The audition process continues on the East Coast with Washington D.C. and Charleston South Carolina. We’ve had some big talent come out of the Charleston auditions…like Heidi and Travis from two years ago. Let’s see if the city still has some talent on tap…Tice Diorio joins the judging table, and Clyde makes a comeback to the FOX43 blogging world!

I suppose I do. How did you talk me into this?

Good to see you, too, Clyde.

Sorry, where are my manners? Daphne, great to see you again. It’s been a while, love the hat. Very red.

You mean you HAD manners at some point?!

Ho-ho-ho. Sharp as ever, Julie. I think enough time has passed that I’m ready to come out of hiding and step back into a world that would have David Cook as an American Idol. I’m not over it, but I’m just kind of accepted the fact and am trying to move on with professional help.

About time you got professional help! But seriously, we invited my fellow FOX43 Idol Expert Clyde Collins to join us for a trip to Charleston, a place that holds a special place in his otherwise cold, black heart.

It's true. Charleston is one of my favorite places in the world. It’s a lovely city, and I’m happy to be joining the lovely ladies of the SYTYCD Blog in giving our thoughts on the try-outs. I have to be honest, though…I have NEVER watched this show, until tonight. I don’t know anything about it, so I’m going to have to figure it out as I go along. Not my kind of show, you know. But let’s give it a go.

We'll take it easy on you...THIS time.

I'm a quick study, don't worry.

Heh, always were. Well, starting out in Charleston is 18 year old Sheila Kaiser, who is putting school on hold for this dance opportunity. She has a wonderful personality, is having fun on the floor, and moves wonderfully. She has a lot going for her in many ways, including a ticket to Vegas. Hope her dad will be proud!

Sheila Kaiser went to audition without her dad’s permission, but she blew the judges away. She had an interesting contemporary style, and a great personality. I like this girl, and she’s going to Vegas so we’ll be seeing her again.

OOOOOOH, she's here against her dad’s wishes. What a rebel! A DANCE REBEL, ladies. Isn’t that wonderful?

You can't be a dancer AND a rebel?

Please, Daph...this isn't RENT, and RENT wasn't REAL. But, she certainly has a lot of energy…seems like she’s more Broadway-style dance than anything else. She makes sure to look up and smile and hits all the little “attitude” poses along the way. Ooh, bio-engineering? Smart, too – I like her more, now. Can’t dance forever, you know…good that she has a backup.

Been a while since someone called me "Daph."

Wow! As usual, we have completely different reactions to the same performance...

Just like old times, right? Have to admit...I do make things interesting, ha ha.

Yeah, you do. I may pick on you, I do love my Clyde.

Hard not to love someone this perfect!

Ok...break up the Idol Chatter love fest, over there. Some of us feel left out!

Now, Daphne...we go back a looooong way. Plenty for us to catch up on and leave Julie in the dark about, ha ha ha.

Nooooo way! You're crazy if you think I want to go into our history right now!

Wait a minute...a "history?" Oooooh, Daphne...you never told me about that!

And we're gonna' keep it that way for now, thank you very much!

See that? There some gossip even the great Julie Heart hasn't heard!

Oh, I'll get it out of you, don't worry!

ANYWAY...back to the show! Next up is a couple, Erin Mansour and John Tabakian. This couple right here is the reason Clyde loves Charleston so much. They were ridiculous! I always look forward to couple dances, but this was awful. They had no chemistry, no dance moves, and no tickets to Vegas.

PART of the reason I love Charleston, of course. It's a gorgeous place with a lovely undercurrent of UTTER INSANITY running just below the surface! Creepily thin-faced, Erin Mansour really didn’t do much for me. She looked like any drunk chick at a bar. And that chump dancing with her doing the Carlton really didn’t help. Yuck, she’s lousy. Too much time was spent on these losers…and I thought Idol dragged during the audition stage!

Well, I think you'll all agree that Idol wastes WAY more time parading the joke singers through to the judges! You know, Mansour she does NOT look 30! Hey, Clyde..do you think she’s one the Cougars for Cook? Ya know, the winner of American Idol, David Cook?

You cut me DEEP, Ms. Heart. You cut me very deep.

Haha, sorry I had to! Well, they were an awkward twosome, neither one had much talent...they kinda looked the part though, just couldn’t follow through with any real dancing.

And actually being able to dance might HELP, it turns out. If only someone had told them that before they tried out! Jeremiah Hughes takes the stage next, and already I can say, I don’t care whether he can dance or not, he’s nice to look at anyway. I have a feeling Julie might agree. As for the dancing, not the best I have ever seen, but he has some great moves. And looks like Jules and I will get to see more of him because he is straight through to Vegas.

I thought Jeremiah Hughes was DEF a cutie. He had some serious talent, and a great bod to go with it. I’m glad the judges put him straight through to Vegas…even with that iffy jump in his routine.

Okay, ladies...wipe your chins and mop the drool up. Hughes danced to some awful, David Cook-sounding song…and overdid it just like Cook. Big, overblown movements and no real spark to him. He lost his balance and touched the floor…if it was Ice Skating, he’d be a loser…I don’t like him at all, so he’ll probably win the season, based on what happened on American Idol, this season. Yerk. And what was up with his pirate clothes? Eew.

Oh, I saw a spark in him.

Cook or Hughes?

BOTH! Ha ha.

With you on Hughes, SO NOT WITH YOU on Cook!

Ha! Atta' girl, Daphne.

Even on THIS blog, I'm all alone! David Cook is AMAZING. Moving on!

Syiddah King and her mismatched socks were up next. She obviously doesn’t have any clue what she is doing. She doesn’t even call it dancing, and neither does anyone else. Oh my, Clyde, I totally understand your love for this city.

Syiddah King was...interesting? She could dance...kinda? There was no energy, and her moves were like a popper but not really trying? Weird. I do hate that she fought with the judges though.

Syiddah had…lovely socks. That’s about it. Otherwise, she’s just odd. Nothing special, just somebody with a bit of rhythm and no soul. She really got into it with Fake Simon, so…good to see that awful tradition of subpar people bickering with judges continues into the summer months!

Oh, yes it does. Speaking of that...Shamika Robinson looked like a stripper, and a bad one at that. And again with the attitude…I thought Charleston was supposed to have MANNERS? You’ve been there Clyde, what’s up?

Like I said...I'm reasonably certain the people down there are INSANE. Otherwise, quite pleasant. I'd compare a Southern rude person to a Yankee rude person any day, and I'm sure the Southern rude person would lose that battle. Then again, this is a collection of dancers…you know, dancers are even worse than singers, to me. Dancers often have that competitive thing, and they develop a chip on their shoulders where they think they’re awesome or whatever.

I guess any place has its share of crazies!

You're really asking for it, talking about dancers like that around me, Clyde!

Funny...the Daphne I used to know could take a little ribbing! And you know I'm a fan of YOURS. But Shamika Robinson…sucked. Unless you can win this show by wiggling on a floor…she was awful. I wasn’t alone in misunderstanding her “style,” because she became yet another jerk bickering with…Fake Simon.

Hey, how about those Hart brothers?

You mean twin brothers, Anthony and Antwain Hart? Anthony took the stage first. The guy has got the energy, but not the moves. He was sent packing, and his brother was up. Antwain has got the energy and the moves to impress. He impressed enough to get the judges to take another look at Anthony, even! The twins take the stage together, and Anthony proves he is just as good as Antwain. And the two are sent off to choreography together, and manage to impress there as well. The Hart brothers are off to Vegas along with 18 other dancers from day 1 in Charleston!

I’m surprised Anthony Hart didn’t dance with his brother, their moves together before his audition looked pretty cool. He had a lot of energy, but not a lot of moves. Antwain on the other hand really showed he could dance! He came right out with some serious moves. Seeing them together was great though! Anthony is so freakin’ lucky he has a twin, so now they’re both in for choreography!

You're quiet, Clyde. What did you think of them?

Those twin dudes are the kind of low-key excitement that makes this show must-see-if-you’ve-lost-the-remote, to me. Anthony Hart was kind of strange just hopping around by himself. I mean, they CLEARLY need each other to be engaging. Antwain Hart was even stranger! Definitely odd moves…what are we LOOKING FOR on this show, exactly? None of these people is going to revolutionize dance forever. What do they get for winning? I’ve never SEEN any of the winners, I don’t know who these people are or what they go on to do. What’s going ON, here?! Can one of you ladies please explain this show to me? I can’t believe we’re in the fourth season of this thing…you know, these twins were more interesting together because there was more happening, so you didn’t have to focus on just how goofy one of them looked dancing by himself.

Well...that's the THING. I'm not really sure what happens! They're declared America's Favorite Dancer...but...I mean, Wikipedia search last year's winner, and nothing really comes up other than she was on the show!

They tour the country, just like the Idols do. Great for a resume, and if you're trying to make it in the dance world, it's really good exposure.

I have a sister who’s a professional dancer, dance instructor, all that…I know the kind of people who compose dance routines in their spare time just for fun. Picture the Harts in their basement, coming up with wacky routines to the Hip Hop hits of the day…and shudder until you pass out.

Clyde! They weren't THAT bad! You know, you do bring up a good point, though. I think people just really like watching the show...it's not as much about the big winner or getting to the finale as American Idol or Survivor or whatev. Just kind of...fun to watch people coming up with cool dances!

I'll buy that, good enough for me. Not saying I get it, mind you. But, yeah, a lot of people got through on Day One, and all seemed UNBEARABLE, based on what they showed in the “We’re Going to Vegas!” montage. I think I’m going to have to leave you after we leave Charleston, girls.

Hm...so, you're still leaving things early because you can't commit, Clyde?

Wha -- um...

WOAH! YOU TWO WERE A COUPLE, WEREN'T YOU?!

I'm going to have to take a page out of Daphne's book and say we drop the issue and move on to Day Two, actually!

Ha ha ha...what was that about not being able to "take a little ribbing" anymore, Clyde?

Aww, Clyde! You're actually BLUSHING!

Okay, OKAY. Fair enough, she got me back. BACK TO THE SHOW!

Fine, you big baby! Day 2 in Charleston begins with Abigail Thurman. She looks like she is doing Jazzercise not dancing. But at least she can handle the criticism. She is really an awesome person, it is really ashame she can’t dance, because people would love her. If only everyone was like her, I think Nigel and Mary would be happier at these auditions.

Abigail Thurman was an unlikely popper, and Nigel let her know it before she hardly got started. I really liked her as a person, but she didn’t really have any talent for dance...at least she knows it!

Abigail Thurman…you know, until this show, I've never encountered an Abby that I’ve been able to stand. And this one was just...such a HONKY! Low-energy, no sex appeal…yeah, glad they stopped her early in disgust. She did handle the criticism well, though…no big, angry blow-up. I like her more all the time! Especially because I never have to see her dance, again! As Fake Simon put it, she’s just a **** dancer! I loved this segment!

BJ Harris is on deck next. And WOW! He looks like a rag doll being tossed about at some points, or a puppet on strings. He is quite entertaining. Some of his moves reminded me of Robert Muraine from LA auditions, and since we loved him so much, I guess there is a lot of love for BJ as well. He’s onto choreography.

BJ Harris better be a good dancer having his school pay for him to come out to audition. Wow, he looked like he was made out of rubber with those legs! I can’t wait to see if he can get through choreography.

What’s Fake Simon doing in that Freddy Kruger stripe shirt? Eew. As for Harris...too many piercings, and his hat’s horrible...but, I give him points for going with a Kanye song! And he certainly has some unique moves…

Courtney Gallano hits the floor next. Beautiful girl, beautiful dancer. She showed great form, and got a ticket to Vegas.

Italian parents…that’s an edge! Courtney Galiano has that whole hot, skimpily-dressed, ballet-ish thing going. Good for her. At least she’s attractive, that kept me interested during her dance. She really wanted to go to Vegas, and she dressed for the job she wanted.

I think Courtney Galiano is my favorite dancer we’ve seen so far! She’s gorgeous, and a gorgeous dancer. Her moves are soft and flowing and she’s great to watch, she makes dancing look easy. She went straight to Vegas.

Oh no. We’ve got a Looney....Jason Looney. If you don’t get why Clyde was brought kicking and screaming to blog with us, here's the answer! This guy wants to be a transvestite, but he isn’t doing a good job at it. He is also not doing a good job at the dancing. But I do love when Mary lays into people.

Daphne, you don't get me at ALL, do you? Jason Looney was clearly a joke, starting with choosing a Paula Abdul song, ha ha! We’ll see him/her on Idol next season, too, I’m sure. Fake Simon and Overbite-Girl were funny tearing him apart, though. His “shocked” facial expression was a complete put-on. And the more they pointed out that he’s making fun of all the “serious” contestants trying out, the more I liked Jason Looney! Good for him/her, I’m glad someone had the guts to show up and make such a statement.

True, you WERE a Sanjaya fan...

Clyde always goes for the gamebreakers, anything anarchistic...I got to know that VERY well working with him on Idol Chatter!

Yeah, I guess I'd forgotten what a DANCE REBEL you are, Clyde! Ha ha.

Oh, it's true. The BIGGEST, DANCINGEST REBEL of them all.

You'll have to show me some moves sometimes, Mr. "Dance Rebel" Collins! But getting back to Jason “Betty” Looney…this guy WAS looney! He reminds me of the guy from Silence of the Lambs...creepy! I’m so glad Tyce and Mary gave it to him, he/she was a wackjob. Either he was trying to just get on tv and be weird or he ACTUALLY thought he could dance and he’s delusional.

The return of Claire Calloway, who was hurt during season two and giving it another go. She isn’t really doing much to impress, merely prancing about the stage. But the judges know that she has more to offer and give her a shot at the choreography round. She managed to impress there because she got through to Vegas.

In reference to the montage they ran before her segment...I’m finally over “Thriller,” I think. Enough. Those people are all idiots.

What about Claire?


Okay, okay, Claire Callaway has a hot body, considering she’s a mom. She’s got that sexy thing down. Was she particularly amazing? I don’t think she’s the best thing ever. She’s competent, talented…a lot of charm, great story…she’s through on potential. Dunno’ if she’ll win the whole show, but maybe she’ll make it to the competition and leave early on enough that her daughter doesn’t suffer from "My Mom Wants to Be a Star and Won’t Give Up Her Old Dreams Even Though I Should Be the Most Important Thing to Her" Syndrome.

I remember Claire Callaway from season two, I was really rooting for her to be ok, and I missed her when she didn’t come back season three. I cannot believe she’s lost all the weight so quickly from her pregnancy though, wow! Coming back she’s not as impressive as she was before, I’m a little disappointed. She just fell apart in front of the judges...I really hope she can prove herself as the season goes on!

And BJ, the rag doll, did NOT make it that far! He won't be joining the other 17 dancers in Vegas!

Yeah, it's true. During choreography BJ was cut, he’s great IN HIS STYLE, but he couldn’t handle other kinds. Claire gets another chance at Vegas along with 17 other dancers.

BJ...out! It was that hat, I think. I wish they’d have shown more of the skimpily-dressed dancers put through from the montage…but, whatever. We’re headed to D.C., and I think Clyde’s going to hit the road. It’s been fun, ladies. Maybe I’ll return as a guest panelist again when the real competition starts up, just because I can’t go more than a few hours without criticizing something!

THAT is true!

No shortage of people to tear apart on this show…and I won’t even have the impediment of actually LIKING any of them! Enjoy D.C. and best of luck to the two of you starting out this new blogging venture. I’m sure you’ll do fine, and it really was nice seeing the two of you, again.

It's been too long, Clyde. And no going back on that...we better see you in here again, soon!

Don't worry, I can't stay out of the spotlight for long.

True! But...it's time to leave Clyde’s future hometown behind, and move a bit closer to his current home - we're in Washington DC!

We pick up Dan Karaty to judge, too. He's no Clyde, but he'll have to do!

Take care, ladies.

First up in the nation’s capital is Megan Campbell. I wouldn’t say she is the best we’ve seen, but she does have a lot of talent, and the judges seem to agree because she is off to Sin City.

Megan really committed to her dance, she really gave it her all. First up in D.C. is the first one they put straight through to Vegas!

“Dancing D”, Derrick Bradley returns. He almost killed himself last year at New York auditions. After Nigel checked to make sure oxygen was on standby, Dancing D was off with some of the classics. He did the dice throw, he went fishing, he did what appeared to be the Ed Grimley dance, he chopped down a tree, played golf, and played charades. But at no time did he do any actual dancing. At least he didn’t need the oxygen tank this year.

Oh GOD...Derrick Bradley is back! This guy is so full of cheese. He’s a big goofball when he’s up on stage, and then he’s trying to make excuses to the judges. He sucked last year, and he sucked this year too…NEXT!

Next is the emotional story of Markus Shields, who was dancing in memory of his late mother. I think he did his mother proud. He has some very smooth moves, very much like Usher.

I really liked this Markus. He really danced with emotion for his mom, and Mary even got a little emotional after hearing his story. Nigel told him he could go through to choreography, so he could smile...and I think he’ll be able to handle it!

Onto another Markus, Markus Smith and partner Deonna Ball, who gave us a taste of DC Swing! They were lots of fun. I’ve always enjoyed swing, even took some classes with Cly....er...a FRIEND of mine many years ago! This has a bit more to it. It wasn’t jammed packed with all the big moves you expect from swing, but it had the energy and the entertainment. Markus and Deonna were sent to choreography. But they didn’t have what it took there and were sent home though.

I guess "D.C. Swing” is a form of the Lindy Hop. They had some really fun original moves, but I guess the two of them couldn’t cut it!

But Markus Shields continues to make his momma proud, and gets handed a rare ticket to Vegas. Only 9 others received that honor on day 1 in DC. Let's hope Day 2 has more talent to offer.

Markus really did great with choreography...I'm glad he got his ticket!

Brandon Bryant, who tried out in season 1 is back, now that he is finally 18 and actually old enough for the competition. I am glad to see he made it back. He has amazing form, and wonderful potential to be the best in the competition this year. A beautiful dancer with a great personality. It’s straight to Vegas for this talented guy. Day 2 starts off with a bang.

Brandon was 15 when he first tried out...but this try-out was def FOR REAL! He’s so muscular, and he looks so serious when he dances, intense! He’s been dancing for 10 years and it shows! He’s going to be an exciting dancer on the show this year, he’s going far - I’m calling it.

Revenge of the Nerd? Perhaps. I love that they did use the song from Revenge of the Nerds in the background for the intro to Phucdat Ngyuen. Phucdat or the “Atomic Goofball” is an interesting guy. At first I wasn’t sure about him, but then he broke out the break dancing, and he wowed. He was sent off to choreography.


I liked him! He was definitely interesting. Not sure he’ll be able to handle the choreography, but I’d like to see him try. And Mariya Priymak, the ribbon dancer, was hard to take seriously.

Anthony Bryant - hmm, a lot of BRYANTS, tonight - a “too feminine male dancer” who auditioned in season one, is back and hoping to impress Nigel with his “more masculine” routine. He has immense talent, but he is missing that spark. The judges are happier with him then they were the first year. So they send him to choreography...but he doesn’t impress there. It’s a no for him again this year!

Anthony Bryant just graduated Julliard, but, like you said...he didn't have emotion until he started talking to the judges. Totally missing that spark. Unlike you and Clyde!

AHEM! Phucdat, our favorite nerd, didn’t make it either. But 9 more make it through on day 2 in DC, including a guy who forgot you should open the door before trying to go through it.

If there's a lesson anyone should've learned from American Idol Season 6, it's DON'T SCREW UP USING A DOOR! I’m not surprised Phucdat couldn’t cut it in choreography, but I’m really surprised Anthony wasn’t able to make it through, he was great. He SO doesn't handle rejection well…what a drama queen!

I am ready to hit Vegas and see what these dancers have for us. But first we still have one more city to audition in, and that is Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I am hoping the “Cheeseheads” in “Brew City” have a lot of talent to show us!

9 more people are heading to Vegas from day two in D.C. making it a total of 19. I can't wait to hit the midwest for the final auditions, next week! Special thanks to our friend...well, maybe MORE THAN friend for Daphne...Clyde Collins!


Ha ha. I have a LOT to catch you up on, Julie. Thanks for stopping in, Clyde...and see you next week, people.

Posted by Matt Bushey at 10:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: Charleston, Clyde Collins, D.C., dance, Daphne Bellevue, Julie Heart, So You Think You Can Dance, SYTYCD

So You Think You Can Dance is back for its second night of auditions in Dallas Texas, and Salt Lake City Utah. Salt Lake is up first, and i think some of us know that Utah is packed with talent, at least of the singing kind. Let's see about the dancing kind...

Yeah, i'm excited to see what kind of dancers we're gonna see from Utah...that's where Aarchie's from

Archie, the person who really should have won AI.

yeah yeah let's not get started

Where's Clyde when I need him?

so anyways...i'm glad Mandy Moore is on the judging pannel, i loved the table routine last year
that sounded slightly dirty...

Me too...that was AMAZING! One of my favorties from last year. Not so dirty if you know what we're talking about.

Chelsie Hightower is the first one out of the gate

She looks great! Let's see how she dances.
FANTASTIC!

she's so cute, i know Artie would love her

I think a lot of guys would. Even Mandy Moore thinks she's hot.

she really has the "it" factor, and you could tell she had fun dancing...oh and great legs!

She doesn't just look good, she moves great!

no surprise she's straight through to vegas

Brett Banford is up next.

he's really an inspiration, coming on this show to prove people with down syndrome can still live normal lives

He's really got a lot of energy, but not great on the technique part.
He's cute though.

yeah, Nigel has it right-he's a good mover, but a good dancer he is better than a lot of the people we've seen on the show...like "Sex"

Agreed on that one. I liked him...just not what the competition needs.

Michael Moore looks like an interesting guy, i wonder how he'll do dancing...

I think Nigel just used the perfect word for him, "Frantic"
He was just a little out of control

yeah, he's dancing...kind of, but we've see break dancers a lot better organized in their moves

I think maybe he should have given the Native American dancing a try.

yeah, well at least he knows he didn't do a great job...i hate when they argue

Yeah, but if he knew, why did he come out? really?

well he can do some moves, just not great at putting them together

He just needs to calm down and then give it a try.

Speaking of something you shouldn't try, Robert Taylor had a good move there, didn't he?

Yikes! that looked like it hurt!

Nice face plant kid. Glad he's alright though.

Cat Deely almost did too!

Gev Manoukian had some cool moves on ice, let's see what he can do on the floor

Just from his intro I am excited to see him already.

hmmm he's like a contemporary popper?

you can definitely see his many styles in his audition here. very nice.

i like this guy, he's interesting
great arm strength to do those moves

He is wonderful...I am a little surprised he didn't go straight through to Vegas, but we’ll see him again later.
Now is time for Lindsey Judkins
She's cute, maybe a little cheesy, but she has some nice moves.

yeah, i def agree with the cheesy, but her timing seems a bit off when she's dancing...she's got the moves, there's just something a little off

She looks a bit like an old school majorette.

yeah i guess i could see that...i'm surprised she got a ticket straight through, i didn't think she was THAT good

I agree.

no wonder we're seeing so many kids...i forgot we're in Utah...the morman breeding capitol of the world

No Utah bashing here.
Remember Archie!

i'm not bashing, i'm just saying these people start young...and have a lot of young!
well Nicole Downer looks like she's gonna have a down day...i don't think she can dance

I think she need to stick to child rearing.

she does look like someone's mom trying to dance

She is someone's mom trying to dance

oh my, she took one two many dance classes at church and now thinks she can really dance

She did make me laugh, and not in a "I'm laughing at her" way. She was fun. Just not good.

yeah, she was fun...but i was laughing at her

Julie Heart getting a little heartless there. But it's okay, we need to make up for the lack of Clyde.

On to the daughter of High School Musical's Choreographer, Kelli Baker. She has a lot to live up to here.

well she certainly has control

One word "lovely"

she def lived up to her mom, i'm impressed

Me too, she was a joy to watch. absolutely beautiful. Mom should be proud.

i'm betting she goes FAR in the competition, she's really good, but modest...as the daughter of a choreographer you know she's going to be able to pick up all the different kinds of moves she's gonna need to learn

Back to Gev in Choreography!

they tried to trick him, saying he needed another year to practice, but he was in!

Hallelujah! I'm a fan of Gev's already and I am glad to see him through.

Naomie Christensen...does not look like she can dance
she doesn't even move well

Warrior Princess, maybe....definitely not Dancing Queen.

haha what was that

I hope she acts better than dances.
OH EXCUSES!

somehow i doubt it

I hate when people can't dance and they make up excuses for it. Let her have it Mary.

wow, Mary was mean, i'm surprised

I hear her frustrations though.

And it looks like Xena, I mean Naomie started a trend of bad dancers. Let's hope that Ryann Race,the strip club DJ, has some better moves.

he's so tall and lanky...it's a little weird to watch him move around

I think the lankiness helps him with some of those flowing moves though.
He was interesting. I kinda liked him. Not love though.

yeah, i do think he can move, but i'm not impressed

I don't see him doing well in the choreography round though

yeah me neither

next up is Matt Dorame, he has an interesting look to him, i'm intrigued
and it looks like he's got the moves to back it up, great dancer

There was something odd about him though. Perhaps it was that goofy smile he had on his face.
But not a bad dancer

yeah, and when he did the little gig move during a more serious routine it seemed a little out of place...but as long as he loses the shorts he's off to vegas

Next up we have two friends trying out, but Kortney Pearson is the first one up.

she looks like she's going to the mall wearing jeans and a scarf

Not to sound like Randy Jackson, but she was just okay for me.

yeah, i agree, a bit lackluster

She has potential, but not sure now is her time, but she is getting a chance at choreography.

Michelle Stringham looks more like a dancer

Most definitely has more talent.

yeah, i wonder what will happen if they choose one, and the other has to go home

Get over and give the other one support.

She into choreography too. Now it is time to see who makes it through

looks like Michelle gets the golden ticket

Kortney Pearson is also through.




DJ Ryann Race didn't seem to do so well with the choreography...but he's in to vegas??

That one was a shock, I didn't expect it.

Salt Lake City brought 42 dancers to Vegas

Now it is time for Dallas! I'm excited to see what Texas has got for us.

well ya know they do everything bigger in Texas

Brian Davidson starts things off in the Lone Star State.

does he...does he really?

And he is a great "Corner of a Club" dancer.

because i think he was just kind of wiggling around

He doesn't even want to be there.

he just wanted to be on tv, he's dumb, old and frumpy

Let's not talk about him anymore.




Chad Agnor has a great backstory, he's a fighter in more ways than one.
He pulled a hamstring during practice, but still wants to show his stuff...i have a feeling this could be bad though

He better "wow" the judges like he said he would, or things may be very over for him.

He's not bad, but I am not being "wowed" like he wanted.

yeah, i'm impressed he can move...but i don't think he impressed me with his dancing

and Country line dancing really isn't my thing.
He should have found a partner and tried Ballroom dancing.

yeah, country dancing is greatly improved with a partner
oh god we have a barbie girl next

Oh my. Paige Jones, the Miss Texas wannabe, the Rhinestone Cowgirl, takes the stage.
And so far she is the best Texas has for us.

yeah, but that's not saying much

She is a Pageant girl.

she didn't seem to really have it, she just knows how to fake it

Again, she is a Pageant girl.






well lets see if she can do choreography and act a bit more human…
I think Joshua Allen is the best we've seen from Texas now

He's a popper. He's not the best one we've seen this season, but the best of the night so far.

i love his attitude though, and wow did he get some height on that jump

He's got some love from the judges, and sent to Choreography.

No tickets straight to Vegas yet, let's see if Cassidy Corder has got what it takes.

well...she had some fun booty shakes, but she didn't really tie her moves together

but Jules, she got nervous.
That explains everything

Nigel was way harsh saying she was the worst though

She needs to go try out for a Britney Spears video. Leave the real dancing to talented people. She was pretty bad.

It looks like we aren't getting any tickets to Vegas anytime soon




John Dix and Arielle Coker are our first dancing couple

Finally! Once again though, the girl has more talent

they had a lot of lifts, but he seems like he's just there to move her around and isn't doing much else

Looks like Arielle is Straight through to Vegas, but Dear John goes off to Choreography.
Best call the judges made all night

they're a really cute couple, and i'm glad that John was genuinely happy that she went to vegas
i don't think the show is as important to him as it is to her, but he was def a good partner for her




Now the good Dancers are showing up. About time Dallas.

i wish we could have seen some more of the good ones...and not so much of the sucko

Maybe Steven Arner will deliver a great performance for us....or maybe not.

he had attitude, but zero energy

Yeah. He kinda bored me.
Oh this guy is not handling the news that he can't dance well.

now his attitude is REALLY coming out, he's giving it to the judges

The judges are giving it back too.
Get him Mary!

whoa...did he just call her a what?!

Mary is giving him a lesson in manners

well he was a jerk and a half, i don't even wanna talk about that cabbage patch hair dance wanabee...let's move on to choreography

Well, our Dear John didn't make it through. I guess Arielle will have to dance without him from now on.




I'm surprised a little disappointed Barbie girl Paige made it though

Yea Rhinestone Cowgirl!
Joshua Allen also is through to Vegas

i'm SO glad Joshua made it though, he was great

I enjoyed him as well. Either he or Arielle would be my favorite from Dallas

38 dancers made it though from Dallas, next week we're headed to Washington D.C. and Clyde's favorite place Charleston South Carolina...it looks weird and wonderful

I don't know about you, but I can't wait. Maybe we can get Clyde to join us for a look at Charleston.

Posted by Matt Bushey at 8:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: dance, Daphne Bellevue, Julie Heart, So You Think You Can Dance, SYTYCD, Texas, Utah

Martin Sheen became "fanatic" when his son Charlie was using drugs.

"When a life is at stake and it's your child, you become fearless in a lot of ways. I mean, you just become fanatic," the 67-year-old actor says in the July/August issue of AARP The Magazine. "Nothing ever gets done unless it's done by a fanatic."

Sheen, who portrayed fictional President Josiah Bartlet on NBC's "The West Wing," tells the magazine how he intervened to save his actor-son.

"The only way I got to Charlie, frankly, was because he'd skipped out of the hospital. I had to pay the bill," Sheen says. "In paying the bill, I got to see why he was in there. He'd consumed an illegal substance; he was on probation. ... This was a criminal matter. And so that was the wedge; that was the leverage I had. That is what I took to the court; that's what I took to the sheriff. It was the only way I got him."

The veteran TV and film star, who battled alcoholism himself, also turned to Alcoholics Anonymous to help his son.

"I got sober through Catholicism, through my faith," Sheen tells the magazine. "I only got involved with AA when I was trying desperately to find a way to help Charlie, because I didn't have any skills."

Sheen also talked about his career and politics, saying he doesn't plan to run for public office.

"I'm not qualified," he says. "It's crossed my ego. I feel like a public servant. I feel like a responsible citizen. But I couldn't do it professionally. I don't have the temperament."

Story Source

Posted by Matt Bushey at 11:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
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FIERY chef Gordon Ramsay is planning to climb the world's highest mountain.

The TV star has been invited to scale Mount Everest next May.

Ramsay plans to take time out from his culinary empire to attempt the 29,029ft ascent of the Himalayan peak on the border between China and Nepal.

He said: "I have been approached to attempt to climb Everest next year, which would be phenomenal.

"It's a lifelong ambition. Business commitments permitting, and with my family's approval, I'd like to do it.

"I have always kept in shape, so that's not a problem.

"These kind of offers only come along rarely and I know that, as you get older, the chance to stretch yourself physically becomes less."

Almost 2500 people have climbed Everest and 210 have died on the mountain.

Ramsay is a fitness fanatic who has run the London marathon several times.

The dad-of-four has recently stepped up his training schedule to compete in a tough Iron Man triathlon in Hawaii on November 8, his 42nd birthday.

He said his wife Tana gives him the motivation to stay in shape, as well as his own dislike of fat chefs.

Speaking from his restaurant in Dubai, Ramsay said: "Ten years ago, I was a fat chef. I don't think it's a good advert for my restaurant."

Ramsay, who was born in Johnstone, Renfrewshire, said that no matter where he is in the world, he goes for runs with a rucksack full of potatoes strapped to his back.

The former footballer, who was once on Rangers' books, plans to open a s5million restaurant in the London West Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles.

He has already earned 12 Michelin stars and is one of only three UK chefs with a restaurant which has been awarded three ichelin stars.

Despite racking up a $67million fortune and running a successful global empire, scaling Everest could be Ramsay's toughest challenge yet.

The Chinese and Nepalese governments strictly control ascents on Everest, with permits costing up to $15,000.

Most climbs are led by professionals with full-time sherpas who charge more than $40,000 for their services.

Nepalese climber Min Bahadur Sherchan, 76, yesterday became the oldest person to scale Everest.

Click here for the source

Posted by Matt Bushey at 11:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
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Season 4 of So You Think You Can Dance started off with some crazy competition from the popping, locking, bboying, and of course contemporary and couples. Last year Sabra became the first girl to win the competition, and she was up against some very talented fellas. Now that Idol is over Daphne Bellevue is joining me to review what's going on in the dancing world. We'll be here each week with critiques and compliments for the dancers and periodically we'll be joined by a guest judge to throw in their own feedback. So unfortunately you haven't seen the last of Clyde and Artie. Well without further ado...here's Daphne.

So You Think You Can Dance is finally back, and just in time too! I couldn't handle another minute of Idol. I felt Clyde and Artie's pain this season, that is for sure. And as a lifelong dancer, So You Think You Can Dance is so much more entertaining to me than any old David infested singing competition. We start off this season with auditions on the west side, in LA.

Day 1 in LA
Devin Oshiro- Barracuda by Heart starts to play and she just stands there. Apparently it wasn't her song. Can I first say, if they start to play the wrong music, the right thing to do is let them know, don't just stand there. Anyway. At first I wasn't impressed. She was doing this crazy head banging movement, and all I could think is "why is that so special? Anyone can do that." But then she threw in some amazing, graceful moves. Her technique was really nice once she stopped throwing her head about. I think she'll turn out to be a great dancer. She's through to Vegas.

Jonathan Anzalone is the crazy Italian guy…hot but crazy, I can’t believe he got naked. First impression I thought he was cute…but then he creeped me out a bit. He got a interesting reaction from Mia as well with his over sexuality. His dancing was playful and entertaining, but it wasn’t skillful. In the end his arrogance was too much and his dancing not enough.

This guy was like a slightly cuter, but far more cocky version of Fez from That 70's Show. He claims to be a professional dancer from Italy, and I am pretty sure he meant "stripper". At points during his audition it looked like he was doing a bad version of Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation video. But the judges wanted to give him another chance, so they sent him to the choreography round. But he obviously didn't impress there, cause he was out.

I think this is the one time I will openly admit I hate Sex, I did not miss Sex from last year, and I never want to see Sex again. David “Sex” Soller is a glutton for punishment. I do not understand these people that stand in line to humiliate themselves on television. The Ricky Martin thing was classic though. NO

Stephen "Twitch" Boss- I love this guy. LOVE HIM. He is awesome. The way his body pops and moves, you just have to know why he is called "Twitch". I hope this is the year he makes it through. No Hawks to ruin his chances this time. He's on to Vegas!

Phillip Chbeeb- I don’t even know how to describe this guy. My jaw was just dropped watching him move. His arms were moving like whoa. He’s so original in his movement, I just really hope he can do the other kinds of dancing. IN

William Wingfield- He did what I would call an "Interpretative dance". This guy is talented, but not really my cup of tea. I am excited to see him in Vegas though, I'd like to see more of what he can do.

Rijiy Ames did his routine in a pair of tighty whities because he “wanted a clean slate”…well at least he didn’t show up with skip marks. He was very serious about his nearly nakedness which was a lil weird. It was hard to even watch his dancing when you’re trying not to get a glimpse of his manhood. NO

Day 2 in LA
Erika Gee- I really like her. She shows great diversity in her dance. She is graceful, she is talented, she is cute. I think she'll do well in this competition. I think she'll be able to handle just about any style of dance they throw at her. Vegas for Erika.

Leonidas Proskurov and Aliona Vetrenko were a hot little couple with some serious talent. They went straight through to Vegas.

"Gold Inferno" - A Jump Style dancer with a mask. He looks like he is trying to play Dance Dance Revolution without the actual game. I am not really digging that. He needs to stick to the arcades, and stay out of the dance studios. It's a no go for Inferno.

So the power ranger reject “Gold Inferno” came back for another shot this year with his jump work. He certainly had a few new moves this year, but I don’t think he was impressing anyone. NO

Ricky Sun & Asuka Kondoh- Another cute little couple. Asuka has got a bit more talent than her partner, Ricky, but I think both have enough talent to go far in the competition. Off to Vegas.

Kherington Payne has personality in spades, she really puts on a show. I was surprised she did a contemporary dance style after hearing her soccer skills and aggressiveness. But since we saw her back story you knew she was either going to be horrible or great…and she was great so straight through to Vegas.

Robert Muraine - Oh-My-GOSH! This guy is INCREDIBLE! His routine was very robotic. Some moves he did I didn't think were humanly possible. And to top off this amazing routine that I couldn't bear to look away from, he is amusing, and makes you laugh. He has got a talent that needs to be put to good use. My only concern is that popping is all he has ever done. He has no formal training. Is he going to be able to handle the other styles that are thrown at him? I hope his career is just starting, regardless of what happens in Vegas. This guy is just amazing. He is the dancer of the night for me.

Robert Muraine is a popping contortionist mime? He was ridiculous to watch, he didn’t even look human. I don’t know if you could call what he was doing dancing, but he needs to be on TV. He made a bargin with Nigel to show him a few more moves for a ticket straight though and it paid off. Nigel even tried to give him a few moves on his way to pick it up.

30 Dancers made it through to Vegas from LA.

I am excited for next week when we move on to Salt Lake City, and Dallas. We are sure to have more amazing, talented dancer to watch there.

Posted by Matt Bushey at 3:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: dance, Daphne Bellevue, Julie Heart, So You Think You Can Dance, SYTYCD

In celebration of tonight's premiere of So You Think You Can Dance, here's a preview!

Posted by Joe at 3:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: Preview, So You Think You Can Dance

Season 7 comes to a screeching halt - and a new American Idol is crowned!

We're abandoning the traditional style of the Results Column, because...well...it's over.

Oh, yes it is! And, just incase you haven't heard...

My boy David Cook is THE NEW AMERICAN IDOL!

It's true. Didn't think it would...or even COULD...happen. But, David Cook won Season 7, last night...in what I consider kind of a shocker.

Yo, it's a HUGE shocker! Archie TOTALLY won the night on Tuesday, so...didn't see it coming!

Maybe you guys should've listened to the Queen of American Idol a bit better all season! Ha ha.

I'm just missing something, clearly. I never liked him. I STILL don't like him. I mean, what HAPPENED? Unless...you don't think...

Dude, I doubt Chris Daughtry is an evil overlord running a shadowy cult devoted to the distruction of Rock. I like the cartoon, though. But, seriously...even you have to be a LITTLE surprised, Julie!

Cute cartoon, Clyde. But, no. Cook did this all on his own! I was all ready for the huge, predictable let down that would have been David Archuleta taking home the title, but gasp…what did Seacrest say?! Could it be?! Is it he? Yes it’s true! David Cook wins season seven of American Idol! I don’t know if it was the producers or the judges messing with us, but after last night I had all but given up hope that my boy Cook could win it all. He proved you all wrong and won the night!

Right, I was there. And you've earned gloating rights, of course...


Ok...in all seriousness, I don’t think Cook or Archuleta expected this to happen. I must not have been the only one voting like crazy for Cook after the show ended last night. I just couldn’t bear to see that Disney kid beat out the Rocker. What’s that you say Clyde? The Rocker can’t win? Well he did!!

I maintain that David Cook is NOT a real "Rocker." He's a sappy, faux-rock gorilla with bad hair. But, it's true...I was proven wrong. All throughout Idol history, I've been extremely accurate, but I have to admit -- this season had me baffled. I just don't get it! How did it all come to this?!

Did you vote, Clyde?

No, and I've never voted. Not once, in the history of the show. I try not to get caught up in the emotion of the season, to cover it objectively...but, this season, blogging it and studying it so intimately, discussing it with you two every week, I just couldn't get a grip on what was really happening. I'm still at a loss - what happened?!

Julie voted. I bet a LOT of Julies voted.

Did YOU vote, Funk?

Dogg, I didn't even watch.

Well, unless the two of us could've - somehow - voted 12 million times, last night...I'd say it really didn't make much of a difference.

Nah. Y'know, I was so sure Archie was gonna' win, coming outta' the finale...I don't know, just didn't think I needed to sit through all two hours of it last night. Not when they have TEN SECONDS worth of information to give us!

I only watched the second hour, actually. I turned it on at EXACTLY the moment Brooke White took the stage with Graham Nash - so, good timing for me. But, Artie...I don't blame you.

Yeah. By the time the Top 12 was doing their last performance, I was ready to quit. This finale took FOREVER! Please, Idol, no more 2 hour shows! One hour is more than enough! There were def several performances you could have cut out, last night. Keep in mind, this was the point in the show when I was getting bitter thinking that Archie was about to win. So, I wasn't in the mood for that kind of thing.

I hate the group numbers. I completely tuned-out during that bit, chatting with the others in the room, watching with me. But I imagine you might have been a bit MORE in the mood for it had you not just sat through nearly 2 hours of that feel-good, goofy, time-killing filler.

Exactly! You can only take SO MUCH of that!

The Idol finale is definitely an endurance test...but, yeah, when I dug up the news that David Cook had won...

Tell us, Artie. What was that magic moment like?

Yes, please. Take us inside the mind of Artie Funk, having heard the dreadful, sickening news?

I was like, "REALLY?!" I thought somebody was joking with me, at first. I had to question my usually-trusted informant's credibility. Total shock, dude!

I watched it...and I smiled and said, "Nooooo way." I was literally stunned. Just had to laugh. What a complete and total theft Cook had pulled off. Even after Simon's PATHETIC little plea for forgiveness from Cook before the winner was announced, I had no clue what was coming! I'm not going back on my word - David Cook is completely undeserving of joining the list of American Idols, and I do not understand his popularity at ALL. Julie, you're in love with him. Shed some light on it, please.

You guys probably just HATE him too much to realize that he really DOES have a great voice, and, like I've said before, David Cook is the better singer/performer and he deserved to win! He will sell more albums than Archie ever could, and he's going to have a much longer career than that Archie ever could. He knows who he is and the music he wants to put out in the world. Archie was his dad's puppet, maybe in a few years he'll cut the strings and make it on his own...but I'm betting he'll just get a new puppetmaster.

But, come on. He's no Carrie Underwood. He's no Kelly, no Ruben. He's not even a Fantasia! He MIGHT, on a GOOD night, be able to show up Taylor Hicks. And, well, Jordin Sparks is still kind of a work in progress, so...he could probably take her out. But, really, I don't think he's got such a great voice. I don't LIKE that we know exactly what his album's going to sound like, or that he makes Cougars happy. I'm hardly David Archuleta's biggest fan, but...can't we agree that he fell into that Melinda Doolittle trap, being the best singer but the least personable? He has a better voice and a wider range than Cook...he was just too goony to be taken seriously!

That kid was a FREAK, dogg. And, Julie... I heartily disagree with you. I don't think ol' Cookie will outsell Archie. I think the future holds a classic Season 2 and/or Doolittle Trap scenario, where the well-liked personality won over the more talented vocalist. I guess the "Cougars for Cook" ate up all the "Grannies for Goo-Goo Face" as well as the "Tweens for Twitchy" in the texting war. Who knows, though. Once the awkward, single-vocal chorded wonder gets over his gooniness, and outta the evil clutches of his Stage Dad from Hades, he might be able to take on the other big runners-up, like Clay or Daughtry in sales figures.

Yeah, he was definitely "too goony to be taken seriously," Clyde. I'll give you that! I think people must have had some SERIOUS Daughtry Guilt, or maybe we just really underestimated how hateable Archuleta is…I know I’ve thoroughly disliked him on several occasions. Now I almost feel bad for the kid…I certainly wouldn’t want to deal with his dad after letting go of the biggest reality competition on TV.

Oh, that kid's doomed. David Archuleta is going to be beaten with a stick day and night until he turns 18, and it's all your fault, Julie!

Clyde! There's nothing funny about child abuse.

You have to admit, there's something a LITTLE funny about Archie Abuse...you know, at least the imaginary kind.

Maybe. Just a little.

Heh heh. Yeah...it's pretty funny. That poor kid had so much pressure on him, and you just KNOW he had to be crushed.

But, you know what? I think we're missing the important thing, here. Clyde, you said you'd wear one of my dresses if David Cook won American Idol, this season! Well...it just so happens...that I brought along a LOVELY, pink number for you.

Awww, yeah! Put it on, Clyde!

Fine, fine. I'm a good sport. Let's get on with it...

I LOVE IT! Ha ha ha. Clyde, you look so GOOD in pink! You should wear things with color more often!

Dude, it's Amanda Overmyer! Right here, in the FOX43 Idol Expert office!

Amanda Overmyer? Don't you think that's a LITTLE harsh, Artie? I have to look better than THAT!

By the way, I did not miss hearing Amanda Overmyer at all...I could have lived a very happy life having never heard from her again, Idol! Oh...and I can’t believe they brought back Renaldo for the finale, that was ridiculous. It was seriously a spectacle with the whole marching band behind him and everything…oh jeeze Idol, what are you coming to.

I'm the one wearing a dress, and I'LL decide what qualifies as ridiculous around here, thanks! I LOVE Renaldo. I'd have rather HE won this season than Cook. In fact, I've had the video of his audition on my iPod since the week it happened! Julie, he is your BROTHER! Your best friend FOREEEEEEVER!

NO! STOP IT! I can't stand that song!

Singing the songs, the music that you liiiiike!

Seriously, you guys! That's REALLY annoying!

We're brothers til the end of time! Together or not, you're always in my heart! Your hurting feelings will reign no moooooooOOOOOOOOoooore!!!

I wanted to talk about the finale! Come on! Syesha looked awesome last night, I loved her dress. Her song with Seal was cool, but I felt like she should have been singing in a higher key!

WE ARE ALL BROOOOOTHERS!

How much did you love Jason’s “Hallelujah?" It was great! It almost made we want to download it!


YOUR BEST FRIEND FOREEEEEVER!

I liked Carly and Michael coming back for a duet, they did leave the show to soon, or at least Johns did, but I wish they would have given them a different song to sing! Come on, guys! You won't even stop to make a CARLY FAT JOKE?!


SINGING THE SONGS, THE MUSIC THAT YOU LIIIIIIIIIKE!


David Cook actually fit in quite well with ZZ Top even with the lack of beard. I really liked his voice to “Sharp Dressed Man!” Guys! I set you up! Do a David Cook has no beard because he's bald joke! SOMETHING! ANYTHING BUT THAT SONG!!!

WE'RE BROTHERS TILL THE END OF TIME!


I'm trying to be professional, here! Brooke’s duet with Graham Nash certainly seemed the most natural of all the pair ups of the night! I'M SURPRISED CARLY SIMON DIDN'T SIGN UP FOR A DUET! Hear that, guys? BROOKE! YOU LOVE BROOKE, RIGHT? WILL YOU STOP SINGING FOR BROOKE?!!

TOGETHER FOREVER, TILL THE END OF TIME!


I HONESTLY DON'T REALLY KNOW THAT MUCH ABOUT THE JONAS BROTHERS, OTHER THAN THEY'RE BIG WITH THE DISNEY CHANNEL CROWD! THEY SEEM LIKE CUTE KIDS -- MAYBE THEY'RE RECRUITING ARCHIE FOR THE GROUP! HE'D FIT IN PERFECTLY!!!! GUYS! YOU'RE KILLING ME!?!!

I AM YOU BROOOOOOOOOOOOTHER! YOUR BEST FRIEND FOREEEEEEEEEEEEVER!!!


Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaagh! That's IT! I am OUT of here! Join me for the So You Think You Can Dance? blog, right here on Electric Blogaloo, Chatterheads! See you for Season 8 of American Idol, if these guys ever stop SINGING THAT SONG!

A Few Moments Later, After Julie is Gone...

Well, David Cook may have won, but...thanks to Mr. Renaldo Lapuz, I think we got the last laugh on Julie Heart.

That was HOT, man! We got MAD skillz, dogg!

I guess it was a pretty entertaining season, overall. Plenty to talk about, a lot of great characters...I mean, Carrie Underwood's skimpy finale outfit ALONE was enough to make the whole thing worthwhile for me!

Really? I'll have to check that out...

A must-see, definitely. She was "SMOKIN' HOT," as you'd say. But, I guess there isn't much more to say.

Yeah. I guess OUR finale's dragging on a little long with a bunch of filler!

Ha ha ha, true. Well, that's all for Idol Chatter, this season. See you next time, fans. Ready to get out of here?

I've BEEN ready. Let's put Season 7 and this weird David Cook win behind us and not look back, dude!

Thanks for reading all season! We hope you'll keep checking out Electric Blogaloo for all the latest FOX43 news and gossip. And don't miss the "So You Think You Can Dance?" blog, coming very soon! Idol Expert Julie Heart stars...but it's got a flavor all its own, and a few surprises in store as we head into the summer. Until next time, Idol Chatter...out!

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 11:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
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The Battle of the Davids is upon us. Mini-mano a baldo. Who deserves to be your next American Idol?

It was pointed out to me by the lovely Daphne Bellevue, who will be jumping in to blog on Dancing with the Stars with our own lovely Julie Heart in a matter of days, that I said, early in the season, neither David Archuleta nor David Cook would win Season 7. I went so far as to call David Cook the "Chris Sligh" of Season 7. I apologize to Chris Sligh for that comparison. Sligh was FAR more innovative and interesting than David Cook when he was on the show...and even HE didn't deserve to win! And Archie? C'mon. He was interesting...the one vocal cord thing was neat for about 10 minutes. But I was sure one of the ladies would win this season! The guys were all so milquetoast, so same-y, so CLICHE. Welcome to your Final 2 - Clyde's Worst Nightmare, America!

Ok, I have to admit...the boxing theme opening the show was cute. They really tried to make this Battle of the Davids (TM) a must-see event! Maybe they took it a little too far, making the whole show into a boxing match...but at least they tried. And thanks for the So You Think You Can Dance? blog plug, Clyde.

Of course, darling. Artie, are you here?

I'm here, and I was there, baby. I paid my money...and I SAW IT ALL. Let's do some Idol Chattin' about...the FINALE PERFORMANCES! Yeeaaaah!

ROUND ONE - SONGS CHOSEN BY CLIVE DAVIS
David Cook
performed I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For by U2

Cook came out strong, singing “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” He didn't make a lot of changes to the song, but it still had his own feel to it. I think he had a great performance, good energy.

I hate U2. Hate them. Got that? Really, really, really don't like their music. Fitting, then, that David Cook started off the night by singing this one. Sure, he didn't choose it, but...if we can give him credit for being original some weeks for singing songs he didn't choose, why can't I knock him this week for not picking something I don't like? I want to be honest...I came into this finale with my mind made up. I would be objective, not let my distaste for the finalists cloud my judgement. I didn't want this final Idol Chatter predictions column to be a big, hateful letter to the Davids. I've done that. It didn't matter. So, I'm calling it like it see it, as objectively as I can. It was fine. Not great. He's not Bono, and I don't think it's a song you can really change so drastically that anyone will forget Bono ever had anything to do with it. Decent, but it left me feeling like David A would take Round One...not questioning whether or not I might have been wrong about calling Archuleta to win this competition before the finale. Bad sign.

I liked it! It was good. I am coming out..I liked it! Great song choice. Good job, Clive Davis! Now we know why you do what you do! I think it showcased his ACTUAL voice, and it's an anthem that a lot of people know and like. Even the younger generations, I bet. And I think he did it well. He didn't bust out the Our Lady Peace mumbles or hit any MEGA POWER NOTES or anything. So, he kinda' stayed where the song needed him to be. I do think he could've done a bit MORE with it, but it was pretty good. And I do like that song, personally. I don't think he slaughtered it by any means. Good job, song number one! Way to open the show.

David Archuleta
performed Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me by Elton John

Archie came out stronger with “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” and really got the crowd going wild. I hate to say it, but...round one goes to Archuleta.

Yeah...somebody just got blown outta' the wattah. OUCH. Dude, he just NAILED that, pretty hardcore. That was probably one of his best performances so far. He actually showed some feeling on it, and he actually put a little GRUNT in there, which we've never seen before. OH MY GOD, look at me...I'm getting excited about David Archuleta! He wins!

Great. Awesome performance. This was the first time in WEEKS I've sat through an Archie performance and didn't leave feeling angry at the world. Perfect song choice by Clive, perfect performance. I was swept up in it, start to finish. He may have already won the night based on this performance alone. His. Best. To. Date. Round One goes to Archuleta, no question.

ROUND TWO - SONGS FROM THE IDOL SONGWRITING CONTEST
David Cook
performed Dream Big by Emily Shackelton

Cook chose “Dream Big” and rocked it out. It really felt like you were at his concert when he started singing the song. It may not be the greatest song ever written, but he gave the performance his all.

That's gonna' be what his album sounds like. At least THREE of the tracks are going to be just like that. And I'm staying in the column of People Not Buying His Album. It was alright...he stretched his voice a little more in this song. So, that was good. He's got that going for him.

Which is nice.

Totally. Maybe he realized Archuleta wasn't fooling around? So, he tried to show off a little more of what he's got. I don't know if he did a spectacular job, but...it was a'ight.

I thought it was a bad choice, because a lot of it is sung in the lower register, and his vocals are always HORRIBLE when he has to sing low notes. All of these contest songs suck, but it didn't feel like he really listened to all of them and picked the one people might want to hear again and again and again. He picked one I had designated for Kristy Lee Cook, of all people, when I reviewed the Songwriting Contest selections.

David Archuleta
performed In This Moment by Ryan Gillmor

Dude, the kid WINS. What's the point? I mean, that was really gooooooood. He...you know...he's putting his heart into it. Just seems like Cook was coastin' a little bit.

"In this moment, no one can take it away from me." Certainly not David Cook, at this point...har har har. I was depressed by the song choice, but he sang it well. It was a bit shakier than his first performance, but he pulled it out. This is a round-by-round battle, as we're constantly reminded by the judges and producers...and Archie just popped Cook upside the head for another win. He's 2-0, in my book. I can't get over how much I hate this song, though:

It was a good performance, but he came off sounding a little whiny. Again not the best song, but he made it good. I think round two was more of a draw….even if Simon did give it to Archie.

ROUND THREE - SONGS CHOSEN BY THE CONTESTANTS
David Cook
performed The World I Know by Collective Soul

For his last song, Cook sang Collective Soul’s “The World I Know.” It was an emotional performance of a song I really enjoy, but I completely agree with Simon. It was the wrong song to end the competition on. He needed to do “Billy Jean” or “Hello,” because that would have been much more memorable and people would have voted for it in higher numbers.

While that was a decent vocal on Cook's part, I don't think it did the song justice. It's a pretty cool song, I like that song...but I think he took something off of it, somehow. Not the best. I mean, it was kinda' cool that he chose something offbeat and not wicked mainstream, but I don't think it was a good song to pick for tonight. Like, "OH MY GOD, I'M GONNA' WIN IDOL TONIGHT WITH THIS SONG, SO SUCK IT ARCHULETA." I'm not sure why he'd go the low-key route for what could be his final performance on Idol. It's bizarre.

"The World I Know" is not a "song I know." After that performance, which, oddly, ended on kind of a low, boring note - not how you want to end your final song on the Idol stage - I won't exactly be rushing to the iTunes Store. It was a bit dreary, to me. Cook wasn't on his game, and I don't think this one did him any favors. Unless there are millions of Collective Soul fans out there simply dying to call a reality show several hundred times each at a moment's notice whenever they hear someone sing one of the band's songs.

David Archuleta
performed Imagine by John Lennon

I was fully expecting Archie to bring back “Imagine” for the finale –it was arguably his best performance and he knew it. I didn’t expect him to make any changes in the song, so that was interesting. I still hate this kid, but he takes round three.

Good man, Archie. This is the song that brought him to the dance, made him a true frontrunner. He nailed it. The kid's got pipes, and his smart, strategic decision to go second (securing the final song of the night) means this sweet, memorable peformance is the one everyone's going to remember when they reach for the phones and start voting. David Archuleta wins the night by TKO. 3 unanswered victories in 3 rounds. Done. The end. Crown this kid.

That was the least-impressive of the night, for him. I give that half a vocal cord out of a possible one. Going back to the well...really? Actually, I agree with what David Cook said about this being a "progression." I agree with Cook picking a song he hadn't performed before...he just didn't pick the RIGHT new song. Picking something safe kinda' backfired for me. Nothing fresh, nothing new...boo, David Archuleta. You're still gonna' win, though.

THE IDOL EXPERTS' FINAL CALLS

Based solely on last night’s finale performances Archie wins it, but if you take the whole competition into mind, I think Cook has it. Since most people’s memories are that of a goldfish, I think Archie is probably gonna be this year’s Idol, and it pisses me off. That stupid, gaspy, whiney kid is going to be the winner and he’ll probably sell a bunch of records, but I’ll never buy them. Cook on the other hand is going to end up like the next Daughtry and I’m sure that he will outsell Archie every step of the way, and history will remember him as the better performer. Cook spent the whole competition singing songs that he could actually release on a CD. Archie spent his time singing songs that were too old for him or not in his genre, but everybody just fawned all over him telling him how great he is. The only way I can properly describe what will happen to Archie in the future is best stated by the great Michael Myers in an SNL skit entitled “Phillip the Hyper-Hypo:”

(Archie = Grace)

Phillip: Wow. You're surrounded by a lot of positive support.

Grace: What?

Phillip: Nothing.

Grace: I'm gonna sing a song for you. ("Tie me kangaroo down, sport" song) That was fun!

Phillip: Whatever, okay.

Grace: Don't you think I have a pretty voice?

Phillip: I gotta say you know, when you get older, people aren't going to support you so much.

Grace: Why not?

Phillip: My cousin was a cute kid and then he hit puberty and his face exploded. Now he looks around and he's wondering where all the people who said he was cute went to.

Oh, someone's just bitter her boy doesn't have a chance. I made my call weeks ago, and I'll stand by it. David Archuleta will win Season 7 of American Idol. It didn't matter who won the night. Though, incidentally, I think Little Archie completely and utterly DESTROYED Cook at every turn. Outclassed. The only way Archie can lose is if all the little kids in his fanbase were forced by mom and dad to go to bed before the 4 hours of voting ended. Let's look at the facts:

David Cook, Overall: He showed up. He sang three songs and didn't forget any lyrics. He was pleasant during interview segments. He didn't get rattled when Simon pointed out how badly he was botching the night after every song. Still, never really looked like he wanted to win this thing at all. Failed to knock it out of the park even once.

David Cook's Fans Might Not Have Voted Because: Totally drunk, dude. Passed out after leaving embarrassing phone messages for old flames.

David Archuleta, Overall: He showed up...to WIN. Every song was a perfect choice. His interview segments were...still horrible. But he looked like he geniuinely WANTED to win. He looked like he NEEDED the compliments of the judges and the roar of the crowd - lest stage-dad pop HIM upside the head back at home. Hate on him if you must...but his voice is pretty great. For a kid.

David Archuleta's Fans Might Not Have Voted Because: Past their bedtime. Mom and dad won't spring for unlimited texting. Totally got caught up in a High School Musical 2 sing-along karaoke encore on Disney Channel, forgot all about Idol. Hell has frozen over.

I think it's time I raise the question - Did David Cook buy into all that "he'd be better off if he DIDN'T win" nonsense and actually THROW the competition? It really seemed like he wasn't even trying. I mean, maybe I absolutely don't get him and there's some kind of genius at work...but I doubt it. Simon echoed my thoughts all night (except for the part about Cook being one of the most sincere contestants ever...I still don't buy that), and Cook took some much-deserved Battle Damage. I just don't think he can win...and last night certainly didn't go his way. I think he may have taken a dive. Archie was flawless, and even I was actually pulling for him after the Elton John song. Brilliant performance, brilliant choice by Mr. Davis. Archuleta wins.

David Archuleta. Wins. Dogg.

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: American Idol, Archuleta, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Cook, Daphne Bellevue, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart

Join our Idol Experts for some funny and honest commentary that didn't make it to our written Idol Chatter column! In this episode:

-Which David will win?
-Let's fix Idol!
-Season 7 = Water Torture
-Aiken v. Daughtry...FIGHT!

And more! Click on!

Check them out here on the Blogaloo, or hit up FOX43's YouTube page. They'll be up there, too!

Leave a comment to let us know what you think...or to join in the discussion!

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 5:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart, podcast

Wow it has been a year since the last season of So You Think You Can Dance and what now of this season? Many fans have been waiting to see their friends make a fool of themselves and get on tv for doing it. Wait a minute, this sounds familiar. Oh we are almost done a show like that!(American Idol!)

But I am sure there will be some BETTER talent this year than last! And hopefully it won't be as corny, as it was in a few episodes last year! But if you love dancing and like watching it you should watch this show starting this Thursday at 8 o'clock PM est.

The show feature dancers from all over the US, who in turn, are trying to get a chance in superstardom in the dance world. You might know the stars of the show, Cat Deeley - the host, the common judges - Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy, along with the alternating judges - Mia Michaels and a list of others!

Don't forget to put on your dancing shoes cause your not going to need them! But it's all entertainment so sit back and enjoy the show!

Posted by Matt Bushey at 10:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS:

FOX will be airing Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles again! If you loved last season, why not watch this season? Prison Break also is starting up again at the end of this summer. Who knows what will happen! You'll have to watch and find out for yourself!

The line up of shows premiering are as follows:

Beginning Monday, August 11, 2008, from 8:00-9:00pm (ET/PT), FOX presents encore episodes of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles!

Beginning Monday, August 11, 2008, from 9:00-10:00pm (ET/PT), FOX presents encore episodes of Prison Break!

Beginning Tuesday, July 22, 2008, from 8:00-9:00pm (ET/PT), FOX presents encore episodes of BONES, and from 9:00-10:00pm (ET/PT), encore episodes of HOUSE!

Beginning Wednesday, August 13, 2008, from 8:00-10:00pm (ET/PT), FOX presents back-to-back encore episodes of Kitchen Nightmares!

FOX has two NFL Preseason games scheduled for Thursday nights on August 14 and August 21. Thursday night programming beginning August 28 will be announced at a later date.

Beginning FRIDAY, AUGUST 8, 2008, from 8:00-10:00pm (ET/PT), FOX presents back-to-back encore episodes of ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIFTH GRADER?

On Monday, August 4, 2008, from 8:00-10:00pm (ET/PT), FOX presents the 2008 Teen Choice Awards!

Posted by Matt Bushey at 1:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
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NEW YORK (AP) — Fox is launching only two new series in the fall, traditionally its slow season, but the network plans flashy two-hour premieres of four shows during the same week as the Democratic National Convention.

The network's biggest priorities next season will be launching two new science fiction series by the creative forces behind "Lost" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."

Despite some audience erosion from "American Idol," Fox will end the current television season as the nation's most popular network among all viewers, not just young ones. That's the first time Fox has achieved this in its 20-year history, and it breaks CBS' five-year winning streak.

Its edgy strategy hasn't changed, though.

"We're just looking for good, noisy shows," said Fox Entertainment President Kevin Reilly.

"Fringe," "Bones," "Prison Break" and "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader" will open the fall season the week of Aug. 25.

They should not conflict with major moments of the convention because political planners try to time them after 10 p.m. on the East Coast, when the shows will be over, said Peter Liguori, Fox entertainment chairman. Fox is avoiding any conflict on Thursday, when the party's nominee gives an acceptance speech.

Producer J.J. Abrams ("Lost") is behind "Fringe," a drama about an airplane flight whose passengers meet untimely ends. "Fringe" will be paired on the schedule with "House" on Tuesdays in the fall and "American Idol" in the spring.

A comedy, tentatively titled "Do Not Disturb" and set in a trendy Manhattan hotel, is the only other new fall show.

Fox executives said their series development was hurt by the writers strike, one factor in the small number of new fall shows. But the new season on Fox usually starts slowly and kicks in when "American Idol" and "24" join the schedule in January.

Some network rivals are being conservative in introducing shows this fall "by default," Reilly said. "We're doing it by strategy."

Joss Whedon ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer") is the creator of midseason entry "Dollhouse," about an underground group whose members have their personalities erased so they can be given others. Two animated and one alternative series will debut in midseason.

Fox is reintroducing viewers to "24," which wasn't shown this year because of the strike, with a two-hour prequel Nov. 23.

Fox executives introduced their schedule to advertisers a week after "Idol," TV's biggest show, had its smallest Tuesday audience in five years. Fox was satisfied with the show creatively but not with its performance, Liguori said.

"The network and producers really want to take a look at the show next year and see what we can do to inject it with new levels of energy and greater storytelling," he said. The Wednesday results show will be cut from an hour to 30 minutes.

And, yes, Paula Abdul will be back, he said.

The network canceled "Back to You," the sitcom with Kelsey Grammer and Patricia Heaton. Reilly said the show didn't seem to be striking a chord and he wasn't confident of its future direction. The comedy "'Til Death" will be back but revamped to expand the cast, he said.

The two animated shows are Seth MacFarlane's "The Cleveland Show," about a man who marries his high school sweetheart, and "Sit Down, Shut Up," about staff members at a high school. The alternative series is "Secret Millionaire," which takes some rich folks and puts them undercover in poor neighborhoods.

Click here for the source
Cilck here to see more on the new shows

Posted by Matt Bushey at 11:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Jan. 8, 2008) – The NASCAR Foundation announced today that it will celebrate “Five Years of Caring” May 16 during the fifth anniversary of NASCAR Day.
Present for the announcement at Daytona International Speedway was country music superstar Garth Brooks, who will serve as this year’s spokesperson. As part of his role, Brooks will appear in a print, radio and television advertising campaign. Past celebrity spokespersons for NASCAR Day include Will Ferrell and Kelly Clarkson.

“It’s an honor to have Garth serve as our 2008 NASCAR Day spokesperson,” said Mike Helton, NASCAR president and NASCAR Foundation board member. “We are thrilled to someone of Garth Brooks’ magnitude. He will be a great ambassador for NASCAR Fans, NASCAR Day and the NASCAR Foundation.” Over the past five years, nearly five million dollars has been raised to help those who need it most in a celebration as unique as the sport itself. NASCAR Day, celebrated annually on the third Friday in May, is an opportunity for fans, corporations, schools and organizations across the country to donate $5 to The NASCAR Foundation to raise funds for its Family of Charities in an effort to help thousands of children live better lives. In 2007, The NASCAR Foundation donated $500,000 to Kyle and Pattie Petty’s Victory Junction Gang Camp from funds raised during NASCAR Day. As a result of NASCAR Day last year, The Home Depot was able to raise $400,000 for The NASCAR Foundation with a portion of those funds benefiting KaBOOM!, a national non-profit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. During that same year the Foundation also donated $250,000 to Speediatrics, motorsports-themed pediatric units at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach, Fla. and Homestead Hospital in Homestead, Fla.

Posted by Matt Bushey at 9:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
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Before you ever again question Paula Abdul's judgement, watch this clip.

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 2:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: American Idol, Paula Abdul, Video

Fans have been waiting almost a year for the return of 24, television’s most addictive drama. On Sunday, November 23 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT), the wait will be over as FOX presents a special two-hour prequel event.

Shot on location in South Africa, Jack Bauer battles an international crisis, while here at home the nation prepares for a new president on inauguration day. Taking place just a few months before the new day dawns, the prequel will set the stage and raise the stakes for Season Seven.

“We're excited about the prequel because it explores Jack's complex emotional state of mind and still has all the signature excitement and suspense that fans have come to expect from 24,” commented executive producer Howard Gordon. “Shooting in South Africa affirms everyone’s commitment to making this season especially memorable for our fans.”

Celebrating its 150th episode this season, the series has resumed production on “Day 7” and will unfold without interruption in its regular time period Mondays (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) beginning in January 2009.

Set in Washington, DC, “Day 7” finds CTU dismantled and Jack Bauer on trial. Bauer’s day takes an unexpected turn when former colleague TONY ALMEIDA (Carlos Bernard) returns. Meanwhile, President ALLISON TAYLOR (Cherry Jones) leads the country alongside White House Chief of Staff ETHAN KANIN (Bob Gunton) and First Gentleman HENRY TAYLOR (Colm Feore).

A national security crisis prompts an investigation by a team of FBI agents including Agent JANIS GOLD (Janeane Garofalo), Agent RENEE WALKER (Annie Wersching), Agent LARRY MOSS (Jeffrey Nordling), Agent SEAN HILLINGER (Rhys Coiro) and security specialist MICHAEL LATHAM (John Billingsley). Although CTU is no longer, CHLOE O’BRIAN (Mary Lynn Rajskub) and BILL BUCHANAN (James Morrison) are back for another momentous day of shocking events

As part of News Corp.’s global commitment to fighting climate change, 24 has pledged significant and innovative changes to its production practices with the goal of saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.

Created by Joel Surnow and Robert Cochran, 24 is a production of Real Time Productions and Imagine Television in association with 20th Century Fox Television. Howard Gordon, Evan Katz, Jon Cassar, Manny Coto, David Fury, Kiefer Sutherland and Brian Grazer are the executive producers.

Posted by Matt Bushey at 1:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
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There can be only one...and now we know the Final 2!

Only the lovely Syesha Mercado remained as an alternative to a Battle of the Davids (TM) finale...

...would the all-time American Idol record-holder for appearing in the Bottom 3 (or 2, or whatever it is that week) pull off the upset and knock off a David?

No. Syesha Mercado has been eliminated from the competition. She was tenacious, sticking around far longer than many fans predicted...but, her luck ran out last night. She went out graciously and with a smile.

Awww.

Now, isn't that how you'd rather remember her - as opposed to "That Chick Who Lost to David Archuleta in the Finale?" Sure it is!

So, there you have it! The finale some considered inevitable turned out to be just that. It's David "talk to the hand" Cook against David "breathe into the paper bag" Archuleta in the final showdown for ultimate musical supremacy.

FOX43 Idol Expert Artie didn't mess around, this week. He called Syesha to leave, and leave she did. What do you have to say going into the final week of Season 7, Mr. Funk?

Funk: Doyyy...dogg. I can see the light -- and it's not just the light glaring off of David Cook's forehead! OHHHHHHHHH!!! It's almost over! I guess I'm kinda' interested to see what they do for the finale. The regalia and all. So, you know, I'll be there, along with millions of other Americans for the finale. Let's get this done!

Though FOX43 Idol Expert Julie Heart thought David Archuleta had the worst night...she called Syesha to pack her bags and leave. And, again...leave she did. Julie?

Heart: So this whole show was a big build up to a predictable end. First we had a group song that didn’t work as per usual, then a past Idol sang. I think the look on Simon’s face during Fantasia’s performance spoke for everyone… “Duuuhuuh?” What the heck was that? I forgot how weird she was. Then each of the contestants had their home trip. If I didn’t hate Archie before, seeing him break down in tears when he saw all the girls going crazy for him…put me over the top. Gosh! It was cute that David Cook honored his elementary school music teacher-that was sweet of him. When they played his story it was fitting that it was to a Daughtry song. Syesha’s home trip was cool, you could tell her family and town loves her. We saw a bit more of her dad who looks like he’s still on the straight and narrow with drugs. I’m sure the producers loved her tearing up so much as well, but her crying didn’t make me want to smack her like Archie’s does. In the end it was no surprise that Syesha left us. The Battle of the Davids (TM) has been predictable since Brooke left, she was the only one that I think could have challenged either of their spots in the finale-but alas her mistakes did her in too soon. I’m calling Cook to win and I don’t care who knows it.

FOX43 Idol Expert Clyde Collins made his official call of "Archuleta wins this season" weeks ago. He also knew Syesha would go home last night. Care to brag a bit, Clyde?

Collins: Battle of the Davids? Might as well call it Attack of the Clones, because there's nothing unique or interesting about either of them. Even Julie said it was "fitting" Daughtry was played under Cook's "let's pretend he's going home" video segement...in Clyde-speak, that translates to "David Cook actually IS Chris Daughtry, and he's going to take off his mask and cackle wildly at the world next Tuesday night after his final performance." I'd also like to point out that David Cook cried like a little girl in his video, as well. So, they're all guilty of being blubbering messes, and that'd be okay if this was the FIRST AND ONLY TIME IT HAD HAPPENED. What a bunch of crybabies we've had on this season. Of the Final 3, Syesha's the most-likeable. The judges made a habit of pointing out how she's not an original, and that she doesn't stack up well against established beasts like Mariah Carey or Alicia Keys...but the two guys get away with being same-y and repetitive every week. The finale is going to be completely the same as we've ever seen from them - neither Cook nor Archuleta has the ability to surprise us. Neither is particularly spectacular. Archie's got a good voice for an awkward dorky kid, and Cook could front a pretty kick-ass local cover band...but, hey. That's your Final 2, humans. I didn't get you into this mess - you did it yourself. I'll be there, watching, and I'll be thrilled to claim dominance in the field of Idolomics when David Archuleta is crowned your new American Idol. Great seeing Fantasia again, by the way. She's definitely unique and interesting...not a shock Julie and the rest of those mainstream, David-voting Americans don't get her at all. Last time she was on the show, she advised the contestants to not be afraid to be UGLY. That means stop worrying about hitting every note and plastering down ever remaining comb-forward hair. That means focus on connecting, singing with all the emotion you can muster...and THEN some. Fantasia is NOT the greatest singer ever to win this show, but she can out-emote all the other winners combined and multiplied by 50. David Archuleta and David Cook will NEVER be able to do that. Archie showed a bit of youth, a bit of humor this week, when he sang that Chris Brown "boo" song. Cook...didn't veer in any way from what he always does - three rapid-fire rock ballads, sung shakily and patched together with his always-the-same-pitch-and-length "rock scream." Let's not kid ourselves...the rocker can't win Idol. It won't happen this year, and Archu-D2 is your new, robotic, lab-created Moustketeer overlord. Bow down...and hope Season 8 is better than this predictable, uninspired mess.

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: American Idol, Archuleta, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Cook, David, Finale, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart, Syesha

The Top 3 sing 3 songs...can Syesha take out one of the Davids?

Is this season still happening? I'm way over it. I don't really like anyone left, so...hey, let's do this. I suppose.

Oh, cheer up, Clyde. Last night was really good, and there's a lot to talk about!

I think last night was confusing. People were complimented for taking risks on songs they didn't even PICK on their own. Where's the risk in performing a song someone else picked for you when the risk is usually in the song you pick? I didn't get it last night, but...yay, Top 3!

David Archuleta
performed And So It Goes, With You and Longer

First song was a really nice, clean vocal. Second song was a bit odd, but I liked it in a "Jason Catro/Probably Shouldn't Be Doing This" kind of way. Out-of-character?! Yes! Finally! Final song was well-sung but kind of the same thing he always does, back to form. You know, I think he's going to win. I don't care for him, but I'm glad his "With You" performance at least mixed it up. Archie singing about his "boo" is sure to go over well with his young girl posse. Third song was kind of back to form, and I didn't like it as much. Fine vocal, nothing wrong with it, just not a big Wow Moment (TM). He doesn't need to knock it out of the park, though. Tah dah.

You really notice how boring Archie’s voice is when there isn’t any music behind him at the beginning of his first song. I mean he can sing well, but I don’t think he understood the emotion behind the song, and didn’t really give it anything. But of course the judges just gushed all over him. I really doubt that Archie picked his song, you know his all controlling father told him what to do, and you can tell he wasn’t cracking the whip as hard this week (being banned by producers) because little Archie looks like he almost forgets the words again in the beginning. Singing Chris Brown was awkward for him, especially trying to pull off saying “boo” -so not him. On the other hand, you know all those tinibopper girls prob loved it. Third song…nice song, good predictable performance, but I’m so bored with this squinty, gaspy, stupid kid.

Same thing I think every week. Syrupy, gooey, sappy...but, well done. I still think, vocally, he's the most-talented of the three left, with solid performances everywhere. I still think he SHOULD win, even though I don't really want ANY of them to win, at this point. He's the lesser of three evils for me, at this point.

Syesha Mercado
performed If I Ain't Got You, Fever and Hit Me Up

It was def smart that Randy chose an Alicia Keys song for Syesha. I wish we saw more contemporary songs being sung this year because that’s the world these singers are going to be thrown into to sell their records. Syesha’s performance was good, it seemed a little rushed in the beginning, but I think she pulled it off in the end. I think “Fever” was a fantastic song choice for Syesha, it’s such a sexy song and she got to show off her acting chops a bit. She always does so much better when she’s having fun and enjoying herself. She didn’t sing the song perfectly, and the performance was a tad cheesy at parts, but I think she did a good job and it was memorable-which is what she needs, people to remember she’s still in it and it’s not just the Battle of the Davids (TM) quite yet. Syesha’s last song was fun and upbeat, but it wasn’t her best performance. She didn’t seem as into it as some of her other songs.

OK...we all know she's hot. That skirt she wore during "Fever" was...nnnnnice. What proved to be more revealing than her OUTFITS, though, were her performances the last couple of weeks. I think I've come to realize that she's not quite as good as I have thought all season. I agree with the judges when they say she kinda' needs to find her spot, who she is as an artist...and THEN she might be able to thrive. But, recently, she's just kinda' gone down in quality in my opinion. I think she's totally gone this week.

Glad you've finally come to that realization, Artie. It was getting lonely over here, hating on Syesha. Her first song was bad because she isn't Alicia Keys. Her second song was bad because "Fever" has been done 1,000 times on this show, and it's just pedestrian at this point. Her last song, from Happy Feet, was the best she's ever done. It is the only Syesha performance I've EVER enjoyed, and I bet I'm in the minority in a big way. She needs to be doing current stuff, stuff that people who really aren't AMAZING singers can Hip-Hop their way through. And, Paula...Happy Feet IS about penguins. Paula SO obviously wants Syesha gone. Everyone has their minds made up. It's pretty much over for Ms. Mercado, shame. I liked the "young and fun" feel of her last song, and am glad she's out on a happy note...the way she came in, the way we fell in love with her before she started boring us.

David Cook
performed The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, Dare You to Move and I Don't Want to Miss a Thing

I wasn’t really familiar with the song that Simon choose for David Cook, but I liked it. It’s usually a good idea have a male sing a female song of vice versa when you want them to sound original, and I think Simon did that on purpose, it also had an interesting vibe with a rock feel to it at the end. I like the song “Dare You to Move”, but I wasn’t in love with this performance, he did an ok job, but I don’t think it really did anything for him. Cook left the show on a high note though. His rendition of “Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” was awesome. When that song got played over and over and over again after Armageddon came out, I grew to hate it, but with David Cook bringing it back.-I liked it.

Well...now that we know who has the "cougar" vote wrapped up...

...shudder...Thanks, Mom!!

...and that he can turn a Roberta Flack song into a David Cook song...OH MY GOD! Well, at least that's what the judges thought. I didn't really like that song. First one didn't do much for me, either. Last one was actually pretty good. I think he went out strong with that one, but...I just don't think it was all that great. I keep getting the feeling he's going to pull out a surprise win in the end over Archie. I'm feeling the tides turn, here, and it makes me sad...because, as I said before, I think Archuleta's more talented than Cook is. I suppose the "truth" remains to be seen, though. He's safe this week!

First song was a rock ballad. Second song was a rock ballad. Third song...rock ballad. Great diversity, really showed off his versatility and depth as a performer. I have no idea what he might throw at us on his post-Idol album...he can't go a week without surprising and delighting us all. (Cough.) Look, the first was vintage Cook. Fans will eat it up, even if no one's ever heard the song. Second song was horrible, nothing but clams and wailing. Horrible. And the third was more of the same. I like that song. I know it well. David Cook is no Steven Tyler. He's just...same as he ever was. He's doing what he does, and I don't like what he does. He'll be in the finale, and I will be so, so happy when this season is over and I never have to care about what he does again. Ever.

I know few Idols fans will agree with me, but I think Archie had the worst night and should go home. Realistically we all know that Syesha will be the one packing her bags this week. She put up a good fight, but we’ll see the Battle of the Davids (TM) in next week’s finale. I’m sure no one’s surprised, but after that last performance I’m putting my money on David Cook to win this thing.

Archie will win. The "rocker" can't win American Idol, and Syesha's been around for way too long, any way. She's out. Battle of the Davids (TM). Be there, if you're into predictable performances by those guys I don't like.

Syesha's gone. I didn't even need to see her performances to know that...but, having seen them, they didn't change my mind. Sorry you won't be setting the bar even higher (lower?) for number of times surviving the Bottom 3. She's up to 7, by the way. That's an all-time record for American Idol.

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 11:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: American Idol, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart

Out of the 4 remaining singers, it was a 2-way fight to the death to see who gets to go home this week or next week!

With the Battle of the Davids looming overhead, only one challenger remains to spoil the producers' perfect finale. Who hung on long enough to be the Last Hope at shocking the world and taking down one - or both - of the mighty, invincible Davids?

Last night's results show left no one surprised when David Archuleta and David Cook were pronounced Safe for another week and enjoyed a nice, long rest on the fluffy Idol couch. We were left with Syesha Mercado and Jason Castro, both of whom have had ups and downs, this season.

No one had quite as rough a night as Jason did this Tuesday night, though...oozing through an awkward Bob Marley cover and forgetting Dylan lyrics.

America has shown that it only SORT OF likes Syesha, though, as she has consistently been in the Bottom 3 - even on her stronger weeks.

Which of the two talented non-Davids gets to go on to next week?

Jason Castro has been eliminated from the competition. The audience had no pity on him, and those pretty, blue eyes weren't enough to keep him safe after a lackluster performance Tuesday night (to say the least). He left many questioning whether or not even even still wanted to become the American Idol.

A happy Castro, back at home, enjoying a pluck on his trusty banjo.

Doesn't really matter much, now. Does it? He ain't it, and it's going to come down to David, David and Syesha.

FOX43 Idol Expert Artie was hardly taking his predictions seriously, this week. His REAL Bottom 2 included Syesha and Jason, with Jason going home. That's perfect, 100%, dead-on! His FAKE prediction saw a huge outpouring of support for Castro, somehow leading to the departure of David Cook. We can all dream, but we'll give Artie full credit for calling it perfectly. Care to comment, Mr. Funk?

Funk: I think he was just really nervous the ENTIRE time. I thought him singing and goofing around at the end during his final preformance was REALLY GOOD! He totally seemed relieved, so...he's one of the few that didn't look all that upset when he heard the news. If that's what it takes to make him more at ease and improve his singing...he's on the right track, now. That means Syesha totally made it through to the Top 3, which makes me even RIGHTER, this week, based on a call I made early in the season. Yeah, dogg! And, for the first time, I actually watched the WHOLE hour...and the group number they all forgot the steps through at the beginning? I laughed SO loud someone else came into the room to see what I was watching that was so funny. I'd like to know who is pretending to enjoy that for what it really is. The only reason I enjoyed it is because it was so...so...SO bad. Anyways, on to the Top 3! On to the hometowns! On to Syesha's elimination! Let's go at 'em!

FOX43 Idol Expert Julie Heart didn't really give a Bottom 2, though she did say, quite certainly, that it would be a "travesty" if anyone other than Jason went home. Travesty averted, Ms. Heart! What are your thoughts after last night's results show?

Heart: So Jason was the one that left last night, and I think he was happy to go. I have a feeling he would have felt bad if he was the one that stayed and Syesha had to go, because we all know she wants it more, and he was ready to leave. It was a very predictable show this week, but I guess it kind of gets that way when you get down to the top 4. Syesha didn’t deserve to be in the bottom two this week, but girls are crazy over those Davids. I’m glad that she was safe –wouldn’t it be amazing if it was Syesha and Cook in the finale, and by a twist of fate Archie’s other vocal cord went down and he couldn’t continue? Oh well wishful thinking. I hate that little Archie still comes on stage saying he’s nervous on the results show. C’mon kid, you know you’re safe, the judges know you’re safe, the fans know you’re safe…just go sit on the couch. Now, I think David Cook had a bit MORE reason to be nervous after his performances, but I wasn’t surprised to see him sail through this elimination round. And I'm with Artie on the group songs. I'm glad to know it's not just me. They're dumb with just four people…give it up…please.

FOX43 Idol Expert Clyde Collins has already made his call that David Archuleta is going to win this season. He couldn't care LESS about the order in which the rest of them go home, so his prediction for this week was, while "it's probably Jason," David Cook and Syesha are the Bottom 2, with her going home. America disagreed, hating her less than Castro for another week. Clyde, what are your thoughts on last night's show?

Collins: Look, I love American Idol. Don't get me wrong. But I am SO bored with this season, at this point, I can't even see straight! It's obvioius we're heading toward the coronation of David Archuleta, and that Syesha's doomed, and that David Cook will come in second. I mean...as I said, flip a coin! Between Jason and Syesha, one would go home this week, the other the next. Who cares?! I mean...Artie cares, but, still. The show's over, as far as I'm concerned. Jason was the last possible hope any of us had for keeping the season legitimate, and he stopped caring, too. Can't say I blame him! You could see the weight of the world had been lifted off his shoulders. If Syesha had been voted off, he may have been the first ever contestant to ask, on live TV, if he could go home instead of her, sparing Syesha for another week and becoming a hero for the ages - at least until she goes home next week. But, they're all going to be fine. They'll all go on the Top 10 Tour, many of them will probably release albums...we're just counting down the days until Archie joins Kelly, Ruben, Fantasia, Carrie, Taylor and Jordin.

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, David Archuleta, David Cook, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Jason Castro, Julie Heart, Results, Syesha Mercado

So, if ABC can spin-off the popular Grey's Anatomy with some other lame-o show about one of the boring doctors...

...why can't FOX spin-off its much-cooler show about awesome doctors - House?

Check out this gossip column bit one of your geniuses here at FOX43 dug up - it may not be what you're expecting from House 2.0 at all!

"Anywho... I'm jumping back on the House scoopwagon in a big way this week with news that Fox, in collaboration with producer NBC Universal, is quietly developing a House spin-off for next season. As I understand it, producers are introducing a new male character for a multi-episode arc and, assuming the actor they find really pops in the role, he may be spun off into his own show. But there's a twist, and it's a big one: Per multiple sources, this newbie is not a doctor, but rather a private investigator!"

So, is THIS how FOX finally gets a police procedural drama to last - basing it in the House universe? Whatever works! It'll be interesting to see whether or not this has to do with this week's episode, in which House kidnapped a soap opera star and kept him trapped in the hospital because the "Good Doctor" was convinced he had a brain tumor. During the hospital's inspection.

(Kind of like how Superintendent Chalmers always shows up at the worst possible time for Principal Skinner.)

Sure, the guy ended up actually being sick...but, still, just thinking out loud.

I'm interested until I hear the guy's name is Special Agent John Doggett, and he's investigating paranormal happenings (right around the release of the new X-Files movie).

(Cough.)

Anyway, see the original gossip column here...

...and let us know what you think might happen or who you think this person might/should be with a lovely comment!

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: Doggett, gossip, House, rumors, spin-off, X-Files

The 4 remaining contestants each had 2 choices out of a list of 500 legendary songs. Who stole the show and who flopped?

So the Idol’s continue tonight in their pursuit into new and popular music…oh wait, no they’re singing songs from the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame…so pretty much guaranteeing we still wont be hearing anything from the past decade…fun.

To be fair, almost no good music has happened in the past 10 years, Julie. So, no big loss. Still, this theme DID give them a chance to pick good music from a variety of genres and establish, once and for all, their identities. What did our Final 4 do with all that freedom? After last night, it's official: Rock & Roll is DEAD. Could these schmaltzy pukes have rocked LESS?! Anyway, this is usually the night where the judges make it blatantly obvious which singers they want to see in the finale.

Paula's Prepared Notes for the Week: "Great, Great, Great, I Hate You Jason Castro and I Want You to Die."

The Top 4 night is ALWAYS telling...after all, Seacrest invoked both Tamyra Gray and Chris Daughtry, last night. Big stuff, especially when, like me, you consider it a blatant effort to remind people to keep David Cook (and maybe Syesha) safe because the producers want him in the Final 2 (and Jason Castro out of the way).

Rock Night, huh? Let's rock this rockin' rocky place. Rockin'...rrrrock! Dogg.

David Cook
performed Hungry Like the Wolf and Baba O'Reilly

David Cook was up first singing “Hungry Like the Wolf”. It was a fun performance, entertaining, not major song changes, but good. His vocal didn’t really wow me, and it was kind of a safe song for him. I’m so glad he came back with The Who’s”Baba O’Reiley”, which I have to say is my favorite song from The Who. He really came alive with this, and at the end I was wishing they gave him more time to finish the song.

THAT'S your favorite Who song?! You need to listen to more of their music, dear...Artie?

What else is there to say at this point? Honestly? What do you want me to SAY?! It was a good performance...for him. Probably the least I've hated him in a while, I don't know. Maybe I've just become complacent to his style at this point, but he did his thing. And Duran Duran's thing. I thought the second song was called "Teenage Wasteland." I've learned something. Thank you, David Cook. You've enriched my life.

Um...care to comment on his performance, Funk?

NOPE!

Good man. Putting him in the first position, just DARING America not to vote for him...how cute. His first song was a pretty bland take on the innocuous 80s song by Duran Duran. Nothing new, nothing special, on par with just about any cover band in the world, nothing shocking about that. His second song, in which he took on The Who, Cook was back to form. I can't say I was a fan of his song choices, last night...his lower register notes are always AWFUL, and, after he started to "rawk" at the end of "Baba O'Reilly," it all completely fell apart. I thought to myself while watching, "These are horrible song choices, he's too shrewd for this kind of thing. What's he pulling?" I'll tell you what he's pulling - his only chance of winning is to go after Archie's fanbase! "Hungry Like the Wolf" will appeal to the college-age girls who hold such crap songs in the most special places of their hearts for GOD knows what reason, and the Who song goes right for old ladies who maybe USED to rock, but have since forgotten what it was like. That is to say...moms and grannies who would ever consider switching off the Adult Contemporary station, or who used to go for John Lennon over, say, Michael Buble. No harm, no foul. His performances weren't good enough to win any new fans...but he's going to stick around another week.

Syesha Mercado
performed Proud Mary and A Change is Gonna' Come

"Proud Mary" was fun! She looked HOT. You can tell that doing choreography and being able to play it up is pretty much what she likes being able to do, and I dig it. Totally having fun with it, like she said, and I was down with it. Second song...it was okay. Yo, Syesha - remember when I said I like when there's energy and it looks like you're havin' fun? LIke...two sentences ago? Yeah...that's better for you. Second song was kinda' just alright. Kinda' mediocre. Big, belty notes...I wasn't feelin' it. She didn't have enough heart in it.

I love that Syesha decided to sing “Proud Mary” because she does so much better with fun songs that she enjoys.

This may surprise you all, but I completely disagree with Julie and Artie, here. Syesha was foolish to take on this song. TOO BIG FOR HER.

NO. She really wowed me with it, she had her Idol Moment (TM). She’s proving she can be a fierce competitor with those boys, she’ll be here for the top three. With her second song, I feel like we got a real honest performance from Syesha. I don’t know if it was acting or real emotion, but either way I liked it.

Gyeeee-aaawwwwwd, I think we're watching different shows every week. Let's get REAL, here - the first song was a terrible mistake because she's incapable of rocking or hitting notes while dancing like that, and the second song was dreary and lifeless when she should've had us crying into our novelty Coca-Cola cups. How do you take all the impact out of "A Change is Gonna' Come?" HOW?! She had no "Moment," try as the judges might to convince us that she had. They clearly just want Jason gone, and I suspect that's why you wanted to like it so much, too, Julie. Anyway, here's Syesha's problem - she's got a good enough voice, she's stunning...but she HAS NO SOUL. She lacks the ability to make you feel ANYTHING. There's no truth or emotional impact behind her singing. She never makes you believe what she's saying, never draws you into the story of her song. She's only comfortable when she's playing a role, overdoing it Broadway-style. Early in the season, she seemed like she'd be The One - bright, sunny, interesting. Then we got to KNOW her. Bottom 3 several times. I've repeatedly complained about her emotionless singing style. She makes me miss people like Danny Norriega or the Lampkin siblings. At least they made you REACT. She's the one everyone wants to like, and the judges worked hard to try to send Jason home instead of her, last night. We'll see...but I still think she's got no shot of making it into the finale. Syesha was NOT incredible. She was decent, as usual. This is not a show about finding the mediocre. Then again...considering who's probably going to win, I can't be so sure about that anymore...

Jason Castro
performed I Shot the Sheriff and Mr. Tambourine Man

Jason singing Bob Marley seems fitting in theory, but it kinda reminded me of one of those teen movies where they point out the clique of white kids that think they’re Rastafarians. The performance was a little weird, and I’m thinking the rumor that Jason said he was tired of being on Idol…was probably true. This performance didn’t do him any favors. Bob Dylan was a much better fit for him…but he forgot the words…he’s the top four and he forgot the words?!? I’m sorry but what is THAT about? Is he seriously trying to get himself voted off?! I think so.

I'll agree with Julie on the stupid song choices. He's daring people to send him home, at this point. I like the guy...and I think he could've easily become the Dark Horse and made it into the finale with some smart choices. I don't like Bob Marley music, but even I know Castro's semi-funky take on it was sub-par. One positive is that people are going to remember it and talk about it. But the worst thing is...it was just confusing. The second song should've been his FIRST of the night, his "I'm doing this because I like it and I CAN" song, followed later in the show by the REAL one he wanted people to consider when voting. He failed to do that. He forgot his lyrics, but who cares? I don't. Whatever. Will he be safe? I don't know. We're led to believe he won't be, but this show hasn't been kind to ladies, lately. Specifically, Syesha's been kicked around all along. I hope he gets the chance to go again, next week. And I really LIKE that he isn't taking this dopey contest very seriously. Should've done an acoustic version of "Smells Like Teen Spirit," like I requested. Missed opportunity, Castro! Best of luck, you're the last bastion of genuineness this season. Don't know if you made a strong enough case, but your eyes are still dreamy. So...you got that going for you. Which is nice. And may make little girls text in votes.

The thing that's kind of refreshing about Castro is you can really tell that, unlike everybody else who's been through this competition, he's not taking it as seriously as maybe he SHOULD be. But...it just doesn't seem like he's into high-pressure situations. He doesn't let anything bug him. It's kinda' cool! Castro doing "I Shot the Sheriff?" Shot his chance at becoming American Idol is more like it. That was kinda' weird. On one hand, I like that he kinda' embraced the whole "I'm a stoner" vibe...on the OTHER hand, spots were rough, vocally. It wasn't all that strong a performance. He was definitely feelin' it, almost PASSIONATE about it at times...and that came through in his vocal. Those spots were strong, but there were still those pesky OTHER spots. I don't think that'll carry him through to next week. And the second song? My guess as to what happened here was...after he got chopped down by the judges after the first song, he went to the back and smoked a couple bowls...and forgot some of the lyrics to a Bob Dylan song. Lyrics you don't have to sing very clearly, anyway...so what harm could it do? I think he was paying TRIBUTE to Dylan by not singing the lyrics right. Look, it wasn't as bad as some people will SAY it was...but...Vote for the Worst got it right backing him. He's in the most trouble out of the 4 of them, if I can state the obvious.

David Archuleta
performed Stand By Me and Love Me Tender

First song was more of the same! "Stand By Me" is overdone, and all Archie did was slap his usual coat of Vanilla White paint on it and enjoy the glowing praise. This one's for the Claymates and the little girls...and he nailed it for those audiences. He's The One to Beat (TM), and we all know it. The second song, "Love Me Tender," wasn't too bad. I'm an Elvis fan, and...I actually thought this was an okay take on it. As soon as he started, I BEGGED the TV not to bring in any other instruments but the piano. Simple and different for such a familiar song. The end was kind of sloppy, and I wanted to slap the little puke for saying he'd never heard the song, before. Next season, we need to have some kind of music history entrance exam. Too many of these idiots have no CLUE what music is all about or who came before them to make this dopey show possible. Archie has a LOT of growing up to do, and I have the feeling that we'll be forced to follow every awkward, gawky moment when he's crowned the next American Idol! He's it, folks. His song choices were PERFECT, and his vocals were solid enough, as usual. No major mistakes, no reason to think his fans will lose fervor at this point in the game. David Archuleta and his one vocal chord will win this season, mark my words. Or I'll wear Julie Heart's best dress to the Idol Chatter Season-in-Review column!

Ya know you’re gonna get the crowd swooning with Archie singing “Stand By Me”. I admit he had a good vocal, but I think it’s funny he still can’t get through a critique without someone mentioning his age. The last bit wasn’t perfect as Simon mentioned, but nobody is going to remember that. Then he goes and sing Elvis and ensures that his older audience will love him too. Every week I hope this kid has a big flub up and forgets his words or just really kills something…but he wont, he’s gonna win this whole thing and everybody knows it.

"Stand By Me?" More like "Walk By Me." If you see him, anywhere, EVER...because he's BORING!!!!!! I was chatting with Clyde for most of the performance, and I STILL know exactly what happened. I'm SO tired of this! WHEN IS THE FINALE?! It wasn't BAD. It was a David. He's SAFE. And let's touch on the fact that he claims he's never done a sappy love ballad before. What? Is he seriously...serious?

"Love Me Tender" was sappy, syrup-y...perfect for David Archuleta. You are through to the next round. SHOCKING!

David Archuleta and Syesha had great nights last night, they both did very well. David Cook wasn’t bad, but he wasn’t the best. At this point if anyone other than Jason goes home…it will be a travesty.

You are WRONG, Julie. Syesha could very well go home, because she's boring. It's probably Jason after the whole lyrics thing, but I wouldn't be shocked or outraged if it's Syesha. Come on, she's been on her way out for over a month, now. Bottom 2 will be David Cook and Syesha, with her going home. Everyone's shocked, Jason's COMPLETELY safe another week, and I just LAUUUUUUUUUUUUGH myself to sleep. There's my big, probably wrong, anarchistic call for the week. Because it DOESN'T MATTER ANYMORE. ARCHIE WINS. END. OF. SEASON.

On that note...I hope that there's an outpouring of unprecedented support for Castro, and that this Tsunami of Voting Power (TM) has only ONE casualty -- the ROCKER. Because, as we were reminded by Seacrest, the rocker was voted off "this week" in a previous season. Because everyone thought he was WICKED safe. (Realistically, I know this probably will not happen. But I am one hopeful Funk. I made a prediction that Syesha would make it to the Top 3, and I'm hoping her "Proud Mary" performance was strong enough to push her through to next week; thusly making it possible to file her in the "Artie Gets One Right" column. That said, my real prediction is that Castro's out, with Syesha in the Bottom 2...while the Unstoppable Davids plow through to next week.)

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS:

Time to get serious. Take a ride with Clyde.

Now that Brooke White is gone...I'm no longer obligated to care about any of the remaining singers. I have no real, emotional attachment to any of them, and, thus, can be completely critical and objective. If I had to pick a favorite, I'd have to go with Jason...but, he's not going to win and I'd only be choosing him because: 1) Brooke is gone, B) Syesha doesn't have a prayer, and 3) I hate the Davids so much! Why be so negative all the time, though...right? Julie Heart tells me I look like I'm going to have a nervous breakdown or something, lately. So...it's time to detach myself from the process, like I should've been doing all along, and make the tough calls.

Syesha goes, Jason goes...and we're down to the Battle of the Davids (TM) for which we've all been (apparently) waiting. Archie is pulling in the tweeners and the mommies and the g-mommies...and, probably, any of the remaining "David Hernandez Voters," if you know what I mean. (Wink, nudge.) David Cook is going to rule young boys, teen girls and college-age girls. All idiots still harboring Daughtry Guilt (TM) are going to vote for him, in a vain attempt to help a "rocker" finally win American Idol.

"I'm sorry, Dave...I'm afraid I can't do that."

Like it or not, America - though I suspect many of you are of the former persuasion - David Archuleta is going to be your. Next. American. Idol. David Cook will fly too close to the sun and what remains of his hair will burn right up. Archie is pretty much it. He was an early frontrunner, he's got Kelly Clarkson's support, and the whole gawky little twit thing that is such a turn-off to me is a huge hit with the Idol voters. You think David Cook has the Daughtry Guilt Vote? Archu-D2 has the Clay Guilt Vote...and there is no way the Claymates are going to let their hero, or his spiritual successor, fall short of winning THIS time around. That's my call - hardly a bold one, but it's pretty much inevitable and I wanted to make it before we get all wrapped up in some crazy "no, I REALLY think Cook can win this" thing.

See you at the York Fair, Mr. Cook.

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
TAGS: American Idol, Clyde Collins, David Archuleta, David Cook, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, predictions

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - From wunderkind to TV mogul: After 2 1/2 years of negotiations, "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane has inked a new overall deal with 20th Century Fox TV that would make him the highest-paid writer-producer working in television.

The pact, which could be worth more than $100 million, will keep MacFarlane at 20th TV through 2012. It covers his services on "Guy" and his other two animated series for 20th TV and Fox -- "American Dad!" and the upcoming "Guy" spinoff "The Cleveland Show" -- as well as his series development, which includes a multicamera comedy with "Guy" writer Gary Janetti. It also encompasses new-media projects related to MacFarlane's TV series as well as DVD and merchandising revenue from them. ("Guy" alone has grown into a $1 billion franchise with red-hot DVD and merchandise sales.)

For more on this article Click Here 

Posted by Matt Bushey at 9:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: American Dad, Family Guy

Ditch the thumb, just use the fingers - we're down to the Top 4!

One by one, the herd is thinning out on the way to the American Idol finale. This week, the remaining contestants took on the songbook of Neil Diamond. Was the bushy-browed wonder's work kind to the 5 best singers in the world?

Well, yes and no. Some good, some bad, some ugly...and, last night, one had to go home.

Last night's show followed the Bottom 2 structure of last week's results show, and, after Jason, Archie and Cook sat down on the big, comfy couch...Syesha and Brooke were left standing in the harsh, bright light of judgement.

They had the lowest vote totals for the week...but which lovely lady was picked-off?

Brooke White has been eliminated from the competition. Her performances of "I'm a Believer" and "I am, I Said" didn't draw enough votes to keep her around for another week...and last week's much talked-about song restart probably didn't help her chances much, either.

FOX43 Idol Expert Artie put Jason and Brooke in his Bottom 2. He's batting .500, there. Mr. Funk also thought Jason would be going home this week. Artie, your thoughts on this week's results?

Funk: Well, that SUCKS. Did she deserve to go this week? Sure. Did I want her to go this week? No. Will I miss her shining, happy/uber-emotionally-crying-but-completely-human persona? Yeah, probably. Will I buy her first album? At least the single! I was disappointed, but I think it was probably about time. Her fanbase clearly was not as dedicated as all of the tween girls who loved hearing Jason Castro singing about his tight jeans. So, farewell, Brooke.

FOX43 Idol Expert Julie Heart ALSO had Jason and Brooke in her Bottom 2. And, like her ol' buddy Artie, she's a total Jason hater...saying he would go home this week. Julie, what do you think of this week's results?

Heart: Brooke and Syesha went head to head for the final spot at safety. As surprised as I am to see Brooke leave, I kind of thought it might happen after last night. She’s had too many mistakes, and Syesha has been strong the last two weeks. I still think Jason Castro should have been the one going home, Brooke is more talented and original. I would much rather see her perform then Syesha as well, but I don’t think the fans could get past Brooke having two bad weeks in a row. Watching her stand next to Syesha, she knew it was her night to go home, and when she had to sing –it was painful to watch. I don’t know if it’s ironic or classic that she messed up her final song and couldn’t even finish. I think if she can get her confidence back and put out a record people would actually buy it though, it would probably be different than what most idols would put out. Other thoughts from last night? Worst. Group. Song. Ever. I don’t know what they were thinking with that, but it was just bad. So cheesy and corny, and many other vomit educing adjectives-even for Idol. They really do like to mess with us on Idol, making Jason Castro go out first and he’s safe…I wonder if he got sympathy for Paula screwing him over last night. I know they drew out David A’s critique, but why was he shocked when he was safe. C’mon now, even he’s gotta know he’s a shoe in to win at this point- and I think Natasha’s got a little Lolita crush on him! David Cook was the third one out of the gate, and they wasted no time telling him he was safe. The call segment of the show was a lot more interesting last night with Simon getting a call from his first kiss. That was actually cool to see his reaction. And, yeah...I’m not really interested in hearing a new song from Neil Diamond…if he’s the one I have to watch singing it!

FOX43 Idol Expert Clyde Collins apparently lost his mind. Not only did he put David Archuleta in his Bottom 2 with Brooke...he said Archie would actually be the one to go home! Clyde, what were you THINKING?!

Collins: I knew. Don't think I didn't know it'd be Brooke. Brooke knew. I knew. It wasn't going to be a David, because those overrated pukes are too popular. It wasn't going to be Jason, because him leaving after Paula Abdul's blatant hatchet-job this week would create an unwanted controversy and make him a martyr. It wasn't going to be Syesha, because she's got momentum (not enough to win) and has come alive in recent weeks. That leaves...Brooke, the unlucky and unloved. It was an easy call, but, as I said in the column after Tuesday's performance show...I'm pushing for complete and total anarchy at this point. The mediocre and predictable ending toward which this season is headed should NOT be allowed to happen. The Davids commit crimes against music on a weekly basis, and no one cares. The ladies are doomed, because it's OBVIOUS that little girls are the ones dominating the voting. How else do you explain Jason Castro?! I like the guy, don't get me wrong...in fact, he's just become my new favorite contestant (bye, Brooke). Those haunting, blue eyes are keeping him around just as much as his mellow voice...if not moreso! I still don't get what little girls see in balding faux-rockers or theatrical dwarves with breath control problems, but, hey...whatever floats your boats. Not up on the trends, don't read the Tiger Beat. Anyway, I'm miserable about Brooke leaving on some level...but okay with it on another. She wasn't going to win the show. She got a stay of execution after last week's screw-up, and I like that she got to go out the way we WANT to remember her - a sobbing, blubbering, sappy mess. I'm sure more than a few of her haters smiled...but plenty more people felt really, really bad for her. I want people feeling unhappy when they watch Idol, at this point...everyone should have to experience the show the way I do, now. It just got a lot less genuine and a lot less interesting. Oh, well...there's always next season! Looking forward to Season 8, people! (Sigh.)

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
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Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 8:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: Artie Funk, Brooke White, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart, Results