American Idol Results Recap, Wednesday, May 22: The DavidC Code: Nice Guys Finish First (and second)

Another Idol's done;
The tour will hit the road.

Time sucked away from us;
but TIVO let us Fast Fo'd.

We watched the "best" of the rest
sometimes we cried..

Puppy's not polished
but those lessons come in time.

Cook is something unpredictable
he delivered every night.
I think he's had the time of his life..

We watched the vommercials
and Group Songs blew our minds.

To hell with rhythm
And Kristi could not keep time.

Tattoos on Carly
but her hubs beat her by a mile.

For what it's worth,
Eze Mac, he made me smile.

Jeff A he was despicable
was banished out of sight.
So little Dave could have the time of his life.

MYchael Johns was just plain lickable
in his JEANS so tight
but I have a husband, and he has a wife...

Yes, Idol may have been predictable
but as it ends tonight.
Thanks for what it's added to our lives.

And yes, I do admit this silly, lightweight, frivolous show does add to our lives.

In a world where children are starving, wars are being fought, genocide is alive (talk about irony) and well, and Mother Nature's fury has humbled us all of late, American Idol, for all its faults, foibles, faux pas', and fumbles, provides a retreat, a haven, a few hours in our week when we can lighten up.

For that, I am appreciative.

But, as tonight promises two hours of "lightening up" - an aural Bataan Death March of guest stars, group numbers, pointless videos, Vommercials, and strolls down Mammory Lane (you know Paula will have the headlights set to bright), how about we get this recap started?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

With last night’s punchdrunk boxing theme behind us, the show kicked off with a spotlight illuminating the white clad figures of Archuangel and David C, Patron Saint of Horny Women. As the camera circled around them, Ryan could be heard speaking of "the closest competition" Idol has ever seen.

He waxed crapsodic about "two ordinary people achieving the extraordinary." Then he asked, "What does it look like when the #1 show in the country reaches its critical mass?"

Cue the lights, and the 7,000 screaming fans packed into the Nokia because THIS. IS. AMERICAN. IDOL. AND. THEY. GOT. TICKETS. AND. YOU. DIDN’T.

One more graphic trip down the neon jetway. One more tab of "E" slipped to the Girlbot by the Boybot, and one more trip down the center stairs for Ryan, again decked out in a three piece suit, ready to greet the throng.

Well, we certainly did it up right in terms of votes last night. According to the accounting firm of Seacrest & Lythgoe, "If every single person in Canada, Spain, Ireland, and Australia voted last night, it still would not have matched what you did."

Over 97,500,000 votes called and texted in. (Way to go Shawn!) That obliterated the former record for AI voting by over 23 million.

And it breaks down this way: David got 56% of the vote. David got 44% of the vote.

Wow, and I thought we were going to have to wait another two hours for the results!

Oh ... wait...

A hello to the judges revealed Randy either dressed by the Coke Brothers, or channeling the Four Tops in his bright red with white accents blazer, neck scarf (how very Austin Powers, baybay), and a pocket tablecloth.

Paula didn’t disappoint with her hair piled high, and her cleavage piled low in a spaghetti strap red gown.

Simon, who appeared to be caught like a deer in Paula’s headlights as he was introduced, stuck with last night’s ensemble of chest hair, a white shirt, and a black blazer.

Ryan then gave a shout out to the hosts in the contestants' hometowns, live on the video screens. Mikalah Gordon (season 4), all grown up in a very form fitting gold lame’ number, her hair long and sleek, was holding down the fort in Kansas City, Missouri where the message was "DAVID COOK ROCKS!" (Props to Gordon – very poised and articulate, especially considering the deafening roar she was having to talk over).

Matt Rogers (season 3) was enjoying the "ultimate pep rally" in Salt Lake City, Utah where every girl with blond hair was apparently required to turn out. (Did you know he is the host of Really Big Things on The Discovery Channel?)

Back in the Nokia, Ryan intro’d the first GROUP SONG, made so much more interesting by the absence of the Idol Tabernacle Choir, and the addition of the So You Think You Can Dance stars for this season.

While the Top 12 finalists concentrated on the side to side shuffle, and swinging their pendulum-like left arm in time to Get Ready, the SYTYCD crew worked the side stages with tight moves, exciting choreography.

The kids actually sounded pretty great on this number - good for them. All decked out in white, did you catch that Syesha was the only female to opt for the hot pants, while Amanda, Brooke, Rami, Carly, and Kristi kept their gams under wraps?

The stage ignited on the final note, left arms were frozen in the air, and off we went to our first break...

We returned to David C opening the show back up with Hero, looking hot in JEANS, a gray shirt, and black leather jacket. He was quickly joined by Puppy, dressed in a gray button UP and were those black leather pants?!? If not, they sure were shiny.

The song moved on and Big D owned it. It only served to highlight their main difference. Puppy may have a beautiful soul, but David has SOUL.

Ryan then joined the guys to intro the most blatant pimping since, well, you know...

Under the guise of introducing the "spiritual advisor" for the show, it was all a big movie promo for Mike Myers June 20 release, The Love Guru. In it, he plays Guru Pitka, who is essentially Austin Powers in a sherwani.

The upshot, both Davids got to see an exclusive private screening of the film, then they got to "meet" with Guru Pitka. This is where things got a little long, and for young David, a little wrong.

They walked in to find Pitka playing Sitar Hero (the best joke of the whole gag aside from his trademark greeting of ‘Mariska Hargitay’). His advice to older David? "It’s not the 90s ... You’re on TV for God’s sake, SHAVE."

For younger David? "You’re so young and yet soon you’ll have huge success, also soon you’ll have hair in weird and wonderful places. Don’t tug at it. You might make a Boom Boom in your Pull-ups."

Cut to David Cook looking visibly uncomfortable for his young friend. And to Puppy who looked mortified at the masturbation reference.

Note to Nigel. That was just wrong in so many ways. I may not prefer the kid on my iPod, but as a parent? Someone needs to take you and the production crew out behind the woodshed and do a little beating – and not the Boom Boom kind.

The bit got even longer when back on stage, Myers, dressed as Pitka navigated out on a pillow designed by the Scooter Store’s India outpost.

Words to the judges...

Randy, "You are my dawg."

Paula: "I love you."

Simon: "I love you even more."

His predictions for the night? AI will be won by a "USA citizen" and will be named "David."

Oh, and that he would "Shamelessly promote The Love Guru opening June 20."

After he left, Ryan tried to drive the motorized pillow and damn near ran off the stage. THAT was funny.

He then welcomed back Syesha to sing Waiting For You. She looked amazing in her pewter criss cross dress – she has to have been the best dressed contestant EVER.

As she sang, she was quickly joined by special guest Seal. They grooved together, and she was totally comfortable performing with such a major star. She looked happy and comfortable singing with him, but don’t worry, Frau Klum, Syesha is happily engaged, and well, you did go on national TV and tell Oprah he is hung like a bull. What guy would give up a Victoria’s Secret model who publicly praises his ability to fill out some bike shorts?

AFTER. THE. BREAK, we came back to Ryan introducing Jason Castro and His Stool, back to reprise Hallelujah.

OK – I know I slammed do-overs last night, but I’ll take this one. With the pressure off, free to just sing, he totally enjoyed the moment, and I think this may have been even better than the first time around. Loved it – even that final breathy note.

As he sauntered off, the big screen filled with a Ford Vommercial that didn’t make me want to revisit my dinner. Set to Let The Good Times Roll, it was simply a montage of snips and clips, goofs, outtakes, and photo sessions of all the finalists. Lots of laughs, but the best moment was David C emerging onto the set from a car in his lime green matador get-up. The expression on his face said EVERYTHING.

Back on stage, Ryan was joined by the two finalists who both seemed completely surprised when he handed them the keys to their new Ford Escape Hybrids. Haven’t they ever seen this show? (Makes those green satin bull fighter pants worth it, huh David?)

Things moved on to the six female finalists doing a Donna Summer medley, starting with She Works Hard For The Money. The girls were dressed in all manner of red satins, dresses, pants, sequins, fringe. The only thing I truly hated was Carly’s choice of black hose with her red dress.

Did anyone else think Amanda was phoning it in? In fact, she looked pissed the whole time, and slurred really badly.

As the SYTYCD dudes freestyled, the girls welcomed Donna Summer to the stage to sing her new song Stamp Your Feet. Donna’s still got it. She looked beautiful in a black suit with a white sparkly shirt underneath, and sounded even better. Still strong, still sassy.

The girls were pretty solid on back-up, but once again, the dancers stole the show. How does one spin on their head without snapping their neck like a twig?

They finally segued into Last Dance, and she handed the blinged out mic to Syesha to duet with her.

The camera then caught Paula up and about, her boys threatening to pop out for one last dance of their own.

Another break and Carly & Mychael came out to sing The Letter. Carly managed to dance around despite the fact she was wearing a dress made of river rocks, Mychael was lowkey in all black. They sounded pretty amazing together – I would hope they duet on the tour.

Moving on... so much time to fill, so little true content to fill it with...

Ryan then intro’d Jimmy Kimmel as the man to describe Simon Cowell as having "nipples the size of pepper mills."

You know, that’s fine for Jimmy’s show at midnight, and my daughters are old enough to have laughed at the remark, but this is a family show, or so they like to keep touting it.

Jimmy wasted time by starting with a not-very-funny joke at Sanjaya’s expense, moved on to comparing Ryan without the tan, white teeth, and "Lee Press-on nails" to Chris Sligh, ripped on Paula for her pre-critique (pretique?) of several weeks back, and referred to Simon’s parents as Rosemary and Satan Cowell.

Maybe I was getting antsy already, but it just wasn’t that funny. Yes, the snips of Simon’s insults set to Pop Goes The Weasel was cute, but come on. If we’re going to talk about pepper grinder nipples, I would have rather Jimmy rolled the video of I’m F*cking Ben Affleck. Now THAT was funny.

It was then time to rock out with the six boys, staring with Summer of ’69, on which David Hernandez was woefully out of tune. Then the two Davids walked down the stairs like the Prom King & King to sing Heaven.

It was at this point that I started shouting for Bryan Adams to appear. And he did, basically sprinting down the stairs with his guitar to make his intro to I Thought I’d Seen Everything.

You know, he’s aging well – a bit scruffily, and perhaps a hint of Botox around the eyes, but not too bad at all. And he still sounds good enough to make my inner 17 year old go weak. Sue me, 1984 was the time of my life.

Coming back from the break, Jordin Sparks promoted, via taped video, the latest addition to the Disney Theme Parks – the American Idol Experience, coming this summer. I could not have cared less about this, because what came next made me feel as excited as being on Space Mountain...

David Cook singing Sharp Dressed Man with ZZ Top!. I know I looked like someone had just goosed me – the smile on my face was THAT big. And just as I was completely soaking in the moment, Culley broke my happy reverie with, "I’m assuming the Amish men serve some purpose?"

Insert huge belly laugh, and the sound of my bones decaying as I immediately felt old.

David was in his element, completely at ease, loving the moment, and not to brag on my own precap, but he was having the time of his life.

The Children of the Corny, not so much. They seemed almost scared, but then again, they probably thought the Amish guys were weird, too.

Loved David’s "duck dance" in the middle of the song. Was anyone else’s face hurting by the end of the song?

After it ended, Ryan checked in with Mikalah in KCMO.  She had corralled David C’s music teacher who shouted, I feel good!" and sent the message to her former charge, "The flowers have faded, but I’ll have these memories forever."

Brooke then got another moment in the sun with her duet partner, Graham Nash, to sing Teach Your Children. They faced each other on stools with their guitars, and she looked lovely in her deep sapphire gown, although would it kill the girl to wear a pair of shoes? Seeing the bottom of her dirty foot killed the look.

The song was nicely done for a waste of time. Sure, a tad boring, but the girl can sing.

During the next commercial break came the BEST. MOMENT. EVER.

David Cook recreating the scene in Risky Business where Tom Cruise became a superstar. Yes, THAT one.

With Old Time Rock n Roll playing, he slid out in an oxford, socks, and underwear, and every move was perfect. Yes, it was a commercial for Guitar Hero, so he was jamming on one, but he nailed everything. The slide, the knee drop, the bounce on the couch, the leg wiggle, even the silhouetted dive seen through the window.

So nice, we had to watch it twice. OK, ok, three times.

Back in the Nokia, the tweenies got their Jonas on. The Jonas Brothers, that is, singing their hit, SOS. I hope little David was watching from the wings – this is how good teen boys can perform. It’s not impossible to be 17 and work a crowd, sell a song, remember a lyric.

If pushed for a favorite, I like Joe, the one in the middle. You know, the Davy Jones working the tambourine. It takes a seriously cute guy to be able to make tight gray satin work.

The corncobs down front perked up at this point.

When they finished, Ryan was standing on the stage with an older woman, kidnapped from the audience – she was still holding her purse like she was waiting for a bus – just so he could make fun of her age vs. the Jonas Brothers. Loved how she wouldn’t give him the satisfaction, saying she would "love" to get one of their CDs.

Now, as no burrito is complete without a heaping helping of bloat inducing grease, Ryan rolled a video of some of the worst Idol auditions.

We lisped up "the frosty mountain" with Jared Wiley; revisited Alexis Cohen and her full body glitter; pleaded with James Lewis to Let My Eardrums Go; and, of course, enjoyed some brotherhood with human parade float, Renaldo Lapuz, who then magically appeared in all his angelic glory to sing his song, I Am Your Brother, accompanied by the USC marching band and cheerleaders who paraded down the aisles and onto the stage.

Anyone else notice that the cheerleaders’ moves weren’t any better than the kids’ in those Group Songs?

Paula somehow managed to get up on stage in that ultra tight gown and as she danced, her boys were threatening to jump ship.

Another break and Ryan introduced One Republic to sing Apologize. I love the song, but admit, I had no idea what the guys looked like. So Kendall pretty much spoke for me, too, when she said of the lead, "He’s white?"

The lead singer, who looked like he was constantly fighting to stay on the piano bench, was then joined on stage by Puppy. As he started singing I TOTALLY saw him look at the teleprompter for the words. UGH.

As the song moved on, I do believe his eye squints beat the voting record. Surely it was more than 97,500,000?

And before you Archulovers get started again – I don’t hate him. I just do not enjoy watching him try to perform. Maybe in a few years, but not now.

Ryan then checked in with Matt in SLC who was flanked by Puppy’s grandfathers. Paternal side, "Wonderful, wonderful opportunity. Very proud of my grandson, very proud of my son." Maternal side (young lady helped translate): the talent comes from "both sides of the family."

Ryan then welcomed Jordan Sparks, who was dressed as a Ferrero Roche truffle. That was one seriously gold party dress.

Singing One Step At A Time, she was in fine voice, and worked the entire stage, even gracing the Corncobs with a few hand touches. I still love her smile, her confidence, and the fact that she isn’t a size Mary Kate.

I was really starting to get bored at this point, so I was very happy to sit back and enjoy a truly stupid, but truly funny splicing together of vintage Gladys Knight footage with "Pips auditioners" from 1972.

Those Pips were none other than Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey, Jr. They were hilarious, working every trademark Pip move, adding some of their own, and using their comic genius to full advantage.

Ben was the goober Pip, Black, the Earnest Pip, Downey, the cool Pip. Their faces were priceless as they backed up Gladys. Along the way, Jack’s pants threatened to come down, then Downey disappeared off stage at which point Black went off to look for him leaving a happy to solo Stiller to work it. Suddenly Black came tumbling back out, his pants around his knees, and Downey reappeared, too.

OK, it was filler, but it was pretty damned funny filler, and you can download the video at iTunes, with the money going to charity.

The next special guest really picked thing up (including the curtains from her dressing room which were caught around her arms). Carrie Underwood, looking amazing in what amounted to a bedazzled cream colored blazer and heels, tore it up on her tune Last Name.

She completely owned that stage. Amazing what a couple years of polish will do in terms of performance and commanding an audience. She deserves everything she has gotten.

Except that camera angle.

Between the shortness of the blazer and the low angle of the camera, we were about to know more than just her Last Name.

Another break and Ryan welcomed back the 12 finalists for one last medley, this time George Michael songs. The girls started out with Faith, and I’ll be the one to say it. Overmyer was over the limit. She was either drunk, stoned, or had been sneaking sips from Paula’s cauldron.

The guys, dressed in dark suits, took over for Father Figure – loved how David Hernandez was gifted with the line about being "bold and naked." They quickly moved into Freedom – forgot how much I enjoyed Eze’s smile and energy – and then, they welcomed George Michael down the stairs.

Paula was up and gyrating for him.

He looked good in a dark suit, aviator shades, and an inner ear monitor which kept trying to become an outer ear monitor. The lights went low and he sang Praying For Time. His voice is as solid as ever, maybe even better as it has matured.

One thing that even the shades could not hide though is that he rivals Puppy for singing in the dark. His eyes were closed the entire time. WWALWD?

He did open them, however, to receive a standing ovation from all three judges and promote his first American tour in 17 years.

One more break, and finale, oops, finally, it was time for the results.

With both Davids beside him, Ryan asked the judges for their final thoughts.

Randy offered that it has been a "great, great season 7." "So glad it’s you two dudes standing there" and "You’re both winners."

Paula (and I rewound to make sure I got this right): "I’m honored and proud of you. It’s the beginning of the start of the destiny of your career."

(I guess Amanda left something in the pot.)

Simon said, "I want to congratulate both of you." Upon rewatching the show last night "it wasn’t so clear cut as we called it, but David, (directed at Cook) I will take this opportunity to apologize. I think I was verging on disrespectful with you." (David looked a tad confused.) "You’re both ‘triers’" And he then finished with, "For the first time ever, I don’t really care who wins. I think you’re both terrific."

And he seemed completely sincere.

And with that, Ryan asked Edward Boddington, the Chairman of Telescope (Vote Management Company) to come out with the verified result. He handed the envelope to Ryan.

The guys had an arm around each other as Ryan spoke, "Ladies and gentlemen, David & David, the winner, by 12 million votes, of American Idol 2008 is....

And then he said the words I truly did not think we would hear.

DAVID COOK.

Yes, the over-the-hill gang managed to beat the Tween Brigade, and crown the most deserving, versatile, interesting, arena ready contestant of this (and most) seasons.

He moved quickly to embrace little David, and then the camera cut to Simon who was positively glowing.

As Ryan began to speak to Cook, David, face in his hands, was completely overwhelmed. And as his tears came, so did mine.

In a world where nice guys do often finish last, here we were, watching a truly nice guy not only finish first, but second, too.

He then managed to address the crowd, "I started this season, much to Simon’s chagrin, as the Word Nerd, and I am totally at a loss for words. This is the ... this is amazing. Thank you."

He fell into his Mom’s embrace and his brother and father circled round as well. David shouted props to the brother, "This is all your fault" because bro dragged him to the Omaha auditions as his support. David decided to audition, too, and look where that one on-a-whim decision brought him.

Ryan then intro’d the winning song, called Time of My Life – and for the record, my Time of YOUR Life precap was written and filed HOURS ago. I love when things work out like they were "meant to be".

With sparks showering from the ceiling, he sang his first single for the world. And while I know it won’t be anything like the album he puts out, it doesn’t matter. This, THIS is the guy who could sing the phone book.

He worked his way out to the stage behind the judges, and as the confetti rained down, embraced Puppy while he finished the song.

And my eyes are wet again just typing about it.

Which brings me back to the last lines of the precap parody:

Yes, Idol may have been predictable
but as it ends tonight.
Thanks for what it's added to our lives.

This show still has the ability to make us care, make us rant, make us cry. And I know that come December, I will be counting down the days till we meet again to laugh at the awful, embrace the new, poke fun at the Paula, and help make another dream, in this screwed up, weary world, come true.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you to everyone who has made the blog their home for American Idol recaps the past five months. To the DGMS regulars – your comments about the shows make me laugh more than you know. To those who found their way here for the recaps, I truly hope you’ll stick around in the off season. Like Ryan says, "We’re one big family."

Dear God. Did I just quote Ryan Seacrest? Man, I need some sleep...

Comments

[Krista in CA]

My local newspaper ran your AP article, and I was hugely amused by your candor.
THANK GOD FOR DAVID COOK.
I started rooting from him at his first audition, but it wasn't love until he tore the house down on "Billie Jean." I've watched every season of American Idol, but this is the first season I've voted!
Even more amazing was my shock and glee when I flew out to Missouri to visit the college I'll be attending in the fall, only to find out that IT'S DAVID COOK'S ALMA MATER. And his brother goes there now. Smile.
At any rate, this was definitely the best American Idol recap I've ever read-I missed the finale because I had to work, so I've been catching snips of it on YouTube, but reading this made me feel that I didn't miss a beat.
Thank you!

[Liz]

Any chance we can get "Cougars 4 Cook" tee shirts? I'm definitely one!

[Kristi in NC]

Whew, finally caught up on the comments. We had a very busy day yesterday. Does anyone know what Gayla was talking about a shot of olive oil being good for?

Oh yea, and GO Cookie GO! I couldn't have been happier with the results show. I guess I am a full fledged member of the cougar club. I keep re-watching Cookie's GH commercial. Thank you thank you thank you Linda for posting it! This is why we LOVE you! (Well, one reason anyway)

[Judy (Cookie's Sugarmama)]

The first time I saw David Cook, I thought "What is such a nice face doing under that rooster hair!" After the stylists fixed it...I knew he was sex incarnate. His voice caught my ears in the audition, his obviously cluelessness about how sexy he is and actually BEING so sexy caught my imagination and, then his honest face, mind and heart went in for the kill. I'm totally hooked. I'll miss seeing him every week SO much. I hope this guy ends up with 200 Grammys and in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame because I can't think of ONE person who has and is that deserves it more heart-wise and talent wise. I LOVE him, so shoot me.

[Alison in Bellevue, WA]

Loved this recap of the show... just now found DGMS when searching ANYTHING related to DC after last night's amazing finale. So crazy for me as I have NEVER been into American Idol - but this year - - Mr. Cook stole the show and my adoration.

I wasn't able to watch the show "live" as I was flying home during the broadcast. I refused to look at any TV screen at the airport, didn't want the radio on in the cab, wanted to sit and watch my recording of the finale at home... (sans husband who was also out of town.) I knew I was going to watch "Archie" (as DC calls him) be announced the winner. It was a given but I needed to see it for myself without hearing someone announce it on TV or the radio.

So I get home at 11PM and crank up the recorded program. I see David C and once again swoon. Is he really that good looking?... umm - maybe - but he has a mixture of sex appeal and that voice and a pretty darn good look that make me melt. My husband jokingly refers to him as my boyfriend. How many others of you out there have a husband who says the same? : ) OK - I digress...

I watch about as much as I can of the performances, but keep fast forwarding through it all (except for the Risky Business spoof and ZZ top performance of course) to get to the point where they will crown Puppy. (Is that what you all call him?) Anyway - Ryan does his big build up with the guy from the accounting firm or whatever - and then he is about to make the announcement and I get as far as... "as the winner for Am. Idol 2008 is David and a slight hint of a "Ka" sound and my recording ends. 2 hours exactly are up... G.D. Comcast!!! Holy crap! Was he saying David Cook??? Did my boyfriend win??? Oh my god, Oh my god - - Oh my god! I raced to my office and jumped on You Tube for the video of the finale. I found one of the final announcement and held my breath until I heard the actual pronouncement... the winner is David Cook!!!! I couldn't breathe for about 10 seconds and then burst into tears. Wow... so incredible - I couldn't believe it. Did they really say D.C. was the winner? I wanted to call my husband by it was o'dark-thirty where he was. I had to bask in David's win all by myself. My dogs just didn't get why I was crying all over them. So I went to bed with a big smile on my face... happy that my boyfriend had won and looking forward to the day I could buy his first album.

[Leonardo]

You voted 400 and how many times? Oh my god, how pathetic is that? Get a life!

[Juan Diego]

Thanks for this great recap! I was laughing out loud while reading this blog entry! One of the few that have done that. You're wonderful!

[Lori in Texas]

LMFAO, Mom of 5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Mom of 5]

I watched it back when the guys won their car, and David A.'s dad most distinctly said, "Mwahahahaha! All of my evil machinations are now complete!" ;-)

[Robert Clark]

Thanks for all the hard work you do to entertain us. I had to say thanks for all the joy you have brought me, sharing your words of wisdom. I will continue to come back to bring a smile to my face.
Bobo

[Bobbsey re Carly's tights]

Someone in my office brought this subject up so I'll put the question out there... It did stand out to me last night that Carly was wearing black tights every time she came out. Is it possible that she has tatts on her legs? Can't remember ever seeing her bare-legged. Anyone know? Not that it takes away from her glorious singing. While watching her last night I kept exclaiming how much I had missed her. Went to Itunes and downloaded "Here you come again" and "Without YOu" before the tunes were pulled. Already had all the ones I wanted from David Cook. AI and Itunes got at least ten bucks of downloads from my household.

[Charles]

Thanks for another season of recaps, Linda. I enjoyed them and the people I share them with do to.

Congrats to Cookie!

[Doodles]

Thank God for your awesome recaps Linda because my Tivo shut off at 10 PM, (switching to Boston Legal) and all I heard when I watched the show when I got home from my daughter's soccer training was
" and the winner of A.I. is....." NOTHING, Tivo shut off!! I was screaming! Does anyone have any taped footage of the announcement/reactions/final performance????
If so, PLEASE share!
Thanks again!
Debbie, NJ

[Bobbsey]

Great recap Linda! And thanks for being the morning lift for my mind on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Loved, loved, loved the finale last night! Didn't like the Kimmel and Mike Meyers bits, but appreciated the moments of humor that were gleaned from them (like the shaving cream on DC) Bryan Adams, George Michael, Donna Summer and SEAL (woo hoo!!!) Was so happy that DC won! Let's hear it for the good guys!!! I'm just humming along today - so pleased with yesterday's results and how it played out.

[Gayla to to OhioAttorney]

Yeah, me too! Chickeze has talent. It was just he waited too long to sprout and then since he is different, not so mainstream, he didn't get a chance to peak like some of the others did. I am glad he is going to be in the tour because he *IS* an entertainer. I hope they give him lots of funked-out numbers to play with. I also like Jason. I believe there are listeners out there for all the kids that were on this year - well maybe not for Ramiele. She just never bloomed any more than her audition. Not sure what happened with her. She was never able to hit a homerun. I thought she was one of the ones with potential at the beginning but she just never materialized. Oh well.

I think it is fun to promte the "crazies" for the comedy effect. Remember the two kids last year - they became friends in line @ auditions. One was the one that Simon called a bush baby. Anyway, those two will have the memories of their tiny moment of stardom for the rest of their lives. If a contestant takes themselves too seriously, then it makes such a sad time for them. LIke the kid that is trying to sue FOX because Simon said he should cover AI for their FOX affiliate. That's sad because he thinks he has talent. But Renaldo, he is just campy. I appreciate these people because they end up becoming Robin Williams, Chris Farley, John Belushi, David Spade. They become our future comediennes. Anyway, I am glad they get their chances.

OMG, do you remember the "like a virgin" guy that had safety pins holding his jeans together? YIKES!!! ;)

[OhioAttorney]

I like Chickeze...and was sorry to see him go so early in the competition.

[Vickie to Linda and all]

Linda-I've been so busy the last couple of weeks, I haven't had much time to comment. I only caught bits of Tuesday night's AI and completely missed the finale last night. I had to log on today just to find out who won! YIPPEE DC!!

Thank you so much for all your hard work with the recaps, I wasn't worried a bit last night about missing the show because I knew I would get everything I needed from your blog today!

Now we're off to a huge horse show where my 13 yr. old son and his horse will be trying their hardest to qualify for the youth world championships. Everybody keep their fingers crossed for us (prayers help too!) I'll look forward to checking back in Monday or Tuesday.

Here's wishing everyone here at the DGMS family a safe and wonderfuly holiday weekend!

[Tamara]

BTW one more thing I forgot to comment on:
I Am Your Brother guy Reynaldo.
With the USC Marching band and now everyone knowing his song.

This is exactly why all the crazy, really bad people come to try out.
Just as the good singers aspire to be David Cook, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson or Jordin Sparks, the bad ones aspire to be William Hung or Reynoldo or all the other bad but famous people.

Though the competition is really about finding a good singer, theres also a Sub Competition about being the worst AND getting famous for being the worst.

William Hung has recorded 3 albums.
I have no idea who is buying them, but hes still around.
So the really bad people who try out for Idol are there for a reason as well.

[Tamara]

I totally agree Linda, Amanda looked pissed, annoyed, and bored.
Kind of like how Britney looked in her MTV Award performance, like she was not all there and not giving it her all.
She does not deserve to be there, with that kind of attitude.
I am glad she is not on the tour.

Someone else not on the tour that I am NOT glad about is David Hernandez.
He really is great, and I love when he stylizes songs.
I dont care if hes an ex male stripper, gay or not, I think hes good and I wish he would have gone farther.

If a rocker were going to win this year, much as I think David Cook is great, I would rather go and see Michael Johns perform any day.

His duet with Carly for The Letter was amazing.
They complimented each other real well.
I bet they do that song on the tour.
I saw her interviewed and she said she and Michael became like best friends during the season.

Brooke was totally in her element last night with that Crosby Stills Nash song. I really hope she does well. Shes unique.

Forgetable Idols who we will most likely never hear from again:
Kristy Lee Cook
Ramiele
Chickeze
Jason Castro

Idols who should use this to springboard careers:
Syesha
Carly
Michael Johns
David Hernandez
Brooke
David Archuleta

Amanda does not even make this list at all bc she just does not even deserve to be there with her sour I'm Better Than This attitude.

Watching Mikalah Gordon last night, or if you have ever seen Justin Guarini and Kimberly Caldwell on TV Guide Channel on their post Idol shows, singing is not the only career path.
Hosting is an option as well.

[Another Lori in TX]

Hi Linda,

Hope you get some rest tonight and recuperate from the last 5 months of re-crapping!

Thanks so much for your humor and talent with the written word! I'm always telling my husband or kids about something you wrote. I read every day whether it's AI time or not, so keep it up.

I too cried when DC won - I was SO excited that America got it right. In fact, my husband even watched, and he NEVER does. I think the right D won, and he should be successful immediately.

Thanks again for being a fun and often thought-provoking part of my day.

[Gayla to to Mary Lou]

You know, the Renaldo Lapuz bit was so funny, especially seeing the incredible USC Marching Band. (I cannot tell you how I dreamed as a child about being a member of that Band! I watched every Rose Bowl halftime show and pretended to be the drum major - those were the days!)

Each year they bring back the one character that makes the most out of their horrendous audition...One year was the Clay Aiken look-alike...then there was William Hung...and what about the Big Bird "girl" (who was hardly a girl). I like that these people who have no chance in hell of becoming famous, actually get their 15 minutes of fame. I am glad that they gave this year's 15 minutes to Renaldo! I did find it somewhat pitiful that Paula had to stumble up on the stage to disrupt his moment though.

I swear with each post, I remember something else that stood out in my mind, all the little nusances of the show. Things that were such minutae that in the grand scheme of things won't make a difference but to me made last night's show more memorable.

[RBlues]

Random Thoughts:

I also noticed Amanda disappear from the group number and I found myself wondering if they pulled her or if she bolted! She looked miserable.

Boy, they didn't give you much time to focus on the SYTYCDancers but I did recognize Dominic, Hok, and Lauren--all from last year. Anybody know who else was there?

They did show The Archuleta's after Cookie's win and they were standind, smiling and clapping. They know Puppy's gonna do incredibly well regardless

[Valerie]

Hmm a black Captain Kangaroo...weird. That's not how I remember him.
David A. and Risky Business..WTF?
And him looking at the teleprompter to sing Apologize? Who in the free world can't sing that song. I'm guessing Daddy Jeff only lets him listen to the Mormon Taberbacle Choir?
Yes I think Salt Lake City is the capitol of the screeming long blonde haired girls that all look exactly the same. Kind of like a 'tweeny/teeny' Stepford Wives. I think me and my daughter may be the only brunettes in the state. JK
Used to LOVE George Michael and then was let down when he came out. Of course should of seen that coming after those short shorts in "Wake Me Up Before You Go Go". Oh well.
And lastly. THANK YOU Linda. Love all of your thoughts. Been here a long time. Get my DGMS fix every morning when I get to work. Looking forward to tomorrow!

[Debbie]

When ZZ Top and DC performed together my dh and I looked at each other and said "yeah!"
Greatest moment in AI history.
Oh, BTW...I won the contest in our local paper. I've been in first place for 3 weeks by 1 point! I hope to find out today what my prize is...I'll let you know.

[Mary Lou in FL]

I lOVE that David Cook won!

I LOVE the performers last night (at least most of them).

And my 10 year old and I both LOVED Renaldo Lapuz and "I am your Brother"! I know we are in the minority here, but he is just such fun, we both got up to sing and dance with him....the song is not that hard!

I DID NOT love Mike Myers.

I DID NOT love Jimmy Kimmel, he was much funnier the first time.

And the ending was heart felt and wonderful! YEAH, DAVID COOK!!!

[Gayla to ArizonaDave]

The bit with Mike Myers trying to shave DC was funny yes, but I think what made it so funny is DA's timing! MM put the shave cream on DC's face and a glob of it start to fall, and DA without missing a beat (what couldn't have been more than 1/2 a second) caught it. I think that is what made it all so funny because that is when DC cracked up. You can't rehearse something that perfect. I also have to admit, I felt sorry for DA regarding the "Boom Boom" comment, but I couldn't help laughing at his facial reactions because you just KNEW he had no f*ing idea what was just said. Then when Ryan asked him about his experience with Myers, he said it was funny though he didn't understand any of it! I rolled with hysterical laughter because it was just too priceless. It was like DA has turned into a laughing bobblehead (no disrepect intended) and has learned how to laugh at the appropriate time without understanding any of the punchlines. GOd help this little boy! He is precious but he desperately needs some guidance that doesn't have a DNA connection to him. Guru Pitka session was a shameless plug of the movie but I truly think that DC enjoyed it because he got the gags. His reactions was adorable. He has the most adorable smile - Sexy and yet boyish at the same time. I just hope Kimberly Cauldwell does not corrupt him. She and Trenyce weren't known for being good girls back in Season 2. Apparently the two of them were back and forth with Cory Clark. I remember when Trenyce would be getting ready for her performance and would drink a shot of olive oil, a friend of mine said something about what else drinking olive oil was good for. I could never watch her again without thinking about that...Let's hope that Kim treats our boy with dignified morality...He has a lot to accomplish without her getting in the way.

[Jackie in GA]

Linda, thank you so much for another great year.

Congrats to DC - that boy deserved it!!! I was a true blue Jason fan until his untimely demise, then quickly turned my support to DC.

You mentioned Brooke's bare feet - it appeared that Graham Nash was also shoeless. Odd indeed.

You go right ahead now and keep us all posted on the family goings on and any and everything else you choose to write about. We DGMSer's will always be here to read every word. (Careful you don't choke on that sammy, Sue.)

I love the anticipation of turning to this blog on a daily basis just to see what's up with you. Thank you and PLEASE keep up the great work.

[Elaine to Janna]

I came to chat late, so I didn't know you guys talked about it. Did you watch the clip? No, he likes her. Why shouldn't he? She's a pretty girl and she's been saying how good he is and how hot he is all season. I'm sure he was thinking, "Man, she's hot, I'm going for it." He gave her his number when he walked away (or at least a paper I can only assume has his number on it.) Just being nice? I think not.

[Shanna]

Thank you so much Linda for all of the wonderful recapping that you have done for this season of AI, not to mention all of your other blogs on a daily basis! You truly have a wonderful way with words!!!

David Cook Won!!!!!! I am beyond excited about that! Finally someone that I felt deserved the win got it. That was a very well done finale last night. DC with ZZTop was fantastic. My girls (6 and 11) both know who ZZTop is as they are one of my all-time favorite performers. DA blew me away (in a good way) when he sang back-up on Apologize. When I first heard that he was going to do the song I was fully prepared to find his little butt if he screwed up the song that I love but I was amazed at how well he did. That is the type of music he should do on his album.

As far as the SYTYCD dancers go, I hope that everyone noticed that they were from the past two seasons and NOT the upcoming season. It took me a few minutes to figure that out myself but once I got a good look at the faces I saw the ones that I loved from before. Linda, I hope that you do consider recapping the show. I know that we all would love to see your take on things with it as well!

Again, David Cook Won!!!!!! Yea! I can watch another season of AI now.

[ArizonaDave]

Wow - In the time it took me to type my last post, there's a YouTube link and everything. You are good.

AzD

[ArizonaDave to Elaine and Janna]

I actually saw him ask her out live.. I got home from work early and decided, "What the hey" and watched most of the Red Carpet Crap on TV Guide channel. DC was actually quite suave about it.. Both Davids were standing with Kim C and Justin G and they asked them how they were feeling, etc. DA babbled as he tends to do and and then she asked DC how he was doing. He said (paraphrasing) "I'm glad I finally get to talk to you, I've been watching all the nice things you've been saying about me all season so what I'm gonna do is ask you out to dinner" as he handed her a flower. She basically melted, hugged him and gave each other a kiss on the cheek. As she's hugging him Justin G says "It's a YES!" and DC gives a celebratory "YES!" When they cut back to her after a segment with the other host, she says excitedly "I have a DATE!" and said something about running away to Mexico and for TMZ to "try and find us!" It was unexpected, in good fun and quite entertaining.

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed most of the show. I personally like both Michael Myers and Jimmy K and really WANTED the bits to be funny but they both fell very flat.. though MM trying to shave DC - That did make me laugh almost as loud as DC did breaking up at the end of that bit.

ZZ Top - Fantastic
Brain Adams - Does he age? I wish I was holding up as well (class of 86!)
Donna Summer, Graham, New Rep, George Michael, everyone else - I was overall very impressed with the amount of entertainment going on - less filler. Maybe they ARE listening?

Another great season Linda - thanks for all the work you put into this and I'll be checking in now and again for a laugh or two.

AzDave

[janna to Elaine]

Like I said in the chat, she's a famewhore and I refer to her as KimberME (wherever there's a camera, you know she will be there, mugging) I think he was just being nice.

[Dduellman]

Reading your recap, this total marshmallow had tears rolling down her eyes (again) over last night's show. Last year was the first time I watched Idol and didn't think the finale was at all interesting. Last night's was the best time I've had in a long time. (I know that's sad.) But I'm happy. David Cook is gonna marry me, not you and my husband better not have anything to say about it either.

[Gayla to Linda]

Why did I KNOW beforehand that you would recall that line from Grease so quickly!!! HA HA HA...

I have to admit something here. I have been involved with many discussion groups in the past. I am a very opinionated person and I don't mind stepping in hip deep if necessary to stir the pot or to generate some interesting dialog. but.... I have never been involved with a group that I enjoy as much as this one. I truly have enjoyed watching and then participating in with this group. Kudos not only to Linda (of course she is awesome), but kudos to all of her champions/critics that make her blogs more than just random thoughts put down on the net. You are to be commended because with the exception of a stray hairy-assed jerk once in a while, everyone here is very cordial and accepting of each other's opinions, even when we don't agree. I am proud to have been involved with all of you! Thanks mucho!

[Amy in CT to Robin W]

LOL That's what I said in the chat room as soon as I saw Randy at the top of the show. I thought he looked like Thurston! Glad you thought so too, Robin :-)

[Robin W]

Thanks Linda for another great season of recaps! Even through the teeth issues, soccer and theatre practices, and Mother Nature, you gave us plenty of giggles!

I am so happy that David Cook won! The best part of the night---when Ryan almost ran off the stage on the motorized carpet--his expression was priceless!

Did anyone else think Randy was channeling Thurston Howell III from Gilligan's Island last night? Paula makes a great Lovey; Simon as the Professor and, of course, Ryan as Gilligan.HA

[MPolo]

Thought this season's finale was the best orchestrated by far, with the exception of the Mike Myers and Jimmy Kimmel skits... oh, and the "I am your brother" dude. The kids performed their patooties off... well, except for Amanda, who seemed to be burdened by the whole thing. Loved all the guest stars and their performances, and even the ads featuring the idols. Hopefully next year's Idol competition will replicate the energy, excitement, and enjoyment of last night's show. Didn't really care who won, as I think both Davids were worthy. But watching David Cook last night, well, he is obviously the natural entertainer. He seemed so much in his zone. Not to mention, entirely humbled and gracious when his name was read as the winner. Truly classy. And who couldn't help but be moved a bit emotionally, as we got to share in him taking the top honors, after a long, albeit addictive-to-watch journey. I think most of the contestants will do well post Idol, as they all seem extremely talented, and brought their own fortes to this year's show. While the show was aptly a snoozefest, I'm hopeful Lithgoe, et al will consider the viewers' input, and revamp the staleness of the general format next year. I'll watch next year regardless, and anticipate your recraps all the same.

Thanks, Linda, for yet again another fun year of your recaps. I genuinely enjoyed them, as I do all of your posts. I like my daily fix of your blog. It's entertaining, witty, well thought out, clearly expressed, and offers your readers a unique perspective of just about everything through your eyes. Simply put: You rock! ;)

[Elaine to Janna]

This is the video! He asks out Kimbely Caldwell.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrmdHU-eR8w

[Deanna to janna]

I saw that last night too and I thought Archie's dad said "I can't believe it" or something like that.

But would be worth taking a second look at. He'll disgust me even more if he said he had a new car.

[Linda Sharp to Gayla]

GREASE!

Go Stockard Channing!

[Gayla to Janna]

OMG, that is par for the course. I loved it when Ryan asked Davey if he has his driver's license - as if it matters! He has a Demon Dad that will take his car from him anyway! I swear the best think for that boy is to get emancipated as soon as possible to keep his dad's "filthy paws off his silky drawers" (10 points if anyone can remember that line from a very famous musical). Anyway, with Davey being under 18, not sure what the laws of Utah are, but if they are like many states, everything that Davey makes while he is under 18 will be controlled by his parents. First thing I would do is run out and divorce my dad!

[Elaine to Janna]

JANNA!! I just read that when Kimberly Caldwell interviewed Cookie on the TV Guide channel, HE ASKED HER TO DINNER! AND SHE ACCEPTED!! Who does that b*tch think she is, taking our man??!!!

[janna]

Someone at work told me that, when the guys got their cars, he saw Dadchuleta turn to his wife and say "I have a new car"

WTF??? if this is true. I have the episode on dvd (with the exception of Cookie singing his coronation song. GRR. they should make dvd's that can record 3 hours. or make AI stick to their two hour time slot.) so I will go back and rewatch to see if that is what he said

[Gayla]

I actually love SYTYCD after becoming very fond of Kat Deely while I was in the UK. She is so funny. You really should see her backstage with the AI contestants. One of the things I remember most was that last year she asked Blake if he "ever got that little bit of vomit come up right before you have to preform and suddenly realize you have to swallow it?" OMG I was rolling out of my chair with her truly honest representation. She is a gem! She really does get into the lives of the performers on her show. She becomes friends with them and though you think of her as such a proper British lady, she is rowdy, irreverent and just plain fun. The Brits miss her terribly. She was a favorite "presenter" (what they call show hosts). I think when Nigel decided to do a dancing show, she jumped at the chance to follow him to the US. I am not a dancer though I do enjoy moving to music, but I really do respect and enjoy watching these special kids kick ass during this show. It was such a treat to see them last night on the AI stage. However, it kinda made me a little pissed because we have "seen" the top 12, why watch all the auditions? I want them to jump in and get started.

BTW, last night on our local Fox News, the reporter was talking to Amanda and Carly (seperately). Amanda was a trainwreck. I think she is happy to be out of the AI arena now. It amazes me that she is a biker/rocker/RN. I am not sure I would want her to take care of me if I were ill! It's kinda creepy. She was very confusing in her responses to the reporter's questions. But, Carly was awesome actually. She was articulate, bright and gave some very succinct answers. She said that on tour she will play the part of Mom and make sure that Little David eats his veggies. She also was asked about whether she thought the format of the show needed tweaking. She said she thought that there needs to be less theme nights but the benefit of theme nights is it keeps everyone on the same keel. She also indicated that she thought David Cook has changed the format for Idol and that it will be a different show next year because he broke several barriers. She talked about their rehearsing at the Nokia and how everyone was in sweats and high heels. I was very impressed with her. She has a presence that is very warm and inviting now that there is no more pressure of competition. I hope she has an opportunity to record again and this time have success.

But about Amanda, well there are no words to explain her mannerisms. I think she is imbibing in Whiskey while performing at Whiskey's! The girl is just a few time zones away from reality!

[Joanne]

Even the guys over at that site that shall not be named, yes I hang there, like that DC won it. Yes they named David A for the last two weeks but even they weren't really behind him the way they were KLC, Amanda and Jason.

I am very glad Jason got to sing last night. It was good seeing him, relaxed and just singing. It was also cool to see Syesha do her thing and do it well. Damn this was a good finale for a season that has waay to much to gripe about.

So very glad America got it right. DC was the best one standing and yeah I'd buy his CD if he has creative control. Not trusting 19 at all here. Archie looked just as happy as DC did to win. That says good things about the kid. I was waiting to see Dadchuleta go postal(he didn't). I really wish they hadn't goofed around with Mike Myers last night. He was very innapropriate with David A. I could see DC cringing for him during that one. Poor kid.

Amanda is playing that the legendary Whisky this weekend in LA and I KNOW some of those from that site that will not be named have tickets. They really DID like her. But she was phoning in the group stuff last night.

I could go on but really don't want to bore ya. It was a good finale.

[Maggie]

Great recap, Linda! I totally missed DC's guitar hero commercial I was FF'ing through all the commercials so fast. I did see Puppy's, and was about to call my TV station and ask why they censored my DC version! Then decided I'd better go back and watch a little more carefully. Whoo-hoo....I watched it 3 times and am SO glad I have it recorded. The one TERRIBLE thing is that I forgot to set my recorder for 10 extra minutes and after Ryan said "The new AI is David Cook!", it cut off. I wasn't in the room when it happened so I missed everything after that. Bwwwaaaaaa...sniff, sniff. But I'll be anxiously awaiting DC's CD. I guess it'll have to be enough for me that he WON!!! I still can't believe it.

I, also, would like to have seen Jeff A.'s face when DC's name was announced. I just hope he didn't take his frustration out on Puppy!

HATED the Mike Myers and Jimmy Kimmel bits, LOVED the Gladys and the Pips bit, could have done without the clips of the bad tryouts, but other than that, thought this was the best Idol finale ever.

Thanks again, Linda, for all the laughs. Already looking forward to next season.

[Lee]

SUCH a happy ending, and such a surprise after they all but crowned David A the winner the night before.

For a finale, there wasn't much that was wrong. I'd have ditched Mike Myers and the Renaldo Lapuz/marching band bit (good grief, that was tacky!). I'd have dressed both Jordin Sparks and Carrie Underwood differently (HIDEOUS!, as Simon would say). I'd have put someone other than George Michael as the final guest performer - not because he wasn't good, but because his song was pretty blah. Not a lot of excitement for that song in my house. Oh, and I'd have ditched Jimmy Kimmel.

But ... OH! What they got right!

Jason Castro resinging Hallelujah. Beautiful.

Jordin and Carrie's performances - depite their unfortunate outfits - were terrific. THAT'S how you perform, people.

David and David singing Hero. Good choice of song, and I thought they sounded great together. It wasn't so out of his league that David A (who was a MUCH better performer with the pressure off) couldn't keep up with David C.

The guests!!! Donna Summer? Girl got GAME! She's still amazing. Bryan Adams? OMG ... as hot as ever, with a terrific twinkle in his eye. GRAHAM NASH!! One of my all-time most favoritist performers. The Jonas Brothers - not because I like them, but because the tweenies do, and because they prove teens can get the job done properly, performance-wise. (I liked that middle one in grey satin best, too :-0)

And ZZ Top!!! I got right out of my seat and moved as close to the tv as I could get. That was so cool! David C was clearly enjoying himself there, as well he should. GREAT choice of band for him to sing with.

One Republic's Apologize was also a great choice to showcase David A and show that he could be current, not schmaltzy, and not dweeby.

I do have to wonder who's running Disney these days. Installing an AI Experience NOW? After 7 seasons?

The two best parts of the night?

The "Pips" ... that was perfection. I love those guys - separately and together.

And finally ... David Cook winning, bless him. What a happy, happy, tearful moment for him and his family, and what a class act. As others have said, that's even a My Happy Now song that I will enjoy hearing again and again.

Thank you, Linda, for your season of recaps - as well as for your daily blogging. It's fun to check in.

[Mom of 5]

Last night was definitely one of the better finales, except for the awful Mike Myers bit. I have to admit that although I voted for DA after the finals, I had my misgivings yesterday. I thought, David C. should win and David A. will benefit from maturing a bit in terms of performance. I think DA will be around for a long, long time, long after a lot of the AI winners have burned through the grease in their pans.

I went back to watch the Guitar Hero commercials. My take? The fans of each will be slobbering all over their respective David. What is it about us crazy women and legs? I used to love going bowling with my husband when we were teenagers and just dating, because I could sit behind him and as he took his turn, salivate over his *ahem* really nice backside and leg muscles. Still enjoy it, actually. All right, back to the show.

My DVR stopped recording with "the winner is" and the next show picked up with the David's hugging. Thank goodness for youtube so I could catch that crucial 5 seconds. :-)

Well, another season has gone. This is the first and only place I go to get my official recapping. I enjoy Linda's blog for everything else she writes, too, and will keep checkin' on in. Thank you for everything, Linda!

I'm setting my DVR for So You Think You Can Dance again this season. For a gal who can run a marathon but can't hardly touch her toes, I marvel at the dancers' abilities. I wish Linda would recap this show, but I don't know if there's that much to be able to recap on, or get much humor out of. AI is such a smug, vast machine that it just begs to be made fun of. The only thing even slightly annoying on SYTYCD is Mary's laughs and screams, but the more you watch, the more those actually endear you to her. And at least the judges are sober.

[Gayla]

I believe that the first winner, Kelly Clarkson, was not of the specific demographic AI was reaching for, but look at her career. It is awesome. I believe that David Cook is in the same vein as KC. The producers at Fox need to stop trying to grab the 13-24 demo and realize that it is the over 30 crowd that pays the bucks for the concerts and they CDs/DVDs. The little tweenieboppers buy music one song at a time. The college kids don't have the money to shell out for music. And let's not forget about the piracy issues. The over 30 demo is more likely to buy an album and see the concert of a performer like DC than they are DA. I think DA will be a lot like the Mylie Cyrus/Hannah Montana tour. Parents paying big bucks for their 11-15 year olds to see him. Kinda like Archuletta on Ice! Now, that would work! ;)

[janna]

I just checked my gophone account history. 719 text messages. Not to mention the four hours of redialing.

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY FOR MY COOKIE! Audition to Finale, he's been my favorite. My TV boyfriend. and now he's the American Idol!

I am a useless puddle of goo today.

Marc said "excited anticipation to utter outrage to sheer joy"

I'd characterize my emotional run as follows: excited joy to exasperation to thrashing rage to defiant determination (719 f*cking texts, y'all), to nervous anticipation, to "how the f*ck am I going to get through this" levels of pure nervousness, to absolute and complete joy and feelings of love, to this morning's exhausted happiness.

KelBel said "Smokin' hot huge steaming pile of SEXY"

That man is sex on a stick, KelBel. David Cook is LOVE.

His Guitar Hero commercial and ZZ Top performance were just pure sex. HOT.

I am a WordNerd hardcore forever and ever, till the end of time.