge hoarse. But we’ll forgive her.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Live from …
So Gwen Stefani was the first A-Lister to pop up on tonight’s broadcast, performing “Four in the Morning.”
Gwen, who’s on the road touring right now, told host Ryan Seacrest it’s her favorite song on “The Sweet Escape,” her latest CD.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: The Beatles open the show. Sorta
Randy kicked off the show with a prediction: “Dude, I think it’s gonna be a hot night.”
And, sure enough, things are off to a great start with Jordin and Blake performing The Beatles’ “I Saw Her Standing There.”
They sound great together. They look great together. Hmmm … maybe they should hit the road and perform together.
Yeah, that’s not gonna happen.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Last, but not least
The decidely low-budget pre-show is over. Thankfully.
But, before the hosts signed off, we got to hear from our girl, Melinda Doolittle.
“Please don’t be mad,” she told outraged fans across the country. “I cannot be happier to have gotten to this point.”
OK, we’ll try. No promises, though.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Sanjaya gets the brush-off
Sanjaya Malakar, the guy we love to hate, got no love from the pre-show hosts.
And rightfully so.
After just two quick questions — both about his hair, of course — he was shoved aside for the one and only Paula Abdul.
The topic of conversation? That bizarro weekend mishap, of course.
“I’m OK,” she told the trio. “I tore cartillage, and I have bruises all over my body … but my chihuahua is safe.”
OK, OK … we get it. You tripped over your dog. Cough, cough.
Later, host Steve Edwards managed to do something no one else has done this season: He got Paula to pick a winner.
“I think that Jordin might have the edge,” she said.
Finally!
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Terri Hatcher misses Melinda
Cornered on the red carpet, “Desperate Housewives” star — and “Idol” super-fan — Terri Hatcher refused to pick a winner.
She did, however, admit to missing the dearly departed Melinda Doolittle.
“It would have been amazing to see that voice in that arena,” she told the pre-show hosts.
We couldn’t agree more.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Simon sez
In between puffs on his ciggie, Simon Cowell told “Idol” pre-show hosts Steve Edwards, Dorothy Lucey and Jillian Reynolds he’s eyeing an exit from the show.
Yep, three more seasons and that’s it.
“I’ll be 50,” he said. “It’ll be time to move on.”
Later, Mr. Mean and fiancee Terri Seymour both picked Jordin Sparks as tonight’s winner.
“To me, this was a complete and utter walkover,” Simon said. “There won’t be any surprises.”
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Britney’s comeback?
If you believe what’s on the Web — and why wouldn’t you? — Britney Spears will be tonight’s surprise “American Idol” performer.
We’re cool with that. What about you?
After a nasty divorce, multiple trips to rehab, those tasteless upskirt photos, and that tragic hairdo, our favorite bayou gal definitely needs a break. Or two.
And “Idol” needs a big-name performer to make up for this season’s less-than-stellar crop of performers.
Sounds like a match made in heaven.
Also rumored to be at the Kodak Theatre tonight: Doug E. Fresh and Green Day, as well as former “Idol” winners Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Carrie Underwood and Taylor Hick.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: What others are saying
So we’ve been surfing the Web, checking out what other “Idol” bloggers are saying.
They — big surprise — agree Jordin was tonight’s clear winner.
Boston Globe: OK, people. No fair making Blake sing a song called “This is My Now.” Of course this is the sort of song Jordin is going to knock out of the park. She’s made it clear by now that she prefers to sing treacly ballads - that she wants to be Barbra Streisand. And “Idol” seemed to want Blake — beatboxing, Brought To You By the Argyle Council Blake — to wear a gold lame dress and belt out “The Way We Were.”
Don’t get me wrong; I don’t begrudge Jordin her successes. I think she’s an incredible talent, and she seems a truly likable person (unlike Katharine McPhee last year, who always seemed haughty, like the girl in high school who wouldn’t give you the time of day). I don’t doubt that she’ll win tomorrow night, since the Melinda lovers who swear by the judges’ mantra that “this is a singing competition” will wind up in her camp. And I’m not upset for Blake, since the recent history of “Idol” suggests that he’ll make out just fine.
But I do think tonight’s finale, so heavily weighted toward Jordin as it was, demonstrated the limitations of the show, or perhaps the way “Idol” has been corrupted by its own success.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram: To me, it’s the most lopsided final since Carrie beat Bo Bice and I was a big Bo fan.
And look at Daughtry — the best from last season’s Idol competition and he didn’t even make it to the finals. So, Blake will do fine in his own right.
Congratulations to Jordin and whether she is Mariah-lite or Whitney-lite, she’ll do just fine in some day carving her own niche.
Houston Chronicle: Jordin will be taking home the title Wednesday. And an easy-to-mold star is born.
Palm Beach Post: Yes, as sad as it makes me, I’m predicting that our young beat boxer Blake Lewis is gonna be tomorrow evening’s runner up. Not that he wasn’t in fine performance mode during night one of “American Idol: The Finale That Never Ends, Yes It Goes On And On, My Friends,” because he married the strong vocals that got him to the show with the quirky, energetic stage shenanigans that kept him there.
I just fear that he’s been eaten by an evil but formidable opponent that has defeated more than one stylistically fresh Idolette — the overwrought pageant Idol single. Make no mistake — “This Is My Now” was written by contest winners Scott Krippayne and Jeff Peabody, and not by the usual schlockmeisters that write that “Believe and Achieve What You Conceive Before You Leave Me Here To Grieve” garbage the singers are usually saddled with.
But it’s still pageanty, overwrought and schlocky, and since the talented princess Jordin Sparks owns that particular type of song, it’s pretty much a done deal.
USA Today: “American Idol’s” producers may not have intended it, but the online contest to choose the season’s trophy song may have decided the singing competition as well.
One of the goals of the songwriting contest was to find a fresher song than the tired, cliche-ridden power ballads that professional songwriters had foisted on past Idol winners. The winning song, by pastor Jeff Peabody and a member of his congregation, Scott Krippayne, turned out to be a tired, cliche-ridden power ballad called “This Is My Now” that sounded much like all the songs from back then.
And it was a disaster for Blake Lewis.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: It’s a wrap
It’s over.
Better start dialing … NOW.
While neither finalist was particularly amazing, Jordin has our vote. She just seemed to get better as the night progressed, while Blake stunk up the joint. His take on that last song? Ouch!
As the judges pointed out time and again tonight, Jordin’s the better singer. It’s just that simple. Blake, meanwhile, is the best performer — thanks in large part to his mad beat-boxing skills. Call it a case of style versus substance.
Of course, Melinda puts them both to shame, but she’s long gone. Not that we’re upset or anything.
What’d you think? As always, we want to know. Be sure to post your comments here — and don’t forget to vote in our poll.
See you Wednesday night for the monster two-hour finale.
Looking for more “Idol” chatter? Be sure to check out Diane Holloway’s TV blog.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Surprise Daughtry appearance
Here’s something we thought we’d never, ever see: Chris Daughtry — live — on “Idol.”
Chris has been mighty bitter since he was booted last season. Along the way, he’s said some not-so-nice things about the show.
But here he is — in the company of Paula, Randy and Simon — sounding absolutely amazing singing “Home.”
Guess that best-selling album helped change his views on “Idol.”
Still unanswered: Who will perform tomorrow? Be sure to cast your vote in our poll.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Judges favor Jordin
In case you care: Randy and Simon say the night belongs to Jordin.
Flaky Paula? She stuck to her M.O. and refused to take a side.
There ya have it, folks.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Take 2
Wow!
Jordin’s take on “This Is My Now” is infinitely better than Blake’s.
There’s no comparison whatsoever.
Looks — and sounds — like she just locked this thing up.
What the judges said …
Randy: “You were the best singer tonight. You deserve it, baby.”
Paula: “You have a lot to be proud of.”
Simon: “You just wiped the floor with Blake on that song.”
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: How old is Will Jensen?
Fox 7 has been running promos for its 9 p.m. newscast non-stop all night.
Featured prominently is reporter Will Jensen, who’s been live in Hollywood all week for the “Idol” finale.
With mussed hair and American Eagle/Aeropostale/Abercrombie and Fitch clothes, he looks to be about 12 years old.
Which begs the question: How old is he? Anyone know?
Just curious …
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Songwriting contest winner unveiled
Blake’s third — and final — song of the night is “This Is My Now,” the winning song in “Idol’s” songwriting competition.
The guys behind the song are from Seattle. So’s Blake. Hmmm ….
Can’t say we’re particularly blown away by the song — or by Blake’s performance.
What the judges said …
Randy: “You did a pretty good job with it. It was alright.”
Paula: “I think you did a great job on the song.”
Simon: “I thought it was all a little odd, to be honest with you.”
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Jordin hits a homer
Jordin’s second pick of the night is Martina McBride’s “A Broken Wing,” a song she first performed April 17.
A smart choice back then, and a smart choice now, too.
What the judges said …
Randy: “I still believe you’re probably the most talented 17-year-old singer I’ve ever seen.”
Jordin: “You look adorable, and I’ve got to tell you you’ve got a great, great voice tonight.”
Simon: “Now that was good.”
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: We can’t hear you!
You have to wonder if someone (Simon?) has been playing around with Paula’s microphone.
It’s been cutting in and out all night.
Hello?!? Is there an electrician in the house? Someone? Anyone? Please!
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Will Blake be ‘Loved?
Those Maroon 5 connections are paying off once again for Blake.
His second song of the night is the best-selling band’s “She Will Be Loved.”
A great plug for Maroon 5, whose latest album, “It Won’t Be Soon Before Long,” hit stores today. Ka-ching!
What the judges said …
Randy: “Great song and a very nice vocal.”
Paula: “You sounded great.”
Simon: “It was good. It was safe. It wasn’t as good as the first performance.”
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Mixed reviews
After hearing the first performances of the night from Blake and Jordin, Simon says Blake’s in the lead.
Paula, as usual, refused to pick a favorite.
Randy says Blake was the best performer, but Jordin had better vocals.
So, no consensus. Big surprise.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Jordin’s a ‘Fighter’
Jordin — finally — picks a young-sounding song: Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter.”
Maybe she actually does listen to what the judges say. Sometimes.
What the judges said …
Randy: “You were brilliant. It sounded amazing.”
Paula: “You were stellar. Awesome.”
Simon: “I thought the vocals actually were a bit shrieky in the middle.”
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Blake’s up first
Blake’s on stage after winning the coin toss.
Up first: Bon Jovi’s “You Give Love a Bad Name.” Yes, the song he belted out May 1. Many — us included — felt that was his best performance of the season.
What the judges said …
Randy: “I’ll give you a 10 out of 10 on the beat-boxing. The singing to me was just alright.”
Paula: “I think that you outdid yourself.”
Simon: “You’re not the best singer in the competition, but you are the best performer we had.”
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: So. Much. Makeup.
OK, OK … we’re slightly disappointed.
We just got our first glimpse of Paula Abdul and she doesn’t look that bad for someone who just broke her nose.
Drats!
Yes, her face is slightly puffy, but no bandages or other telltale signs. Kudos to her makeup artist.
“I’m OK,” Paula told host Ryan Seacrest. “I’m just bruised. I tripped over my dog, Tulip. Tulip’s OK.”
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Live ‘Idol’ update: Let’s get this party started
Welcome to our live blog of Tuesday night’s “American Idol.”
As we spout off random thoughts and observations over the next hour or so, feel free to weigh in. It’ll make things much, much more interesting.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Oddsmakers: Jordin will win
Bring up “American Idol” and you’re bound to hear a variety of opinions.
But there is one thing almost everyone seems to agree on: Jordin Sparks will be the big winner Wednesday night.
We checked several betting sites and all of them have the 17-year-old pegged as our next “Idol.”
Voters on Austin360 also favor Jordin.
So … can Blake pull it out? We’ll find out tonight.
Idol chatter …
- Ever wonder how many Americans engage in “Idol” chatter on any given day?
Turns out it’s quite a few.
A new study from the Keller Fay Group puts the number at around 8 million. That makes “Idol” the most talked-about television show (duh!) and the 17th most talked-about brand in the country, ahead of Honda and Nike, among others.
And with the big finale just hours away, you’d better believe all that “Idol” buzz is eating into productivity at offices around the country today. Big time.
Sorry, boss.
- Be sure to check out this blog throughout Tuesday and Wednesday’s shows for live updates.
The fun gets under way at 7 both nights.
We’re particularly looking forward to seeing Paula Abdul’s broken schnoz. Mean, but true.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment |
Paula breaks her nose!
Poor Paula Abdul.
“Extra” reports she broke her nose over the weekend.
A publicist told the show Paula took a tumble while trying to avoid stepping on Tulip, her chihuahua.
Ouch!
No photos available just yet. But rest assured we’ll keep searching.
Idol chatter …
- Who’s going to win Wednesday night: Blake Lewis or Jordin Sparks?
Even Simon Cowell (a k a Mr. Know It All) isn’t certain.
“I can’t call it at this stage,” Cowell told reporters gathered on a conference call. “For Blake Lewis, he’s a brilliant entertainer, but the negative is he’s not a fantastic singer. The advantage for Jordin is she is a great singer and the negative is she hasn’t done one performance yet which I can remember as a ‘wow.’ “
Don’t miss your chance to weigh in by voting in our poll.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Surprise music performer will be …
“American Idol” producers have been mum thus far about who will perform during Wednesday night’s finale.
This much is certain: It’s gonna be someone big. So, the American-Statesman’s crack entertainment staff cobbled together a quick list of 10 likely suspects.
Check it out and cast a vote for your favorite.
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment |
Kelly Clarkson’s dark side
Kelly Clarkson fans are in for a rude awakening when they pick up her new CD next month.
It’s dark. And depressing. In other words, a real downer with none of the cheery, upbeat stuff we’ve come to expect from Clarkson.
“The whole album is a story of the past two years, all the highs and lows,” she tells Entertainment Weekly in this week’s cover story. “It deals with so many situations, whether it’s family, friends, relationships, or myself.”
Sample lyric: “There’s a hole inside of me. It’s so damn cold, slowly killing me.”
Hmmm, does it come with a free Prozac sample? If not, maybe it should.
EW reports Clarkson’s label was so concerned by the singer’s sudden shift that execs delayed “My December” for four months.
“In a time when record labels are under increased economic pressures, they get nervous when a big-selling artist like Kelly wants to take risks and evolve,” Clarkson’s manager, Jeff Kwatinetz, told the magazine.
Will those risks pay off? We’ll find out June 26.
Idol chatter …
- Turns out Phil Stacey will be allowed to take part in the “Idols Live” tour.
“I think they felt that MU3 [musician third class] Stacey has done such a good job with the show and been very gracious in the defeat, and he was great in his interviews afterwards,” Bob Anderson, director of the Navy Office of Information, told Us Weekly. “He always stressed that he appreciated what the Navy did for him, so we wanted to see this thing through.”
In other words, there was an appropriate amount of butt-kissing. Kudos, Phil.
- Look for Fox 7 to pull out all the stops this week, pimping the “American Idol” finale for all it’s worth.
Reporter Will Jensen is in Hollywood, where he’ll file reports for each of the station’s newscasts.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment |
Melinda speaks
Get this: Melinda Doolittle never planned to try out for “American Idol.”
Seems a friend talked her into it at the last minute. Kudos to that friend.
That’s just one tasty tidbit that came out of Melinda’s exit interview.
Also interesting: She wore wigs during most of her performances, something we never picked up on. Did you? Melinda had on Whitney, her favorite, when she was sent home Wednesday night.
Here are some highlights from Thursday’s question-and-answer session with reporters.
TVGuide.com: 72% of our readers are saying that they are very shocked to see you go last night. Now that you’ve had some time to think about it, why do you think that you were sent home last night?
You know what, first of all, I was up against two amazing contestants, so that was part of it to me. I love Jordin and Blake, so I think they did a fabulous job on Tuesday night. But also I know that I was probably getting a little bit of the older vote, which is great. And I had a lot of people come up and say, “You know, I voted for you five times last night.” It was so good. So I have — you know, sometimes they may not spend a full two hours voting or anything like that, and that’s okay. But I really feel like personally that I’ve won as far as, you know, where I ended up in this competition.
TVGuide.com: People here are wondering what kind of album, what style of album do you think you might come out with?
Oh gosh, the only way that I know to describe it is just soul music. You know, anything from the heart. I love a groove; I love anything where I can tell a story. And so to me, I just kind of describe that as soul music. I hope to have just a great soul album.
Life & Style Weekly: What was going through your mind last night when you were called up front for results? And then what was your reaction when he told you the journey was ending for you then and there?
You know what, when he called me up front, just by the nature of the show and how it normally goes, I kind of had an idea that it would be me. So I was kind of prepared for it and I was just kind of taking deep breaths and kind of ready to go to the next step. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be. I thought I was possibly going to lose it, but it was actually a happy occasion that I made it this far. So I’m kind of glad it turned out that way.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Did you get a chance to speak to Simon after the show last night?
I did, and he was ultra-supportive last night. He was just really explaining to me that he really believed in me and wanted to me succeed. And that’s great to hear, especially coming from Simon, you know. But all of the judges were so sweet to me afterwards, and just really encouraging about what’s to come in the future. So I’m looking forward to what’s coming next.
Starry Constellation Magazine: How do you feel about the fans’ shock about the elimination.
You know what, it feels wonderful. And I’m so grateful for people actually being shocked by it. At this point in the competition it’s kind of like, “Well, there’s only three of us, so one of us has to go home.” But I’m just grateful that people wanted me to stick around and believed in me, so that means the world to me.
Click here to read the full transcript.
Idol chatter …
- Don’t forget tickets for the “Idols Live” tour go on sale Saturday morning at 10.
There are two Texas stops: July 15 in Houston and July 16 in San Antonio.
Road trip, anyone?
- Entertainment Weekly is letting readers pick the cover photo for its April 13 edition.
That’s the issue that’ll feature this season’s “Idol” winner, and there are four photos total to choose from — two of Blake and two of Jordin.
So, who’s going to win? Let us know by voting in our poll.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Much ado about Melinda
We already miss Melinda Doolittle.
And apparently so do many of you.
Last night’s surprising “American Idol” outcome has had tongues wagging all day. Traffic for this blog — and others like it — has jumped considerably, as well.
So what’s everyone saying? Be sure to check out the 30-plus comments posted on our site — half pleased, half displeased.
Elsewhere on the Web, here’s a sampling of what you’ll find:
“American Idol” Worship: Some believed she was the best singer in the history of American Idol.
But even that wasn’t enough to save Melinda Doolittle last night. The humble, amazing vocalist received the least number of votes and was surprisingly sent home by Ryan Seacrest at the end of the hour.
But was it really so surprising? The core audience of the FOX show is more likely to vote for a cute, fun-loving male such as Blake Lewis; or a younger, more charismatic singer such as Jordin Sparks (who deserves to win it all next week).
In the end, it wasn’t Melinda’s fault. This show has always been about more than mere vocal range and talent.
Boston Globe: No one ever said “American Idol” was only about singing. It can be about style and swagger as much as anything, which is probably why Melinda Doolittle was voted off the show last night.
Yes, her vocal performances consistently put the other finalists to shame, as she belted out R&B songs and delivered delicate ballads with equal power and commitment. While Jordin Sparks has tended to screech and Blake Lewis’ voice has a squeaky quality, Doolittle seems physically incapable of letting her full-bodied notes land poorly.
But that grace took the 29-year-old from Tennessee only so far. She has none of Sparks’ youthful sparkle, and she doesn’t traffic in Lewis’ hip-now-teen-beat. As Simon Cowell may have feared, her modesty turned off voters who prefer their idols to be confident and self-assured. Doolittle just couldn’t get her diva on. Now she’ll have to settle for taking strolls on Melinda Doolittle Way back in Nashville and knowing that she was Cowell’s favorite.
Dallas Morning News: Some of us have said for a while now that we didn’t really care who won this season’s “American Idol.”
It turns out, we did care. We just thought we didn’t have to worry, because the best singer pretty much had it wrapped up.
Melinda Doolittle — the only contestant who was never once dissed by the judges, who delivered chills every week, who transformed before our eyes into a confident, sharp-dressing diva — was voted off Wednesday night.
That leaves us with the wildly inconsistent Jordin Sparks and one-beat wonder Blake Lewis in the finale. So who will prevail? It could go either way. We’re looking at a nail-biter the likes of Ruben and Clay.
Houston Chronicle: Melinda Doolittle, despite every prediction to the contrary, is going home. To put it bluntly, there’s simply no excuse. Voters got it wrong.
Next week, then, we’ll get hefty doses of Jordin Sparks’ gushing girlishness and Blake Lewis’ modern artistry. There’s talent in that duo, yes. But I fear a repeat of last year’s Katharine McPhee/Taylor Hicks snooze-inducing finale.
In other words, anticlimactic and underwhelming. Minus the soul-patrol shakes.
Maybe it was in the cards, since this year had yet to deliver the usual shocker.
MTV: Sometimes, being the best isn’t even good enough.
That’s the lesson 29-year-old “American Idol” finalist Melinda Doolittle learned Wednesday night when she was eliminated from the show and shut out of next week’s finale despite winning the praise of all three judges week after week for her strong, consistent singing.
If there’s another lesson we’ve learned this year on “Idol,” it’s to stay away from the ironic message T-shirts on elimination night. Doolittle’s gothic-script black T said it all: “death cheater.”
USA Today: So has there ever been a worse decision at the final 3 level before?
I would have to conclude, given Melinda’s clear vocal superiority over both Jordin and Blake, that this was the worst final three decision — if vocal ability and performance are your main criteria. If you’re one of those people that like to include personality, looks, “marketability” (which shouldn’t be any of the voters’ concern), and various intangibles, then it’s defensible.
Keep on sharing your thoughts and opinions with us. We’ll post ‘em all. And be sure to vote in our latest poll.
Photo courtesy of Fox
Place your bets now!
[an error occurred while processing this directive]A huge ‘Idol’ shocker
Tell us this is some sort of nightmare.
A really, really bad nightmare.
Melinda Doolittle is gone. And “American Idol” has just become a complete and total joke.
Yes, we really did just type that.
This is supposed to be a contest that rewards talented musicians. Instead, it’s a big ol’ popularity contest for mediocre singers with movie-star good looks.
Need proof? Just look at our two finalists: Jordin Sparks and Blake Lewis.
Jordin’s performances Tuesday night showcased her inexperience. Her less-than-tactful responses to the judges’ critical comments highlighted her immaturity. But, hey, she’s pretty, right?
And there’s absolutely nothing good to be said about Blake’s three trips to the mike this week. Again, though, he’s cute enough to make girls swoon. And isn’t that what’s really important in life?
So Melinda’s gone, but she definitely won’t be forgotten. We’re sure she’ll record a best-selling album after the “Idols Live” tour — and we’ll be first in line to buy it.
Actually, looking at the success — and we use that term loosely — of past “Idol” winners, maybe it’s a good thing she’s out of the running. At least that’s what we’ll keep telling ourselves.
Anyway, we’re done ranting. Feel free to attack us in the comment box below.
‘Do or die’ for the final 3
The end is near.
Really and truly.
Hard to believe, isn’t it?
“American Idol” treated us to three songs from each of three remaining finalists Tuesday night. No silly theme to contend with this week, thank goodness.
There was lots to like, but there were also lots of head-scratchers. Here’s what we thought:
Judges’ picks
Jordin Sparks: “Wishing on a Star,” Rose Royce. Pretty evident she’d never heard this song before. That’s not a knock; we hadn’t either. Our point: She seemed uncomfortable, especially at the beginning. Things got a little better as time passed. Spent most of her time hiding behind the microphone stand. The voice? It was solid, as usual. Paula: “You did a beautiful job. It’s a great way to start this show.” Our grade: B
Blake Lewis: “Roxanne,” The Police. This is not the Blake we know. Nothing creative or different. A pretty straight take on the original that sounded like something you’d hear at karaoke bar. A tired comparison? Yes, but apt in this case. Very apt. Not a good way to start the evening. Simon: “I’m not gonna call that earth-shattering, because it wasn’t.” Our grade: C+
Melinda Doolittle: “I Believe in You and Me,” Whitney Houston. A little slow to start, but, oh, what an ending. A homerun! This is not an easy song, folks. But Melinda’s vocal range is absolutely amazing. Actually, everything about her is amazing. Two more performances like this and she’ll have a lock on a spot in the finals. Randy: “That was hot. You blew it out of the park.” Our grade: A
Producers’ picks
Jordin: “She Works Hard for the Money,” Donna Summer. Another one where Jordin doesn’t seem 100 percent sure of herself. The showrunners have made things tough for the 17-year-old by routinely choosing songs recorded well before her time. Still, Jordin again makes the best of a less-than-ideal situation. A few bright spots — especially near the end, when she really let loose. Paula: “You worked hard for the money tonight. I thought that was fantastic.” Our grade: B
Blake: “This Love,” Maroon 5. We love this song. Seriously, you have no idea. We know all the words, and we even own the CD. But coming out of Blake’s mouth it didn’t sound all that great. For starters, the gratuitous beat boxing seemed out of place. Is he doing it to please us — or himself? Either way, not good. Simon: “You sounded very comfortable; didn’t sound like a copycat performance. That was good.” Our grade: C
Melinda: “Nutbush City Limits,” Ike and Tina Turner. With all the Tina Turner comparisons we’ve heard this season, this one was a no-brainer. And Melinda nailed it. Probably the best “Idol” performance we’ve ever seen. Seriously. Loved the outfit. Loved the way she worked the stage. Loved every second of it, as a matter of fact. Randy: “Once again, another great, really stellar performance from you.” Our grade: A+
Finalists’ picks
Jordin: “I (Who Have Nothing),” Ben E. King. What a weird choice! Not at all what we expected. Perhaps this was a strategic selection to reach older “Idol” viewers? That’s all we can think of. Not a bad performance. Not at all. But we expected something that sounded considerably younger. Randy: “I think that was your best performance of the night. Way to go.” Our grade: A-
Blake: “When I Get You Alone,” Robin Thicke. A sorry performance of a sorry song. Another one from the “What Were They Thinking?” Department. Blake certainly did himself no favors tonight. Simon: “I actually really liked it.” Our grade: C-
Melinda: “I’m a Woman,” Peggy Lee/Little Willie John. So much attitude from this season’s sweetheart. But it totally worked. So did those smooth moves. And that voice! Does she ever flub? We doubt it. She’s gonna be hard to beat next week. Paula: “What I love about this performance is that you’re stepping out into the spotlight with no regrets, no looking back and celebrating your whole journey.” Our grade: A
Who’s heading home Wednesday night? Well, we’d be shocked — yes, shocked — if Blake survives. Things just seemed to fall apart for him tonight. What’d you think? Be sure to post your comments, and don’t forget to vote in our poll.
Who’ll get voted off this week?
[an error occurred while processing this directive]Permalink | |
‘Idol’ hopefuls head home
Everyone needs a vacation.
Even the three remaining “American Idol” finalists.
Melinda Doolittle, Blake Lewis and Jordin Sparks fled Hollywood on Friday and headed to their respective hometowns, where each received a hero’s welcome. And, as you might expect, Fox’s cameras were on hand to record every single second.
In Nashville, Tenn., Melinda made a stop at Belmont University, where she served a stint as the school’s mascot while earning a music degree. Officials there named a street Melinda Doolittle Way in her honor.
“If I talk too much, I’ll cry,” she said. “You have no idea how much this means to me. … This is probably one of the most amazing things I’ve ever experienced.”
Doolittle also met with Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen, stopped by her church and gulped down a glass of sweet tea, according to The Tennessean, Nashville’s newspaper. Click here for photos.
Blake, meanwhile, took Seattle by storm, performing alongside Sir Mix-A-Lot at a free concert.
“Every time you watch ‘American Idol,’ you see people that can sing, and that’s it,” Mix-A-Lot said. “This cat got real talent. … He’s the new king of Sea-town, baby.”
Other stops included a parade in his hometown of Bothell, according to the Seattle Times, and the Mariners-Yankees game at Safeco Field, where he sang the national anthem. Click here for photos.
In Glendale, Ariz., more than 5,000 people turned out for a performance by Jordin. Some in the crowd reportedly baked in the triple-digit heat for up to five hours to see the 17-year-old.
“You guys are crazy, but I love you for it,” Sparks told the crowd.
She also popped in at her high school, according to The Arizona Republic, and signed autographs at the shopping mall where she used to work. Click here for photos.
Look for scenes from all three homecomings on Tuesday’s “Idol,” which airs at 7 p.m. on Fox.
An ‘Idol’ spinoff? But of course
It should come as no surprise that the fine folks at Fox are looking to capitalize even further on the success of “American Idol.”
They’d be foolish not to.
So what’s up their sleeves? An “Idol”-like competition for bands tentatively titled “The Search for the Next Great American Band.”
How original.
Host Ryan Seacrest made the announcement during Wednesday night’s live broadcast, but details — such as when the show will air — are still relatively scarce.
With all the great talent in Austin, a local band is all but guaranteed a spot on the show. If you’re interested in entering, head to the official “Idol” site.
Idol chatter …
- The rumors are swirling about Blake Lewis and Antonella Barba after last week’s gag-inducing display of affection.
Are they really an item?
Say it ain’t so, Blake.
- Simon Cowell’s quite the lady’s man, according to the recently booted LaKisha Jones.
“He is a good kisser and I will do it again,” LaKisha told reporters Thursday. “His lips were soft and thin.”
No word on whether anyone lost their lunch after hearing that.
The rest of the question-and-answer session was — wait for it — boring and predictable. But we’re used to that by now.
Permalink | |
Losing LaKisha
LaKisha Jones is history. (Click here for video.)
Can’t say that comes as much of a shock. We called it. So did you.
LaKisha started the season so very strong. Her take on Jennifer Holliday’s “And I Am Telling You” way back in February was phenomenal. So phenomenal we predicted she’d win it all. Oops.
Unfortunately, that song may have been her undoing. It’s what she’s been compared to each week since then. And none — yes, none — of her performances have even come close.
What’s next for LaKisha? The single mom has the “Idols Live” tour this summer, and a recording contract can’t be far behind. In short, she — and her daughter — are likely set for life.
So we’re down to three. Melinda Doolittle, Blake Lewis and Jordin Sparks will duke it out next week. Blake’s the weakest link now, and it’s a safe bet he’ll soon be history.
A Melinda-Jordin finale? We can live with that. How ‘bout you?
Idols are ‘Stayin’ Alive’ … barely
What a freakin’ mess.
Who in the world thought it was a good idea to have a Bee Gees night on “American Idol”? (Click here for video.)
Making matters worse: Each contestant “treated” us to two performances. Gag!
Round 1
Melinda Doolittle: “Love You Inside and Out.” Let’s be honest: It’s not that great of a song to begin with. But Melinda tried her darnedest to make something of it. For that, we give her credit. The performance was solid, but not that memorable. This late in the game, that’s not good. Not good at all. Simon: “You are better than that.” Our grade: B
Blake Lewis: “You Should Be Dancing.” Gender-bending, anyone? We’re pretty sure that freaky, high-pitched voice — which we’ve never heard before and will, hopefully, never hear again — shattered a glass or two. Possibly even a plasma TV. Blake looked like he was having a ton of fun but we just weren’t digging it. Even with the addition of a smidge of beat boxing. Randy: “Sometimes when you do the beat boxing, it works. Tonight it didn’t work. That song didn’t need any of that.” Our grade: B-
LaKisha Jones: “Stayin’ Alive.” This is the song everyone should’ve fought to sing. LaKisha was smart to pick it. Loved how she worked the stage. Performance oozed attitude. This is the LaKisha we know and love from earlier this season. You go, girl. Simon: “The performance was verging on scary in parts.” Our grade: A
Jordin Sparks: “To Love Somebody.” The good: Jordin looks stunningly beautiful tonight. The bad: Her performance, like the others so far, lacks that certain something. Very subdued — and very vanilla. Randy: “Jordin, so far you’re winning tonight. You’re in it to win it.” Our grade: B+
Round 2
Melinda Doolittle: “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?” A few moments that made us smile but, again, quite bland overall. Vocals were — and always are — flawless. Melinda has nailed every single performance all season long. Tonight, however, has been rough. Randy: “You’re our resident pro. You know you’ve got it going on.” Our grade: B+
Blake Lewis: “This is Where I Came In.” We’re pretty sure that’s the only sweater Blake owns. Maybe he can afford another one if he wins. Lots of energy. A great voice. But it’s an obscure song — for a reason. Even Barry Gibb was surprised Blake picked it. Paula: “Blake you are the contemporary rebel in this competition. I don’t know that song, but I do know I enjoyed you singing it.” Our grade: A-
LaKisha Jones: “Run to Me.” It appears the producers — and contestants — have forgotten “Idol’s” target demographic. These songs may go over well at this weekend’s VFW dance, but teens, 20- and 30-somethings aren’t about to rush out and pick up a Bee Gees CD. Instead of getting us up on our feet, LaKisha and others are putting us to sleep. A slight case of puberty voice near the end made things mildly interesting. Simon: “It was better than the first song, but it still wasn’t great.” Our grade: B
Jordin Sparks: “A Woman in Love.” The night’s best performance — but that’s not saying much. Great looks, great voice. Still, we’ve seen better from her. Simon: “I thought it was old-fashioned and very pageanty. You’re 17, Jordin!” Our grade: A
Honestly, we have no idea which “Idol” America will boot based on these performances. They were incredibly horrid for this late in the season. But we continue to believe LaKisha is the weakest of the remaining four, so our money’s on her. Disagree? Let us know. And be sure to vote in our poll.
And a quick note to Barry: Lay off the man-tan. Seriously, you look ridiculous.
The next person to go will be …
[an error occurred while processing this directive]Kelly Clarkson’s new album: Trash or treasure?
The show must go on for Kelly Clarkson.
The original “American Idol” still plans to release her new album this summer — despite published reports that RCA president Clive Davis wasn’t too impressed with “My December.”
And that’s putting things mildly. Some sites even suggested the entire album — Clarkson’s third — would be scrapped.
“Clive was absolutely merciless in his criticism of Kelly,” an insider told London’s Daily Star. “She’s one of the biggest priorities on the label and her new songs were savaged.”
Hours after that story hit the Web, RCA issued a news release insisting things were still on track for a July 24 release. And, in fact, you can already hear the first single, “Never Again,” on a handful of Austin radio stations.
So, much ado about nothing? Looks like we’ll find out in a few months.
Idol chatter …
- Tamyra Gray, a fan favorite from “Idol’s” first season, has landed a spot on Broadway.
Look for her in “Rent” beginning May 29.
This won’t be Tamyra’s first acting gig. She’s popped up on a number of TV shows, and also starred in the Broadway production of “Bombay Dreams” a few years back.
- Another “Idol” alum has also landed a plumb role: Constantine Maroulis joins the cast of “The Bold and the Beautiful” next week.
CBS isn’t divulging much, but we do know Constantine will stick around for a few months and, yes, he will sing a song or two.
Ladies, start your swooning.
Navy may recall Phil
Turns out Phil Stacey may not be a part of this summer’s “Idols Live” tour.
Why? Well it appears the Navy’s itching to deploy him.
The Los Angeles Times reports the sailor’s next assignment is still being discussed and nothing’s for certain just yet. Should Phil be sent to Afghanistan or Iraq, as the newspaper suggests, Stephanie Edwards would likely take his place.
“My primary responsibility is to the United States Navy,” Phil said during a press conference held Thursday. “The possibility exists they’ll need me for admissions. If that’s the case, I’m committed to follow through. So far, they’ve been 100 percent flexible. They’ve been a huge support system for me. I give the Navy all the props for even letting me do what I’m doing at this point.”
Seems like the Navy would want to take full advantage of all the free publicity Phil’s been providing by allowing him to take part in the multi-state tour. But we are talking about the government, so perhaps that makes too much sense.
Idol chatter …
- Now’s the time to cast your vote in the “American Idol” songwriting competition.
Head to the show’s official Web site to check out the Top 20 entries.
Tuesday’s the last day to weigh in.
- YouTube has portions of the 911 call made after Jessica Sierra allegedly attacked a man last weekend at a Tampa, Fla., restaurant.
Nothing too exciting, but if you’ve got time to waste …
- The Associated Press asked each of the presidential hopefuls to name their favorite reality TV program and — big surprise — “Idol” was a popular answer.
Sen. Hillary Clinton, Sen. Chris Dodd and ex-Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney all say they’re fans of the show.
Permalink | |
Chris, Phil get canned
America’s nightmare is finally over.
Yes, it’s time to celebrate: Chris Richardson is gone from “American Idol.” And not a moment too soon.
We’re still not certain how someone with no discernible talent made it this far. Perhaps Sanjaya Malakar can fill us in …
In any event, the Justin Timberlake look-alike is history. (Insert thunderous applause here.)
We’re not so pleased about Wednesday night’s second castaway.
Phil Stacey is also outta here, which stinks because we were just starting to see all he has to offer.
But Phil has no one to blame but himself. Better song choices earlier in the season might well have carried him to the finals.
So now we’re left with just four hopefuls: Melinda Doolittle, LaKisha Jones, Blake Lewis and Jordin Sparks. Rank ‘em here.
We suspect LaKisha is next to go, followed by either Blake or Jordin. The last contestant standing will face Melinda in the finals.
Let the betting begin.
Looking for more “Idol” chatter? Be sure to check out Diane Holloway’s TV blog.
‘Idols Live’ tour misses Austin
Hope you’re up for a road trip.
The list of stops is out for this year’s ‘Idols Live’ tour — and Austin isn’t on the list.
You can, however, catch the show at Houston’s Toyota Center on July 15 or San Antonio’s AT&T Center on July 16. Tickets go on sale May 19 at 10 a.m.
This season’s Top 10 “American Idol” finalists will perform: Melinda Doolittle, Gina Glocksen, LaKisha Jones, Blake Lewis, Sanjaya Malakar, Chris Richardson, Haley Scarnato, Chris Sligh, Jordin Sparks and Phil Stacey.
Expect the San Antonio show to sell out especially fast since that’s Haley’s hometown.
See you there.
Idol chatter …
- The “Idol Gives Back” campaign has now raised close to $70 million.
Host Ryan Seacrest delivered the good news during Tuesday night’s show, which featured a surprise taped appearance by President George W. Bush and wife Laura.
“We thank ‘American Idol’ viewers who have shown the good heart of America,” the president said. “We thank all the celebrities who participated, including Bono, and all the contestants who sang their hearts out for these children.”
Many have asked how much mean ol’ Simon Cowell gave. Well, Access Hollywood reports he made a “sizeable” donation.
“I did make a very significant, very significant six-figure sum,” he said. “But I didn’t feel comfortable saying that on the show.”
- Something cool: The official “Idol” Web site has downloadable bobbleheads featuring the Top 12 finalists.
Stop by today and grab one for your desktop. They’re free.
We picked Melinda, but you probably figured that out already.
Permalink | |
Oh, what a night!
An entire hour featuring nothing but Bon Jovi songs?
Lots of folks had doubts.
Us included.
But what a surprise! Tuesday night’s show could very well go down as the best so far this season.
Phil Stacey: “Blaze of Glory.” The rebound continues. Phil’s been singing this one since he was 15 — and it shows. He nailed it, working the crowd — and working up a sweat. More smart choices like this and Phil could very well go all the way. What a shock that’d be! Paula: “This is the best opening I think we’ve had all season long.” Our grade: A
Jordin Sparks: “Living On a Prayer.” The ’80s hair. The outfit. The voice. We loved it! Rock’s not her thing, and Jordin knew going in that she’d be at a disadvantage. But, to her credit, she never, ever gave up. And the end result was pretty darn impressive. Scored extra points for not arguing with the judges,who were less the complimentary. Simon: “The look … it was like something out of ‘The Addams Family.’ As for the singing, Jordin, it was just out of control.” Our grade: ” B+
LaKisha Jones: “This Ain’t a Love Song.” LaKisha puts a slightly soulful twist on this not-so-well-known Bon Jovi tune. The beginning was rough. And we do mean rough. But the end was killer. The big question, as usual: Which part will viewers remember? Nice to see a little more personality than we’re used to. Randy: “By the middle of the song, you sold me and you sold everyone here in the audience. You blew that outta the box.” Our grade: B-
Blake Lewis: “You Give Love a Bad Name.” He dyed his hair! What’s up with that? OK, OK … once we got past the new look, we really, really liked Blake’s gutsy take on this Bon Jovi classic. Very edgy. Very modern. Very … Blake. Beat boxing and Bon Jovi … who’da thunk it? Let’s just hope this risky move — and it was quite risky — brings a sweet, sweet reward Wednesday night. Randy: “I’ll give you the award for the most original version of a song ever on ‘American Idol.’ You took a leap of faith and you won.” Our grade: A
Chris Richardson: “Wanted Dead or Alive.” Send him home already. Sheesh! So whiny, as always. And that’s just the beginning. Everything about Chris annoys us. Surely he’s wearing on America’s nerves, too. We can only hope. Simon: “I think you did as much as you could possibly do with that song because this is not your style of music.” Our grade: C-
Melinda Doolittle: “Have a Nice Day.” Good lord, she’s soooooo adorable. We were a little scared about this one — and so was Melinda. But our fears were put to rest the moment she opened her mouth. Pure gold, as always. She owned it. Such a powerful presence on stage. In one word: Flawless. Simon: “I thought it was like a young Tina Turner. I don’t know this song very well, but I thought vocally you were in a different league than everyone else tonight.” Our grade: A+
Our picks to go home this week are Chris and LaKisha. They appear to be the weakest links right now. Agree? Disagree? Bring it on. And don’t forget to vote in our poll.
Looking for more “Idol” chatter? Be sure to check out Diane Holloway’s TV blog.
