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Phillip Phillips and Joshua Ledet still looking strong as top 3 make hometown visits
By Carla Patton
We're in the home stretch! Speaking of home, that's where the top 3 remaining contestants are going (or have returned from, if we're talking real time).
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They have successfully completed the "Hometown Hero" level of this game, and we'll watch the results of that interspersed with the judges' song choices for them Wednesday night.
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Wow, the final 3 could not look more exhausted. And, in making-Jessica-look-crazy news, she's wearing a floor-length evening gown! That's totally appropriate for her age and not drowning her at all! And she looks totally natural standing next to Phillip in flannel and jeans. I don't know. It's easier to criticize that than to actually choose something. How do you dress a 16-year old who sounds like a 28-year old? Debacle.
Next week, the performance show is on a Tuesday and the finale on a Wednesday! Make note! And in this episode there are three rounds: judges' choice, contestants' choice and Jimmy's choice. I bet Jimmy's choice will be the best. He just knows! At least the kid from "Touch" is here. And somewhere in the vicinity, Kiefer Sutherland is looking for him, whisper-screaming, "Jake!"
Joshua Ledet is up first, and Randy chose "I'd Rather Go Blind" by Etta James, a classic, for him. Joshua is doing well enough with this song and the old-timey microphone. I'm not familiar with this song, but it seems like a good choice for him. It's more laid-back, so it's not like he's going to push a diamond out first thing. We've got a long night ahead of us. But the thing about Joshua is that he always gives it his all, and even this first, expendable performance has some real oomph behind it. And of course, the judges can't help but rise to their feet, trained like Pavlov's dogs.
Ryan Seacrest asked Joshua how this night is different for him from watching a sporting event, and he paused, "Uh, I don't really know how to answer that." I really like Joshua. And that question was baloney.
The rest of the top 12 are here, watching in the audience! Oh, I miss Heejun. Remember Heejun? Things were really fun when he was on the show.
Jessica Sanchez will be singing "My All" by Mariah Carey, per Jennifer's request. The staging is really nice. They literally put her on a pedestal and turned on the fog machines. All Jessica has to do is stand there and not act weird about it, which she does successfully. I think this was also a good choice for Jessica, showing more tenderness and a less belt-y side of the ballad. It was really pleasant -- or whatever a more intense version of pleasant is. Randy called it one of the best times a Mariah song has ever been performed on TV. That's fair. Jennifer acknowledged that it was a hard song they threw at her. Steven predicted that Jessica would also win. Everyone wins, as Steven lives in multiple realities and dimensions.
Before the commercial break, Phillip Phillips is reunited with Heejun Han, and they're back to their old comedy routine. I miss them together. They need to figure out some sort of guest correspondent position for Heejun.
Phillip Phillips was assigned "Beggin'" by Madcon. At first, I wasn't sure how this would fit, but it turns out to be a pretty savvy arrangement. There isn't a way to make this song cooler than it is already, but this was an interesting take. Very classic Phillip. The audience loved it -- maybe more than I did. It sounded very DMB. Jennifer said it was great. Randy (who @ replied me during the commercial break! The "YO" pin is coming back!) said he felt like he was at the Phillip Phillips concert.
Ryan saunters over to the judges and asks for a Round 1 winner. The audience screams for Phillip. Randy gives the edge to Joshua, vocally. Jennifer says Phillip, to much applause, and Steven agrees that Phillip is magic.
Now, Joshua Ledet chooses "Imagine" by John Lennon to sing. I don't know. There are a few songs that should be retired from the show forever, and this is one of them (along with "Hallelujah" and "Falling Slowly"). I like that this song eases back a bit, though, as Joshua can sing the crap out of any song whenever he so chooses. I wish he had picked a better song or at least something a little less squeaky clean. But that's who he is! His genre is "inspirational music." The judges loved it. It's out of their hands as far as they're concerned. Joshua chose this song for the message. And good for him, but I really want him to sing some Cee Lo.
Jessica Sanchez chose to sing Aerosmith's "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing" in front of Steven Tyler! Like that's even a factor. This is another song that's overwrought, over-sung, and can ride on cheesy. It's not her finest moment, but we've known for a while now that she doesn't always choose the best songs for herself. It's even, dare I say, pitchy? But she finally looks great. So, that's something. The last note faltered, went flat and cracked. Maybe she's sick or blew out a vocal cord. The judges pretend it was spectacular.
Phillip Phillips gets a clip package next, and I'm sure the ladies will love it! I bet it's entertaining because he's a nice guy. I liked that shot of a guy holding a sign saying "Phillip, you still owe me $10." And he had a dish named after him at his favorite restaurant! That's cool. The girls are pressed up against the chain-link fences to see Phillip in Georgia. Naturally, he returns to the pawn shop, where more girls and overweight middle-aged women are waiting for him. Nobody buys anything at the pawn shop, though. I love Phillip's dad (Phillip Phillips Sr.), from the tears in his eyes to the gun in his belt. "I just wanna squeeze 'im till I cain't no more!" Phillip's mother says. His parents are so great. The parade makes Phillip tear up, and it's just hard not to love him as a person. If Phillip was singing music that was more like the kind of things that young girls like to listen to, he would be absolutely unstoppable, like Justin Bieber.
Phillip Phillips chose "Disease" by Matchbox 20. It's refreshingly within his range, allowing him to really sing, rather than reach. I don't agree with the judges on Round 1, but I think Phillip is definitely winning Round 2. The set designers love people sitting on instrument cases and amps, don't they? There's just too many there, though. It's not natural. Maybe Phillip chose this song because he actually has a disease that has put him in the hospital several times during this competition? Jennifer didn't feel like this was the "wow performance," and the audience boos that. Randy had a convoluted lead into "I didn't like it either." The judges want more. They want more of a moment and criticized him for performing something he could do in his sleep. But I liked it!
Jimmy chose "No More Drama" by Mary J. Blige for Joshua. Oh, that is awesome. Good job, Jimmy. Mary J. is current, but this song still brings it to church, which is Joshua's wheelhouse. I love his jacket! This is a good performance, but I'm not sure it really proves that Joshua could be relevant as this type of artist. I'd much rather attend a concert of him singing some soul classics. But he really drove it home at the end, doing what he does best, which is connecting to every song so deeply. Hollie and the other contestants really enjoyed it in the audience, which was adorable. He really has the best performance level of the three contestants remaining.
Jessica Sanchez got a giant AT&T box with a Beatbox and a phone with a text from Jimmy pre-loaded onto it. Oh, her brothers are keeping that phone! Jimmy chose "I'll Be There" by Jackson 5. Jimmy chose it to appeal to an older audience but still keep Jessica's youth. Admittedly, she sounds better than young Michael and his family did on it (I swear to God Tito or Jermaine is flat as hell on the backup in that song). The set designers gave her a roller coaster/Ferris wheel backdrop. Whatever, guys! It was nice, but it wasn't a moment. It just wasn't as exciting as some of the other stuff she's done in this competition. Randy liked it OK but didn't love it. That's how I feel, Randy. I'm tired. Oh, and her outfit was terrible again. Not even a hypnotic chartreuse bandeau top under a too-tight red leather jacket can cheer me up now.
Phillip Phillips is next to get a Beatbox and voicemail from Jimmy. Jimmy told him to sing "We've Got Tonight" by Bob Seger. Ah, Bob Seger! Of course! That's such a good choice for Phillip. Phillip looks nervous. But it's endearing, of course. He's really singing the melody. And his voice is pretty clear! This is a good Phillip. The ladies go crazy for Phillip and a string background! The judges do, too, rising to their feet and securing Phillip the win. Way to go, Jimmy. Way to just hand the win to your favorite.
Were you bored? Do you think anyone had any moments or were they too few and far between? Who had your favorite hometown visit?
What do you think of Wednesday night's performances? Who's next to go?
"American Idol" airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX.
Oscar-winning actress first former contestant to land the job
Jennifer Hudson is coming back to "American Idol."
The Oscar-winning actress and one-time contestant will be a judge when the beloved singing competition returns for Season 13, E! Online reports.
Bing: More on 'American Idol' | Jennifer Hudson
As reported earlier this week, FOX and the producers behind "American Idol" are hoping to recruit more past winners and competitors as judges. Other candidates include Kelly Clarkson, Adam Lambert and Clay Aiken. But Clarkson's camp told THR the "Stronger" singer will have no part on the judge's panel next season.
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"American Idol" is in need of new judge blood and bringing back former competitors could do the trick. Season 12 lost 33 percent of its viewers from last year and 10 million from 2011, due in part to the success of NBC's "The Voice." According to The Wrap, all four judges from Season 12 -- Randy Jackson, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban -- and even producer Nigel Lythgoe are getting the boot. But so far, Jackson has been the only one to officially bow out.
"American Idol" Season 13 returns to FOX in 2014.
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'X Factor' head doesn't rule out working with original 'American Idol' judges in the future
WENN
"X Factor" honcho Simon Cowell is open to reconstructing the original "American Idol" judges panel with Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul sometime in the future. For now, Cowell is slated to judge alongside Demi Lovato and new additions Kelly Rowland and Paula Rubio on "The X Factor" next season. But one day he could see himself reuniting with the team of judges that made "American Idol" a global sensation when it began in 2002.
He told "Extra," "I wouldn’t rule it out. I don't know on what show, but I think we've probably all got a desire to do something together again." As for his current trio of females, Cowell thinks their chemistry -- or perhaps lack of chemistry --- will only intensify the drama. He explained, "Putting a load of girls into one situation and seeing how they get on, I like that. I think it's fun."
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Rep for the Season 1 champ confirms she'll play no part on the show next season
WENN
"American Idol" champ Kelly Clarkson won't join the FOX singing competition show as a judge for Season 13. The "Stronger" singer's rep confirmed to the Hollywood Reporter she will have no part on the panel of the show next season. Clarkson was at the center of rumors suggesting show producers were eyeing an all-alumni judging panel, with Clay Aiken, Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert also reported to have been contacted.
Bing: More about 'American Idol'
FOX network bosses are scrambling to find a fix for the TV contest after the Season 12 finale saw a 33 percent drop in viewers compared to last year. Longtime judge Randy Jackson has jumped ship. Reports suggest that Nicki Minaj won't be returning. The futures of Mariah Carey and Keith Urban uncertain.
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Nick Carter developing series with fiancée, A.J. McLean looking to go 'Dancing'
WENN
Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter is developing his own reality TV series. His untitled series, which will center on the pop star and his fiancée Lauren Kitt as they plan their upcoming wedding, is winning over executives at several cable networks, according to reports. Carter tells blogger Perez Hilton, "It will also be about the growing-up phase of my life."
He isn't the only member of the grown-up boy band with his sights set on reality TV. A.J. McLean is desperate to show off his dancefloor skills on "Dancing With the Stars." Bandmate Howie Dorough explains, "The same year that Nick's brother (Aaron Carter) did it ("Dancing With the Stars"), I was approached about doing it but obviously couldn't do it because of the fact we were embarking on a new record and touring. I know A.J. has always said he's wanted to do it, for sure. He has almost begged to be on the show."
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'The Clintons' will showcase ongoing copyright battle on 'Osbournes'-like series
WENN
Funk icon George Clinton has vowed to use his new reality TV show to highlight his various legal battles over the copyrights to his songs. The Funkadelic legend is embroiled in numerous ongoing lawsuits over the use of his back catalog, and in January he was ordered to hand over the rights to four of his classic tracks to pay off a $1.5 million debt to his former lawyers. Earlier this year he announced he'd be following in the footsteps of rockers Gene Simmons and Ozzy Osbourne by launching his own family-based reality show, called "The Clintons." Now the star has revealed his legal battles will be at the core of the program.
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Clinton tells Uncut magazine, "I'm doing a reality show with my family, with my son Tracy, my six grandkids, Scott Thompson, Brandi ... It's a big family thing. A bit like ("The Osbournes"). But most of them are, like, musicians, rappers and everything ... We got to come up with new ways to get the music across, so we're doing this reality show, so we can expose all the noses out there, stealing the copyrights and taking people's music and money. This is all gonna be part of the reality show, the copyright fight."
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Amy's Baking Company adds immigration proceeding to public relations quagmire
WENN
Amy's Baking Company restaurateur Samy Bouzaglo, made infamous for his stint on Gordon Ramsay's show "Kitchen Nightmares," is facing deportation for withholding information about his criminal past. The Moroccan-born Israeli citizen was apparently less than forthcoming with immigration officials about drug distribution and extortion charges that landed him in prison before he came to the United States 13 years ago.
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Bouzaglo is now mired in ongoing immigration court proceedings that could result in his expulsion from the country, AZ Central reports. His attorney, David Asser, says the matter began two years ago and is unrelated to his unflattering portrayal on FOX's "Kitchen Nightmares." His residency was the subject of a removal hearing on Monday in Arizona. Samy tells the Arizona Republic, "The FBI knows all about me ... The IRS knows. I want people to know about me. But not today, not tomorrow. I have nothing to hide."
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'Starting Strong' to chronicle what it means to live, eat and breathe Army life
WENN
Actor Ricky Schroder and his production company have joined forces with the U.S. Army to produce an unscripted series that will shed light on the different aspects of Army life. "Starting Strong," which is directed, narrated and produced by Schroder, aims to educate Americans about daily life in the Army and potential careers within the organization. Viewers will be introduced to more than 150 military occupational specialties by Army prospects who will share their personal on-the-job experiences. Schroder tells the Hollywood Reporter, "This is sort of new for the Army to give this behind-the-scenes, open-door look at what it means to live, eat and breathe Army life. Viewers are going to see real young men and women getting real experience in living, eating and breathing Army culture and jobs."
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One focus for the series will center around the expectations of military candidates and how they match up with reality. The series will follow trainees through the challenges of their chosen profession until they ultimately decide to join the Army or return to civilian life. Schroder explains, "Sometimes what the families want the young man or woman to do is different than what they end up doing. And the Army's standards are higher than ever. So, in some cases, the Army may not want you because you are just not up to standards. You will see some of that, but it will be handled in a very delicate and gentle way." The 10-week chronicle is set to debut on FOX stations on June 2, with four additional episodes available online.
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'Who Do You Think You Are?' to return in July on TLC
WENN
Lisa Kudrow's family tree-themed "Who Do You Think You Are?" has taken root at a new network after bosses at NBC axed it last year. Sarah Jessica Parker, Susan Sarandon and Lionel Richie were among the celebrities who investigated their ancestral history on the series, which ran for three seasons and was executive produced by former "Friends" star Kudrow. NBC executives decided to cancel "Who Do You Think You Are?" last May, but it has now been picked up by TLC.
A statement from Kudrow reads, "I've never stopped hearing about how much people love 'Who Do You Think You Are?,' and I've always known that we've had more great stories to share. TLC is a great home for the series, and we join our excited celebrity participants as we unearth some amazing background and surprising histories." The new eight-part reality series will kick off on July 23.
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