IDOL WATCH: The Lucky 13 Becomes 12

Ryan Seacrest and the American Idol judges have been referring to this year's finalists as the lucky 13. We've followed them as they have traveled from their hometowns, to Hollywood, to Vegas, and right back to the Idol stage. Last night we heard 13 desperate people singing for their lives in the hopes of snagging America's votes for the second time. 

Just one question remains important in this first real elimination round of the season: Who of the lucky 13 will be the UNlucky one to be sent home first?

Ryan revealed that last night's episode triggered Americans to vote an impressive 30 million times in hopes of saving their favorites from an early departure. He also made an announcement that frontrunner Casey Abrams is currently in the hospital, thus unable to attend the results show tonight. Could it have something to do with his severe stomach pains from a few weeks ago? Get well, Casey!

In the tradition of American Idol results shows of the past, tonight included a Ford music video, and of course a cheesy group medley to kick off the show. Also featured in the episode was a montage of the 13 moving into their new Hollywood mansion and their trip to the premiere of ‘Red Riding Hood.' Though such segments don't have anything to do with their singing, you could argue that they provide a nice opportunity to get to know who you're voting for.

Tonight's episode marked the triumphant return of my all-time Idol favorite- Adam Lambert! The glam rocker from season eight sang an acoustic version of his "Aftermath" as flawlessly as ever. And the proceeds from the sales of the single, which will be made available on his website tonight, will be donated the Trevor Project. How can you not love this guy?!

Ryan broke the news that Karen Rodriguez, Ashton Jones, and Haley Reinhart were in danger of going home tonight, none of which were big surprises. All three delivered lack-luster performances last night, though it's a little odd that all three were ladies. The suspense was then heightened by two commercial breaks and a performance by Diddy Dirty Money.

As it turned out, wildcard Ashton was sent home. To be honest I was far more surprised when the judges chose to save her last week, so I'm not at all bitter about her departure. Her final performance of course ended in tears, and the judges made the tough but appropriate decision to not use the single ‘save' of the year. Season seven winner David Cook, who earned the honor of providing the farewell song for this year, closed the show behind a montage of Ashton's biggest moments.

Don't forget to check in with BroadwayWorld's IDOL WATCH next Wednesday for a recap on the performances of the top 12! American Idol airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8pm on Fox. Vote for your favorite contestants at Americanidol.com!

Miss the Top 13 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.

Photo Credit: Ray Mickshaw/FOX

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