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Home > Blogs > Reality Bytes > Archives > 2010 > February > 09 > Entry
Hello Ellen, Hello Hollywood: Did you spot the next “Idol”?
Let the competition begin.
After a seven-city national search, 181 people hoping to be named the ninth “American Idol” performed on stage at Hollywood’s Kodak Theatre hoping to show the panel of four judges why they deserve a spot in the Top 24.
And the moment fans have been waiting for … Ellen DeGeneres made her “Idol” debut during the first Hollywood Week episode (Feb. 9).
She certainly isn’t stepping in to be the “nice judge” like her predecessor. Ellen’s blunt yet humorous commentary really complements Simon’s brutal honesty. For example, she told the really arrogant Atlanta contestant Skiiboski that he was scary and he appeared to be stalking them, and certainly wasn’t afraid to tell people their performance pretty much sucked.
Already, I have to wonder if Kara and Randy will get a word in this season?
In the end, it will be down to 12 guys and 12 girls — and looking at the crop of multi-talented musicians who shined tonight, the judges could face some tough choices this season. Here’s a look at who survived the first cut (and who didn’t).
In: The very genuine 17-year-old Katie Stevens (the sweet girl whose story includes a grandma battling Alzheimers), worship pastor Tasha Leighton, Charity Vance, Ashley Rodriguez, Todrick Hall and guitarist Tim Urban
In and well on their way to the Top 24: Andrew Garcia took a huge risk and sang an acoustic “Straight Up” by former Idol judge Paula Abdul. Um, way better than the original. (Can you imagine how Paula would have reacted). Janell Wheeler (pretty blonde guitarist with a great stage presence). Guitarist Haeley Vaughn (the aspiring black pop-country singer). 28-year-old mama Rocker Mary Powers (who sounds a lot like Pink). Lilly Scott, the singing, guitar-playing sandwich-maker. Michael Lynch, whose wife was in labor with their first child while he auditioned in hopes of pursuing his dream. Casey James, the hottie blues guitarist who partially stripped down for Kara and Posh Spice during the audition rounds. Waitress Didi Benami, who sang a Kara DioGuardi (sucking up perhaps? ). Single mom and hippie chick Crystal Bowersox of Elliston, Ohio, who brought the crowd to its feet while belting out “Natural Woman.” (O-H-I-O)
Out: Our friend Antonio “Skiiboski” Wheeler (but not without a fight), small-town country girl Vanessa Wolfe (at least she got to ride on an “aero-plane” to Hollywood), pant-splitter Cornelius Edwards, beat boxer Jay Stone, cancer survivor Justin Williams, Barney girl Erica Rhodes, annoying Jersey sisters Amanda and Bernadette Desimone, Paige DeChausse (who shined during auditions), the big sister to some special-needs children Maddy Curtis, the super-energetic Maegan Wright, nice Italian boy Amedeo Dirocco and unfortunately Columbus guy Bosa Mora, who Randy said we’ll see performing soon at the “Holiday Inn Columbus.”
At least Ohio girl Crystal should be a real contender in this competition.
And of course, there were many who got zero face time on TV, but you can check out photos and video of them at www.americanidol.com.
What do you think? Did anyone spot the next “American Idol”?
Permalink | Comments (12) | Post your comment | Categories: American Idol
Comments
By The Old Cold Warrior
February 10, 2010 8:14 PM | Link to this
I just don’t like this d**e, althought it may not be PC of me, you see.
By Tony
February 10, 2010 3:03 PM | Link to this
First I have heard Stern’s name mentioned, but would be better than Ellen. Simon’s XFactor will put Idol OOB in a short time.
By Rev. Cool
February 10, 2010 1:57 PM | Link to this
Show should be called “American Idiot”
By Jen
February 10, 2010 1:21 PM | Link to this
I hate Howard Stern, that would end the show right now. Ellen was OK, I actually liked her better than Paula. And yes, Kara can be a pain - but she’s big in the music industry.No one really knew much about her before AI because her body of work is in writing and recording.
By learnaboutit
February 10, 2010 1:17 PM | Link to this
Theodus T. - Kara is a BIG influence in the music biz as a very successful songwriter, singer, and talet scout. Better bone up on the backgrounds of her, Simon and Randy. Those 3 top Paula in every area of the biz…just like they top Ellen.
By rex
February 10, 2010 1:14 PM | Link to this
Ellen really wasn’t that bad, and she should “improve” as things progress. I will tell you this - if Howard Stern replaces Simon….I will NOT watch the show at all next season! Anyone else agree with that?
By Mr. Magoo
February 10, 2010 1:12 PM | Link to this
I thought Ellen did a nice job balancing humor with criticism. Garcia’s “Straight Up” could be a hit tomorrow. (Not on the level of, say, “Pants on the Ground,” but a hit nonetheless.)
By Theodus T
February 10, 2010 12:24 PM | Link to this
She belongs there like a rat being raised in a cheese factory. I thought this was a musical talent show? She is terrible,she has no idea about music or what it takes to be a star. She sucks! Get Snoop Dog, Cindy Lauper,Vanilla Ice,or how about tanya Harding,at least she could break someones leg to excite the audience. American Idol is boring and if simon leaves it’ll be another chapter in history. Get rid of Kara too she is worse than Ellen,get person in the recording or music industry,bring back Paula, she complimented Randy and Simon. The only worse pick would have been Rosie O’Donnell. Yuk!!
By Kelsey
February 10, 2010 12:14 PM | Link to this
I LOVE Ellen’s sense of humor! She did a great job judging last night. Oh and Andrew Garcia IS the next American Idol!
By Kelsey
February 10, 2010 12:11 PM | Link to this
I LOVE Ellen’s sense of humor! She did a great job judging last night. Oh and Andrew Garcia IS the next American Idol!
By Tony
February 10, 2010 8:26 AM | Link to this
As I expected, Ellen was annoying and offered little insight, rambling on about nonsense and none of it was funny at all. Crystal was the star of the show last night.
By Steve
February 10, 2010 7:25 AM | Link to this
Janell And Lilly are my favs so far. Kerrigan K99