American Idol

Kristy Lee Cook couldn’t survive the bottom three for another week. The country-inspired contestant was the latest casualty in American Idol’s seventh season.

American Idol is winding down. Only the best of the best are left standing, fighting for the Season 7 crown.

After a night filled with performances, including One Sweet Day from the Top 7 finalists, a return from Idol alum Elliott Yamin and another performance from celebrity mentor Mariah Carey, the bottom three were announced. After a handful of pretty good to great performances, the bottom three this week were Syesha Mercado, Brooke White and Kristy Lee Cook.

It was a pretty incredible week for Syesha, who was the first of the bottom three to be sent to safety. The three girls also are roommates, making it even more emotional for all of them. And, even though she’s been bouncing back a little bit week after week, this week was the end of the road for Kristy Lee Cook.

While she started strong, Kristy Lee struggled for several weeks after making it into the Top 24. She’s found herself in the bottom three on several Wednesday nights and, this week, even though she did OK, it certainly was her turn to go. I’m glad, though I may be alone on this, that Syesha was able to stick around for another week.

The good news this week is that people actually may be seeing that Carly is the strongest female left in the competition. Because, while I like Brooke, I think there’s no question Carly is the strongest female in this year’s contest. As the Top 6 look ahead to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s week in the guest mentor spotlight, they all need to step it up.

Even though this season is being promoted as the best yet, I’m struggling to really see any one person shine week after week after week. If there is one of those people, that person certainly is David Cook. But, are you ready to give him the crown?

American Idol, Mariah Carey, Kristy Lee Cook, Syesha Mercado, Brooke White

I have set up an online store with official Watching American Idol merchandise. The first T-shirt design is available for sale now. More will be coming in the next couple of days.

Click here to see what items are available for sale.

American Idol, Watching American Idol, Simon Cowell

On Wednesday night’s elimination episode, American Idol alum Kimberley Locke will make her return to the Idol stage. And she’ll be wearing a special dress designed by none other than Project Runway’s most recent winner, Christian Siriano.

Siriano, 21, sailed through most every round of competition to become Runway’s Season 4 winning designer. Since he took the title, he has been busy making appearance around the country. He also recently made an appearance on Bravo’s Make Me A Supermodel.

Locke, who finished in third place — behind winner Ruben Studdard and runner-up Clay Aiken — on Season 2 of Idol, released her latest recording, Based on a True Story, in 2007.

Jennifer Hudson is among a long list of celebrities expected to perform as part of V to the Tenth on April 12 in New Orleans.

You may have heard about the four-letter word Jane Fonda used when promoting a special event last week on the Today show. It turns out that event, V to the Tenth, also will feature Dreamgirl and American Idol alumnus Jennifer Hudson.

Hudson is scheduled to join Fonda and an all-star list of other celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, Jessica Alba, Glenn Close, Sally Field, Rosario Dawson and many, many others for special performances of The Vagina Monologues, written by Eve Ensler.

Ensler started V-Day and a charity to stop violence against women and girls after the success of The Vagina Monologues. Staging of the play took place in about 800 cities around the world as part of the first V-Day event. Now, 10 years later, the charity is presenting the special V to the Tenth at the Superdome in New Orleans. The one-time performance will be April 12.

To find out more about V-Day or V to the Tenth, visit the official V-Day site.

American Idol, The Vagina Monologues, Eve Ensler, Jennifer Hudson

Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell greet the top 50 finalists this season to determine who will make the Top 24.

Hollywood Week was rough for some of the 164 finalists during Season 7 of American Idol. And only 50 contestants remain. Tonight they go one by one up the elevator to see who makes the Top 24. It’s time to see.

7:02 p.m.

The judges finally have made their decisions. And the elevator rides begin …

First up is Ronald Hodge. He gets disappointing news, and he must make the ride down the elevator with a “no.”

Nina Shaw also didn’t make the cut. Nor did a few other girls.

But it’s Carly Smithson’s turn. She got turned away in Season 5 after not having proper work permits. The Irish favorite certainly has had a strong week, plus she’s already had a somewhat established career. (I promise to write more on that later.)

Even though Carly was emotional — tears and emotions were running quickly — but she officially became the first Top 24 finalist in Season 7. And certainly she’ll be a favorite.

7:13 p.m.

David Cook becomes the first guy to make the Top 24. He’s definitely the resident male rocker of this year’s competition. As far as the resident rocker chick? Of course Amanda Overmyer made it. How could she not with so much exposure this season?

After a few more disappointed singers take the ride down the elevator with tears in their eyes, it’s David Archuleta’s turn. The 16-year-old also gets a spot in the Top 24. Grandmas and teenager girls everywhere are celebrating. David’s youth and boyish looks certainly will make him a favorite among these two important groups of voters.

7:22 p.m.

Kristy Lee Cook, another singer who has recorded an album in the past, has been saved this season by her renditions of Amazing Grace. Even after a difficult week in Hollywood, she makes the cut. So, what will her past experience mean for her future in the competition?

More important, will her new friend Brooke White make the cut. She also had a bit of a difficult time making it through Hollywood Week, but her “I’ve-never-seen-a-Rated-R-movie” story certainly makes her an interesting one to watch. Plus, she has a beautiful voice.

After getting tears in her eyes before she even makes it off the elevator on the way to see the judges, it appears the pressure could be too much. Brooke sees this as her last chance to become a real recording artist. The good news, for her and her fans, is she’ll make it.

Danny Noriega had fantastic success during Hollywood Week, helping him make the Top 24 this season on American Idol.

Next up is Danny Noriega, who quickly got a “yes” from the judges. Jason Castro, Luke Menard and Alexandrea Lushington also quickly made the cut.

Ramiele Malubay, another one of this year’s more interesting contestants, also got good news. “Sweet little thing, isn’t she?” Simon said as she left the room.

7:34 p.m.

After a few disappointments, Michael Johns takes his turn in the elevator. Much like Danny, Michael’s true talent really shined throughout Hollywood Week, turning the judges heads. And it paid off with a unanimous “yes.”

Syesha Mercado was up next. One of my definite favorites — and I do mean one of my few favorites — she struggled with losing her voice during Hollywood Week. I’m thrilled she’ll be around to compete in the Top 24.

Even though it wasn’t a unanimous vote, Robbie Carrico joins the Top 24. This former boy band member certainly has changed his look and style, and it’s already clear he’s going for the Bo Bice style that worked so well for the Season 4 runner-up.

7:43 p.m.

Garrett Haley, Kady Malloy, Chikezie Eze, Amy Davis, Alaina Whitaker and Jason Yeager were quick to get a “yes,” taking away valuable spots. Next up was Asia’h Epperson, who lost her father just a couple of days before she went to audition for the show.

The emotional journey paid off for Asia’h, as she, too, will be a competing to try and get America’s votes.

Even without Simon’s vote, David Hernandez got the support of Randy and Paula to send him into the next round.

Next up is another of the season’s early favorites, Josiah Leming. His story — living in his car — got him great camera time. But the road ended for the teenager just before making the Top 24. This denial certainly will have fans across the country disappointed. Even before the live show, Josiah was gaining fans throughout the country. Maybe next time …

Even though I haven’t been the biggest fan of Josiah throughout the season, I can’t help but feel a little bad for the kid. Seeing that much disappointment on his face, tears streaming down his cheek, it’s what makes this show so appealing. This means everything to him.

7:54 p.m.

With just two guys and two girls left to hear the news, there’s only room for one of each.  Colton Berry and Kyle Ensley take a seat side by side, waiting to hear the news. … And Colton makes the cut. But Simon still gives Kyle a pat on the back, saying he believes the singer’s performances during Hollywood Week should have given him a chance in the Top 24.

So, what about the girls?

The final two, making the walk together, are Joanne Borgella, the resident plus-size model, and Cardin McKinney, a professional musician who moved to Nashville to try and push her career to the next level.

After a long day, the two women are equally emotionally drained. The good news goes to Joanne, who I must say is one of my other early favorites. I just love the plus-size model story. Plus, she has an incredible voice.

So, before we go — cue Ferras‘ Hollywood’s Not America — there are several more scenes of rejection from the final cuts before the live shows begin. It looks like the rumored Top 24 that leaked last month was filled with truth.

As we move forward, who are your favorites?

American Idol

It’s the year for a million dreams. And by the end of 2008, Walt Disney World will be helping a few more dreams come true.

An American Idol-themed attraction will open later this year at Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. The attraction will allow park visitors to audition in an Idol-style setting. Contestants then will perform in front of a Disney producer before possibly working with a vocal coach behind-the-scenes and meeting with hair and make-up stylists before performing for an audience and panel of judges.

Participants who do the best throughout the day will compete in a daily grand finale show. The winners then will have a chance to audition at a region Idol audition and get a trip to the front of the lines, avoiding the wait thousands of others endure through the process.

American Idol, Walt Disney World

And … we’re back.

Tonight Ryan Seacrest and the American Idol gang hit Charleston, S.C.

7 p.m.
After the first contestant had to leave the line because his wife’s water broke, Raysharde Henderson enters the room. He thinks he’s Clay Aiken. Of course, he’s not.

“God, it did remind me of Clay Aiken,” Simon said. “… I wouldn’t have been surprised if you would have done a magic trick in between.”

OK, Simon. That definitely was a good one. And I agree.

Deanna Prevatte

Next up is a waitress from Kellie Pickler’s hometown. Deanna Prevatte, 26, has the same silliness as Kellie, but she doesn’t have the pipes — at least not to sing Fancy. But she tried, even though she seemed a bit angry. Enthusiasm was lacking, to say the least.

So, unlike the last three cities, Charleston didn’t get started on a high note — at least not one that was in tune. Back after the commercial …

7:11 p.m.
Here comes a nerdy couple. Guess where they met? The American Idol Web site message boards. Oh, goodness.

Randy Stark and Crystal Ortiz

Randy Stark and Crystal Ortiz probably should keep it to the message boards. Because, they were not good. And Randy probably should stop giving advice on the message boards, as it turns out.

Another couple is up next — this time it’s a brother and sister team. The two are a little outrageous. This is going to be great.

Michelle and Jeffery Lampkin, as it turns out, are really pretty great singers. As a duet, they have something to offer. I’m not sure about solo artists. Together, though, they’re entertaining. Maybe it’s just the enthusiasm. But Jeffery definitely shines.

“Dawg, I thought you were the bomb,” Randy Jackson said. ” … Yes, to Jeffery.”

“I say ‘yes’ to Jeffery, and ‘yes’ to Michelle,” Paula said. And Simon agreed.

“I can’t split you two up,” Simon said.

7:23 p.m.
If they don’t sound bad enough on their own, make them sing a Carrie Underwood song. Yikes.

A captain on her high school dance team, 16-year-old Amy Flynn, is up next. After she’s done preaching abstinence (what’s up with that this season?), Amy takes on Reflections by Christina Aguilera. It’s not perfect, but she does have a sweet, innocent voice in there somewhere.

“I, personally, thought the song was too big for you,” Simon said. “… A lot of people are going to find you annoying, Amy.”

Still, Simon votes “yes.” As does Randy.

7:35 p.m.

London Weidberg

London Weidberg, 24, took care of her father until he died. A professional musician, she put her life and career on hold for her family. Now, she’s singing Billie Holiday to try and win over the judges.

Randy’s not sure it’s the best. Paula liked it. So did Simon, though he thought she was like a million other singers.

Still, it’s “Welcome to Hollywood!” for London.

London was one of 15 contestants to make it through on the first day of auditions in Charleston. Still to come, a baby’s bound to be delivered (they’re really milking that storyline tonight), and more terrible singers. How much longer until Hollywood Week? I’m getting a bit anxious.

DAY 2 — 7:42 p.m.
“I am expecting better today,” Simon said as the judges entered the room.

First up is Air Force pilot Lyndsey Goodman. She already has the military connection going in her favor, but can she sing? She tries with Black Velvet. I’m not sure she’s good enough for Idol. Nor do the judges, which surprised me.

Aretha Codner

She was named after Aretha Franklin, and she claims to be as good as Fantasia. So, why wouldn’t Aretha Codner try to sing some Whitney Houston? Even after messing up the lyrics, she carries on with her audition. It wasn’t good — not as bad as some of the folks entering this room — but it’s not good.

It’s an obvious “no” to Hollywood.

Joshua Boson is worse. His rendition of Jennifer Hudson’s Dreamgirls hit is a disaster. You’re not going to love him.

“I can sing something else,” Joshua proclaims, trying to make a case for himself. “… This show is fake and rigged.”

Of course, the baby is going to make it into the judging room. Even if the military factor didn’t work for Lyndsey, this guy has an almost guaranteed chance of making it before he sings a note. Talk about unfair early exposure.

7:56 p.m.
With the end of Charleston auditions nearing, it’s not looking so good for most of the folks entering the room. They’re mostly exiting without the golden tickets. There are tears. And disappointment.

Oliver Highman

But, as you would expect, Oliver Highman returns to the auditions as a new father. I have been annoyed by this story all night, but I must admit I kind of got chills when Oliver started singing. There are few men in this competition who are memorable. Unfortunately, Oliver isn’t really one of them — no matter how hard the producers pushed his story.

I have to admit I’m shocked he didn’t get through to Hollywood.

Still, somehow, 23 people made it through from Charleston. Next stop, Omaha.

Best of the night: Honestly, there weren’t a lot of memorable auditions from tonight — good or bad. One of the good singers who did stand out was Jeffery Lampkin, who auditioned with his sister Michelle. Still, I don’t think he’s good enough to be the Season 7 winner. From what we saw tonight, I think it’s safe to say the winner likely will not be from the Charleston auditions.

American Idol, Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, Ryan Seacrest

American Idol returned to television Tuesday, but not as many viewers seem to be tuning in this season. Still, Idol remains at the top of the list.

Tuesday’s premiere, which focused on auditions in Philadelphia, had only 33.4 million viewers tuning in, down 4 million viewers from the first show, according to reports from Nielsen Media Research. In a year when a writers strike in Hollywood has been putting a dark cloud over the future of television, Idol still is the most-watched show on television (sports excluded).

In fact, more people tuned in to Tuesday’s episode on Fox than were watching ABC, CBS, NBC and the CW combined. But, considering the writers strike, I thought ratings would be up. Still, 33.4 million is not reason enough to stop producing a show, right?

American Idol

Philadelphia is behind us. Dallas is upon us, and there are bound to be a few scary auditions as Season 7 of American Idol rolls on. Let’s just hope we can pick out a few stars in the Lone Star state.

7:03 p.m.
First up is Jessica Brown, a 24-year-old mother of two. Here’s the back story: She overcame drug abuse, got her life in order and credits it to Carrie Underwood’s Jesus Take the Wheel. Typical of a wannabe Idol winner.

It turns out she’s quite good. Jessica may get lost in the crowd, but for now, she’s standing out.

“Everybody is so emotional right now, because they didn’t think I’d ever, ever be here,” Jessica said after she got her golden ticket.

Paul Stafford

Next up is roller coaster enthusiast Paul Stafford. He, too, was inspired by a former Idol contestant — Elliott Yamin. Unfortunately, his rendition of Wait for You is nowhere near what Elliott has to offer.

Just leave it to Paula to have something positive to say: “That was a very joyful audition,” she said.

7:15 p.m.
The former Idol contestant wannabe roller coaster rolls on. There’s someone who thinks she’s a little like Kelly Clarkson, and someone who looks a lot like Carrie Underwood. That person is 16-year-old Alaina Whitaker. The Tulsa, Okla., native performs. And, yes, she is a great country singer.

The judges are a little tough on Alaina: “I thought it was a good audition,” Simon said. “I don’t think you’re as good as you think you are.”

But she makes it through. And that’s a good thing.

7:27 p.m.
Bruce Dickson has never kissed a girl. But the 19-year-old has good looks and the things it would take to win the hearts of a few girls. His voice is good, but not ready for radio.

“I don’t see you as this R&B, bluesy singer,” Paula said. “I’m not sure who you are as an artist.”

So, no ticket for Bruce. But, oddly enough, plenty of jokes about not being a man because he hasn’t been kissed. Surprising from this family friendly crew.

Pia Easley

Pia Easley is a model, singer and many other things. She has the soul of Nadia Turner, and she certainly could fit into the Idol equation.

“I thought that was a very good audition,” Simon said. “I like you … you’re interesting.”

If Pia makes it far in the competition, she certainly will be an interesting one to watch. Her personality, look and all things about her just scream fan favorite.

7:37 p.m.
Brandon Green is a little strange. He peels his fingernails and collects them in a plastic bag. But the good news is he can sing. His version of Rich Girl by Hall & Oates is interesting at the very least.

Simon, of course, says he’s “forgettable.” But I think he also said something like that to Jon Peter Lewis. And Brandon certainly could be a Jon Peter Lewis-esque character — without the pens in his pocket. I guess a fingernail collection will do.

Kayla Hatfield

Next up is Kayla Hatfield, who seems a little far out there. Her audition is a complete wreck — but Simon says “yes.” What? Seriously? Why are we even entertaining this? Did you not see yourself rolling your eyes, Simon?

Paula gives Kayla a “no.” And Randy plays into the goofiness of it all and sends her to Hollywood. This is why some people hate this show, in case anyone was wondering.

7:50 p.m.
It’s one horrible audition after another.

Then comes in the last audition of the day, Kady Malloy. The 18-year-old does vocal impressions, including Britney Spears and Shakira. Her Britney impersonation actually is quite good.

When Kady has her turn to sing like, well, Kady, she sings a Carrie Underwood tune and sounds like Carrie Underwood. Simon stops her. She tries another and Simon says, “I think, of all the people we’ve seen this year, you’re the best we’ve seen this far.”

I will say Kady is one of the more talented singers, but I think Simon may be sneaking a few sips of whatever Paula has been drinking.

8:01 p.m.
Douglas Davidson is a 28-year-old student from Austin, Texas. He is concerned with ruining his voice, because he read a Christina Aguilera video this one time … Oh, good grief.

When Douglas finishes his warm-up, he does what every voice-saving singer would do — try to sing Bon Jovi. Have I mentioned how painful these auditions can be? Maybe that’s just me. “What the bloody hell was that?” Simon asked. OK, good. Simon is back to himself in day 2.

8:14 p.m.
Kyle Ensley is a junior at Oklahoma State University and a wannabe politician. He went on an all-day campaign to try and get himself in position to be the next American Idol. Simon bought it.

“I thought it was very academic,” Randy said. “… I’m going to say no.”

So, that’s a yes from Simon, a no from Randy and … “What the heck, I say ‘yes,’” Paula said. Again, I must mention this is not a good idea. This marks the second time in Dallas where Simon has used his power for wasting my time.

8:20 p.m.
A not-so-enthusiastic Tammy Tuzinski walks into the room to perform Power of Love by Celine Dion. But wait, instead, she starts singing (and I use that term loosely) If You Ask Me To. Apparently Tammy hasn’t been reading this blog. If she had, she would have known it’s a terrible idea to sing Celine Dion. Ever.

In case anyone else forgot, Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston are out, too. And I don’t care much for former Idol winner songs being repeated in the audition room. You’re just setting yourself up for comparison.

Colton Swon

Colton Swon walks in to sing Boondocks by Little Big Town. The current country hit is a perfect fit for Colton, who also has the look and style that easily could be molded into the American Idol model.

“I thought it was OK, Colton,” Simon said. “I think there are a lot of guys like you singing in bars across America.”

I think Simon is right, but I also think Colton could have what it takes to grow and mature into a possible contestant worth watching if he survives Hollywood Week.

8:29 p.m.
Idol treats us to a lot of singers who aren’t that great, including a woman who used to be a man and a man who dresses like a woman. Just when you thought, “What this show needs is a farmer …” Wait long enough, and Drew Poppelreiter will show up.

“Farmin’, it’s in my blood,” Drew says before singing George Strait’s Check Yes or No. So, will it be yes? Or no?

Simon says “no.” Randy says “yes.” And it’s up to Paula, once again. “You know what, Drew, I’m going to say ‘yes,’” she says.

“Dude, I did it. I freakin’ made it. I’m going to Hollywood,” Drew said. “How about that?”

Next up is Kyle Reinneck, who claims to be a rocker. Of course, nothing says hard-core rocker dude like Kelly Clarkson’s Never Again. Don’t get me wrong — I think we all know Kelly Clarkson can rock — but this is not the kind of song you want to try and sing when you claim you’re hard-core.

“It’s a definite no,” Simon says. Two more of those, and he’s out the door.

8:43 p.m.
After the commercial break, we’re back with a bunch of Kelly Clarkson songs performed by a bunch of people who can’t sing. Actually, it’s just Since You’ve Been Gone. But the many different tones — all way off, of course — make it seem like many different songs.

Nina Shaw

Then there’s Nina Shaw, who also hails from Kelly Clarkson’s hometown, Burleson, Texas. She sings a version of Whitney Houston’s I Turn to You. The judges aren’t completely impressed, but this girl really can sing.

Randy sees something in her, though. So it’s “yes” from him. “No” from Simon. And another “yes” from Paula. It’s on to Hollywood. So, could Nina be just like Kelly Clarkson, a contestant Simon almost overlooked in Season 1? It’s probably a little too soon to tell. I’m not seeing it just yet, though.

8:51 p.m.
After the final commercial break of the night, there’s one more contestant — perhaps the most outrageous of the night. He’s wearing a ridiculous costume, and I just can’t wait to hear what Simon has to say.

Oh, wait. I just realized his feather hat has wings. What?!

Renaldo Lapuz

So, Renaldo Lapuz, 44, starts singing, or “singing,” depending on how you see it. There’s no need to say it, but it’s a horrible screeching of a noise. And the judges encourage it with dancing and continuing to have Renaldo repeat the song. OK, now it’s getting entertaining. Paula is doing some kind of stomp dance … Now that’s entertainment.

“I have a horrible feeling that’s going to be a hit record,” Simon says with a laugh. Watch out, William Hung. Because Simon frequently knows what he’s talking about … I’m not buying it, should Renaldo get some kind of deal.

There may not have been a golden ticket for Renaldo, but 24 people from the two-day Dallas auditions were advanced to the Hollywood rounds. Next stop on the Idol search, San Diego. Until then, keep it here at watchingamericanidol.com to read the latest news and opinions about the show.

ONES TO WATCH: Pia Easley certainly stood out more than any other contestant. She has a look that’s easy to remember, and the girl can sing. That’s what it’s all about, after all. Of the other 23 to make it through to the next round, let’s keep an eye on Colton Swon and Nina Shaw. The finalist I’d like to forget? That would be Kayla Hatfield. She’s just too much for me.

American Idol, Season 7, Kelly Clarkson, Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, Ryan Seacrest

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American Idol, Watching American Idol, Facebook

She’s been known to yell “Touchdown!” when she favors a performance on American Idol. But could it be true Idol judge Paula Abdul may be adding a little entertainment to the Super Bowl halftime show?

Just days before the start of Idol’s seventh season, rumors are swirling about Abdul making an appearance as part of the Super Bowl telecast Feb. 3 on Fox. The network seems to be pretty quiet about the rumor, though it has been announced Tom Petty will be headlining the performance.

The Laker girl-turned-pop star hasn’t been seen on the stage in quite some time, though she apparently also is working on a duet with fellow Idol judge Randy Jackson for an upcoming project. That duet is scheduled to be the first released from Jackson’s Music Club Vol. 1.

Personally, I think it’s been far too long — there just aren’t enough animated cats on TV — since we’ve seen Abdul sing and dance. Her Idol antics just aren’t enough.

American Idol, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson

Less than two weeks after she pleaded no contest to charges of battery of possession of cocaine, Season 5 finalist Jessica Sierra was arrested this weekend in Florida on charges of disorderly intoxication, resisting arrest and violating conditions of her parole. The 22-year-old was being held without bond.

The former American Idol top 10 finalist had entered a rehab facility in July that was supposed to be documented in an upcoming VH1 reality show, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. Her arrest at 2:10 a.m. Saturday at a bar in Ybor City may change plans.

“As the defendant was taken into custody, she attempted to push away and flee the scene,” arresting officers wrote in a report.

Sierra’s previous trouble with the law was resolved Nov. 19 when she was sentenced to 12 months probation and random drug screening. The singer was accused of hitting a man in the head with a glass at a bar in April. At that time, officers also found cocaine in her possession.

Sierra was eliminated from Idol’s fifth season on March 30, 2005 after performing her rendition of the LeAnn Rimes song On the Side of Angels. The finalist also made headlines after it was uncovered she and fellow contestant Nikko Smith had a short relationship. She also was the target of a 59-year-old California man who left more than 40 voicemail messages telling Sierra he loved her and was willing to go to jail for her.

This summer, she appeared as a guest at the second-annual Reality TV Convention in Nashville, Tenn., where she had been working on new music late last year.

There’s no update on Sierra’s appearance on the Dr. Drew show, which also will feature Daniel Baldwin, Jeff Conaway, Andy Dick and Brigitte Nielsen, according to imdb.com.

American Idol, Jessica Sierra, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew

The Pony-Hawk could be making a comeback on stage. Seattle-area native Sanjaya Malakar will be back on stage Dec. 2 as a special guest in two productions of Black Nativity at Seattle’s Intiman Playhouse.

Sanjaya, who was a favorite contestant during American Idol’s sixth season, will perform a solo at the 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 performances. Also performing solos at those performances will be former Idol contestants Karma Johnson and Leah LaBelle (who now goes by Leah Vladowski). All three singers are alumni of the Total Experience Gospel Choir, founded by Pastor Patrinell Wright, who has been musical director of Black Nativity: A Gospel Song Play since it was started in 1998.

LaBelle was a top 12 finalist on Season 3 of Idol. Johnson appeared as a contestant, but she was not a Hollywood finalist during the show’s first season. Sanjaya, of course, was favored by many for his enthusiastic — if not always on key — performances and always talked-about hairstyles on the show.

According to a release, Black Nativity is a “celebration of faith, expressed through exuberant performances of song, story and dance, and reaching audiences of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs.” This year’s Idol connections are certain to draw a much more pop culture-based audience, at least at the Dec. 2 shows. Black Nativity’s 10th anniversary production will begin Nov. 28. Shows continue through Dec. 28 at the Intiman Playhouse, 201 Mercer Street in Seattle Center. Tickets are available by calling (206) 269-1900 or online at www.intiman.org.

Carrie Underwood presents the Breakthrough Artist award to Chris Daughtry.

It was as if American Idol took over the American Music Awards.

From the moment Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks and Season 4 finalist Kellie Pickler took the stage with host Jimmy Kimmel to dance to Soulja Boy, the familiar faces of Idol were a constant presence on the stage and in the audience. In fact, as soon as the Soulja Boy skit was finished, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood took the stage to present the night’s first award, Breakthrough Artist.

Underwood, who won the Breakthrough Artist award last year, handed off the prize to another Idol alum and big winner of the night, Chris Daughtry.

“Well, this all seemed so easy earlier in the day,” Daughtry said as he began his acceptance speech. “First of all, before I go anywhere with this, none of this would be possible without the fans. … You guys make us who we are, and we thank you for that.”

Ryan Seacrest, Jordin Sparks and Kellie Pickler all soon followed up by handing out other awards of the night.

Carrie Underwood returned to the stage to accept the award for Country Female and later the Text-In Award for Favorite artist. She also took home the award in the Country Album category for her debut, Some Hearts.

“Holy cow,” Underwood said after accepting the Text-In award. “That’s all I have to say. Once again, fans, you guys are absolutely amazing.”

Daughtry also took home the award for Pop/Rock Album, which presented a diverse group of nominees.

“Wow, I can’t believe we’re in a category with Justin Timberlake and Linkin Park,” Daughtry said. “I think I’m forgetting people, but I want to make sure we thank the fans, again. Because you guys make this all possible for us.”

Daughtry ended the night with a passionate acoustic performance of the hit single Home. It was arguably the best performance of the song by the band.

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Fresh from a pair of wins at the 41st Country Music Association Awards, Carrie Underwood announced she and Australian sensation Keith Urban will take the road together beginning in January for a 24-city tour.

The Love, Pain & The Whole Crazy Carnival Ride tour, which combines the titles of the latest albums by the artists, has not announced dates. But tickets for the tour are expected to go on sale Dec. 1.

“I’m looking forward to hitting the road with Carrie,” Urban is quoted as saying on Carrie’s official Web site. The Season 4 American Idol winner responded by saying, “I can’t think of a better person to begin 2008 with than Keith.”

Urban, who is married to actress Nicole Kidman, is preparing for the Nov. 20 release of his first greatest hits disc, Keith Urban: Greatest Hits. The singer, known for hits such as Days Go By and You’ll Think of Me, currently is on tour behind his last release, Love, Pain & the Whole Crazy Thing. Since bursting onto the scene in 2000, Urban has sold more than 10 million copies and has performed countless sold-out concerts.

Underwood released her sophomore effort, Carnival Ride, weeks before taking home the CMA Awards for Single of the Year (Before He Cheats) and Female Vocalist of the Year. Carnival Ride debuted at No. 1, selling more than 500,000 copies in its first week. Thanks in part to the early success of the first single, So Small, the first-week sales for Carnival Ride also made it the top-selling album by a female artist in 2007.

As part of the Oklahoma Centennial Celebration, Underwood will perform Nov. 16 alongside more than a dozen other natives of the state including Blake Shelton, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill and the All-American Rejects.

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