Nigel Lythgoe took over for Jerry Lewis during the 11 pm PDT hour of the MDA telethon.  First up on Nigel’s watch?  David Archuleta sang a brand new song, “Things Are Gonna Get Better”.

Watch out for more video from Ace Young and more in a bit.  Nigel will be hosting through the night.  He’s threatening to bring up audience members to audition for American Idol. Eeps!

Video Update: Watch Jerry Lewis’ over-the-top introduction of guest co-host Nigel LythgoeAce Young performs (Nigel tells the story of Ace and Chris Daughtry out drinking in a Vegas bar when they should have been in bed).  Nigel hosts a “faux Idol” with audience members (and Ace as a judge).  Plus BACKSTAGE video of David Archuleta and Ace Young.

2nd Update: Added vids of Terry Fator and the Tyce Diorio dancers

3rd Update: Added Constantine Maroulis and the Rock of Ages cast performing “Here I Go Again”. Plus, Tyce Diorio dancers perform the SYTYCD “Send in the Clowns” routine.

Video after the JUMP…

David Archuleta sings “Things Are Gonna Get Better”

David Archuleta – Backstage at the telethon – On His New Album

David Archuleta backstage with the Gibbs Sisters

Ace Young performs

Ace Young – Backstage

American Idol feat. Audience members (Ace is a judge)

Jerry Lewis introduces Nigel Lythgoe

Bonus Video:

Tyce Diorio dancers perform a tap routine

Nigel Lythgoe introduces America’s Got Talent winner, ventriloquist Terry Fator

Tyce Diorio dancers perform the SYTYCD “Send in the Clowns” routine

Constantine Maroulis and the Cast of “Rock of Ages” perform “Here I Go Again”

  • ggdoorsfan

    I don’t give a shizz about what jive thinks. LOL.

    that’s nice to know, lol – :) since allison is no longer is affiliated w/jive, she is free to yoke herself with another label who is willing to give her a deal, or she can go indie, and stick it to da man from outside the mainstream, lol… whichever way she goes, i don’t give a xxxx – she will be ok.

  • abbysee

    BEAUTIFULLY sung. Really enjoyed it. And the song fits the occasion perfectly. I don’t know. Maybe I’m weird, but when I saw the performance I wasn’t thinking in terms of singles or charts or artistic direction.

    It’s a telethon to raise money for MDA and the song seemed to fit the occasion and his performance was very heartfelt.

    Worked for me and I’m leaving it at that.

    That was the point wasn’t. Sometimes the appearance must fit the occasion. It’s not going to be on the radio, but then I don’t think that was the intention. David can sing anything. David will have another pop hit at some point. David has a fanbase that loves him with a passion so I don’t think they are worried about him singing in more than one genre. As a matter of fact, I actually think it’s an asset. Not a liability.

  • Grammie Kari

    I ended up watching the MDA program for 8 hours, although I wasn’t in the room for the local segments. I was very surprised at how nice and humble Nigel was. His behavior made you like him. His closure speech was heartwarming, and he offered participation in next year’s show. Bravo Nigel.

    I don’t know how anyone can resist David Archuleta. He is such a wonderful singer and just sweet as can be! He has a gorgeous voice and will have an enduring career. I still recommend the dance lessons, because Broadway is in his future. I don’t see Justin Bieber being around 10 years from now. Archie will be.

    It’s a telethon to raise money for MDA and the song seemed to fit the occasion and his performance was very heartfelt.

    Absolutely true! The song was perfect! He has such a great presence.

    I didn’t enjoy Ace’s singing performance, but he was so funny in the “American Idol” audition segment. I couldn’t help but laugh over and over again. Also, glad to see Constantine be a part of this. No, Idol girls?

  • mhel

    I really loved the song things are gonna get better by david! I’ve been listening to it non-stop since yesterday and it really moved me to tears! It felt like, he wrote this song for me….so relatable and so uplifting!!!

    Bravo david and pls do more songs like this! You may not sell million of copies but you definitely give comforts and hope with lots of people!

  • Grammie Kari

    I think David is capable of doing just about any genre! Watch for him on the Friday special, Stand Up 2 Cancer.

  • http://twitter.com/cara_lee pj

    I’m not fan of Constantine, but that Rock of Ages performance was cheese-tastic. Worth watching for the choreography alone. LOL.

  • Yvonne13

    So, is hosting going to be Nigel’s new sideline career, LOL? Nice PR move for Idol & company I suppose. Ace is looking mighty fine. I like Archie – keeping himself out there, unlike the other David (*dodges tomatoes*).