IDOL WATCH: Top 11 Results Show; A Whole Lotta Crazy!

 

On last night's episode of American Idol, the top 11 truly shined as they belted out the best of the Motown repertoire. The general consensus about the performances has been overwhelmingly positive, with great responses from the Idol judges, and the internet community alike. Even some of the weaker contestants really stepped it up, making tonight's results more unpredictable and tense than ever.

Ryan revealed that America voted over 30 million times in the hopes of saving their favorites from a premature dismissal. He also continued to emphasize throughout the show that tonight's results would be ‘very surprising.' But who could it be?!

After a cute segment in which Marc Anthony gave performance tips to the contestants, they of course began a snazzy Motown medley featuring the classic "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." Then, in a special twist, Motown legend Stevie Wonder was rolled onto the stage and the love fest continued with "Signed, Sealed, Delivered." Just when the singing seemed over, Stevie and the kids broke out into "Happy Birthday" for Steven Tyler, who turns 63 this weekend. 63!!!

As was very slowly revealed throughout the hour, Stefano, Thia, and Casey received the least number of votes this week- very interesting. Stefano ending up in danger was no surprise, and though Thia improved last night, she's clearly one of the weaker performers. But clearly Ryan was referring to early frontrunner Casey Abrams' fall from grace all night when he talked about a big surprise.

The tension was broken up by a cheesy performance of "Stuck Like Glue" from Sugarland, a random appearance from Hulk Hogan (that I'm 99% sure caused James to pee his pants), and a standout return from season three alum Jennifer Hudson. Her newest single "Where You At," was flawless as usual. Sing it Effie!

As it turned out, Casey fell victim of tonight's elimination. No worries though, after singing the first five words of "I Don't Need No Doctor," Randy stopped the performance and told him that they had already decided to use the only save of the season. The news resulted in stunned expressions, muted profanities, and hugs all around. Now all eleven will get to go on the American Idol summer tour, and not one, but two contestants will be sent home next Thursday.

Tonight's episode was quite the event, to say the least! Don't forget to check in with BroadwayWorld's IDOL WATCH next Wednesday night for a recap on performances from the top 11... again! American Idol airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8pm on Fox. Vote for your favorite contestants at Americanidol.com!

Miss the Top 11 sing last night? Click here for a full recap!

Emmy Award-winning AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive produced by Simon Fuller, Founder, 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc.; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; and Nigel Lythgoe, President, Big Red 2 Entertainment.

Among the many American Idol finalists and winners to appear on the Broadway stage are Fantasia, Justin Guarini ,Jordin Sparks,Diana DeGarmo, Ace Young, Tamyra Gray, Constantine Maroulis, Frenchie Davis, Clay Aiken and Taylor Hicks.

Visit americanidol.com for exclusive videos, interviews and photos, as well as special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news.