@IdolsNow: At her rehearsal for Brooks & Dunn, IdolsNow learns that CARRIE UNDERWOOD’s next single is “Undo It.” Goes to radio May 3.
‘American Idol’: Justin Bieber has segment, not performance for ‘Idol Gives Back’
There are conflicting reports about Justin Bieber’s involvement in “Idol Gives Back, ” the “American Idol” charity event taking place Wednesday, April 21, but FOX has confirmed to Zap2it that while Bieber has pre-taped a segment for the show, it is not a performance.
I may quit Britain’s Got Talent, says ‘too busy’ Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell has revealed he is ready to quit Britain’s Got Talent – admitting that ‘something has to give’ in his busy life.
The multi-millionaire, whose talent show returns to ITV tonight for a fourth series, confirmed he may leave his judging role to concentrate on launching The X Factor in America.
Cowell, 50, told the Daily Mail yesterday: ‘I like the show, but it takes a hell of a lot of time and there are moments, I am not going to lie, where you are sitting there looking at these horrific acts and you actually think I genuinely can’t do this any more. But then you watch it back and you think it was all fun.’
Rascal Flatts “Saddened” as Lyric Street Records Closes
With the closing of Nashville’s Lyric Street Records, the Walt Disney-owned label that was home to Rascal Flatts, Bucky Covington, Love & Theft and several other fan favorites, the move has shifted some artists to another label under the Disney umbrella, while a few are now unfortunately left without a record deal.
Joining Rascal Flatts at Disney will be Bucky Covington, Tyler Dickerson and Kevin Fowler. The other artists on the Lyric Street roster — Sarah Buxton, Love & Theft and The Parks have been dropped
More Idol Headlines after the JUMP…
Idol’s Lakisha Jones gives back to Houston
Next week’s Idol Gives Back extravaganza kicked off early — and locally — Thursday at the Houston Food Bank.
Season 6 finalist and Houston resident Lakisha Jones inspected and prepared food alongside other volunteers (photos above) as part of a weeklong campaign leading up to next week’s two-hour show, 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.
Ellen DeGeneres, Adam Lambert top Out magazine’s most influential list
And the most powerful gay person in America is — Ellen DeGeneres.
“American Idol’s” newest judge tops Out magazine’s list of the most influential gay men and women in America, rising from the No. 2 slot she occupied last year thanks in large part to the broader exposure “Idol” has brought her.
But DeGeneres isn’t the only “Idol”-affiliated name to rank high. Adam Lambert debuts on the list at No. 5, breezing right past the likes of “Project Runway” powerhouse Tim Gunn (No. 47), two-time Oscar winner Jodie Foster (No. 41) and financial guru Suze Orman (No. 27) — as well as a host of other entertainment, media, political and fashion heavyweights.
Katie Stevens: The Idol Chatter Interview
With a few hours’ sleep under her belt and a little bit of perspective, Katie Stevens was coming to terms with her eighth-place American Idol finish Thursday afternoon when we spoke by phone.
“I’m happy and proud of myself for how far I made it, ” said the Connecticut native, eliminated Wednesday with Andrew Garcia. “It was a pleasure to work with everybody at American Idol and to be able to be part of the Idol family.”
Katie Stevens looks back on her time in ‘La-La Land’
Continuing Idol Tracker’s weekly series, Top 9 contestant Katie Stevens reflects on her time in “La-La Land.” The 17-year-old Connecticut native, who claims she’s never had a tan, was clearly in awe of our fair city and its nonstop sunshine. She also fills us in on what the “American Idol” judges are like up-close (Randy Jackson has “really awesome sweaters” and “teeth that sparkle;” Kara DioGuardi is “even more beautiful” than she is on camera) and draws us a peculiar creature: Robertasoraus, the Herbivore (we’ll have to ask Katie about that later at the “If I Can Dream” house). Page 2 of her questionnaire after the jump…
Lady Antebellum’s Advice to ‘American Idol’ Castoff Katie Stevens: ‘Keep Going’!
When asked if they’re watching the show, they admitted most times they’re on stage themselves when it airs. But Haywood caught an episode a couple weeks ago. “There’s a girl named Katie that I thought was really good, ” he said. Informed that she’d just been voted off, he cracked up. “Did she really?” he said. (“Goes to show you Dave’s taste, ” joked Kelley.) “I thought she was really good!” Haywood continued. “She had a thing. When I watched, I couldn’t stop watching her sing. I thought she had a great delivery, and I thought she was incredible. And I am sad to see her go.”
Katie’s friends and teachers can’t wait to welcome her back
“I was quite surprised they voted her off. I expected Katie to be in the top five (finalists), ” said Paul Doniger, drama director at Pomperaug High School in Southbury. Doniger had directed Katie in several performances at the school over the past few years.
He feels Katie, along with current finalists Siobhan Magnus and Crystal Bowersox, was among the most talented singers on the show. “The three of them really can sing. They have a good voice and know how to use it right. They know how to sell a song, ” he said.
Andrew Garcia looks back on his time in ‘La-La Land’
The Top 9’s second eliminated contestant, Andrew Garcia, lives some 70 miles east of L.A., but that doesn’t mean he’s any less taken with his “American Idol” experience in Hollywood. The Moreno Valley native reflects on his time in “La-La Land, ” the friends he’s made (his bromance partner Lee DeWyze helped him pack — aww!) and good times he’s had (a visit to Simon Fuller’s house!). After the jump, Andrew’s thoughts on Ryan Seacrest (“one of the nicest” people he’s ever met) and what he has in common with Randy Jackson. Also, some nifty Andrew art!
What Should Tim Urban Do With His Post-‘Idol’ Career?
“Teflon Tim, ” or “Turban” as Seacrest so oddly referred to ‘American Idol’ finalist Tim Urban this week, is one of the more polarizing contestants in the show’s history. Some love him (particularly those under the age of 16 … okay, 13), and some hate that he’s still a contender, but even those in the latter camp have to admit: He’s just a really likable guy, no matter what you may think of his vocal skills.
But, even those who are firmly ensconced on Team Urban would surely acknowledge that the likelihood of young Urban (who turns 21 on May 1) making it all the way to the ‘AI’ crown is pretty small. Yes, yes, we know, it was this same tween crowd that supposedly voted the milquetoast Kris Allen past Adam Lambert for the title last year, but even Kris Allen is more … well, you know.
Fallen ‘Idol’: The champ stumbles, and ‘Dancing With the Stars’ steps up
What has gone so horribly wrong with “American Idol” this season? Why, after a culture-defining run since 2002, is the Fox show, in its ninth season, just lying there like a halibut that’s been out of the water way too long? And what finally went right with ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” this season — so right that it has twice attracted more viewers than “Idol” and last week tied it?
Brian Dunkleman responds to Seacrest dis
The Season One co-host spoke to TV.com about Tuesday’s show, in which Ryan joked that Dunkleman would be hosting the second stage for “Idol Gives Back” (at Pasadena’s Civic Auditorium), telling the website: “It was an attempt at a joke. But unfortunately for Ryan, instead of a laugh, he got applause. That’s never really been his strong suit. But it was a joke, and whether it was mean-spirited or not is irrelevant. A joke’s a joke; you can either take it or you can’t. And quite honestly, once you’ve had Jimmy Kimmel say in a monologue that you should be punched in the face, and at this point you’d probably be receptive to a knife in the gut, I think what Seacrest said was pretty tame.”
Dunkleman goes on to theorize that it’s “Idol’s” sagging ratings which caused Seacrest to go further off-script than usual. “The timing doesn’t surprise me, ” said Dunkleman. “‘Dancing with the Stars’ has replaced ‘Idol’ as the No. 1 show for, what, the last two weeks? I’m sure that’s sending Seacrest into a panic. It’s not surprising that he would act crazy to get attention, or throw my name out there — he’s done things like this before.”
‘American Idol’ on wane, but some things a’ight
Twenty millions viewers can’t be wrong, can they?
Although the franchise is getting tired and the contestants seem dreary, “American Idol” remains one of the most popular shows on television.
For the past two weeks, I’ve pointed out flaws in Fox’s singing contest, so it’s only fair to stop kvetching and consider the flip side. What’s right about “American Idol” as we slog through season nine?
‘American Idol’ Fans Surprised By Resilience Of Aaron Kelly, Tim Urban
Though she had predicted Garcia’s ouster, MJ Santilli of MJsBigBlog.com was a bit disappointed by Stevens’ departure. “I’ve been hard on her most of the season, criticizing her pageant-like performances, ” Santilli said. “But in the last two weeks, she had improved and seemed poised for a breakthrough. I thought of the two teens, Aaron Kelly was the one who should have been sent packing. His performances are spotty, and he’s not on the improvement arc Katie had begun before she was cut off.”
Carrie Underwood Extends Play On Tour Through December
Carrie Underwood has extended her Play On tour with dates scheduled through Dec. 19. The current leg of her tour continues through a June 20 show in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. With four festival appearances scheduled in July and August, she returns to the road for a Sept. 25 concert in Portland, Ore., and almost 50 additional stops before ending the tour in Calgary, Alberta.
She will have performed more than 100 shows in 2010. Billy Currington and Sons of Sylvia will appear as special guests during the fall tour. Underwood is donating 36 cents of every ticket sold during the fall tour to Save the Children’s United States Programs. This initiative was inspired by a reference to “36 cents” in the lyrics of her “Change, ” a track from her Play On album which addresses how even the smallest bit of spare change can make a difference in the world. She’ll perform the song on American Idol during the “Idol Gives Back” episode airing Wednesday (April 21).
Entertainment news for Friday [Podcast]
American Idol season six winner Jordin Sparks has career advice for P. Diddy and Mark Wahlberg drops a hint about Entourage’s new season! Vince and the boys are back in town and on your television screens this summer. It’s all on OnTheRedCarpet.com’s Webcast for Friday, April 16, 2010.
Jordin Sparks and Steve Smith to Lead March for Babies(R) in Manhattan
NEW YORK, April 16 /PRNewswire/ — The March of Dimes New York Division announced today that American Idol winner and Grammy nominated singer, Jordin Sparks, and New York Football Giants wide receiver, Steve Smith, will lead March for Babies® in Manhattan.
Over 8, 000 New Yorkers are expected to join March for Babies on Sunday, April 25 for the 3.5-mile walk, starting at Lincoln Center and ending at 23 St. and Madison Ave. CBS 2 News Co-Anchor, Maurice Dubois, and WCBS-TV/CBS 2 Sports Anchor and Reporter, Sam Ryan, will co-host the morning program.
American Idol Finalist to Perform to Benefit Pittsburgh Blind Agency
PITTSBURGH, April 16 /PRNewswire/ — Scott MacIntyre, whose talent and determination captivated the nation as the first vision impaired American Idol finalist, is coming to Pittsburgh to benefit a local 100-year-old nonprofit agency that serves people who are blind or vision impaired.
MacIntyre, 24, a classically trained pianist and award-winning singer, will perform at Blind & Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh’s (BVRS) annual Person of Vision dinner that will honor Diane P. Holder, President and CEO of UPMC Health Plan.
MacIntyre will perform on Tuesday, May 4, at the Westin Convention Center Hotel, downtown Pittsburgh, at BVRS’ major annual fundraiser to benefit programs and services for people with vision loss.
Sanjaya delivers rousing performance with local gospel choir
Sanjaya Malakar — or simply Sanjaya for “American Idol” addicts — is back in full voice. I heard the Federal Way native myself last Friday night, singing an incredible solo version of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.”
I didn’t expect to meet a “celebrity” that night. I didn’t even recognize him as my wife and I settled into a pew at Ebenezer AME Zion Church in Seattle’s Central District for a night of gospel singing honoring Pastor Alphonso H. Meadows Jr.
Imagine my surprise when someone nudged me. “That’s Sanjaya!” they whispered.
Hair On Broadway: Micah Jesse Talks To The Stars!
On Weds (Apr 14), MJ went to see the show at Hirschfeld Theater and was totally, completely, and utterly blown away! After the show, we went to dinner with the two leads, Diana (Sheila) and Ace (Berger), to talk about the show, the grueling schedule, life in The Big App, and what it takes to get on Broadway!
Miike Snow Count Ke$ha, Adam Lambert, Perez Hilton And More As Fans
Along with inescapable pop sensation Ke$ha, “American Idol” breakout star Adam Lambert named the trio’s debut as one of his favorite albums of 2009, even if he had a little trouble pronouncing the name.
SUSAN BOYLE PULLS OUT OF AUSTRALIAN TOUR
SUSAN Boyle has pulled out of her tour to Australia next month because she desperately needs to rest.
Mentor Simon Cowell, 50, said the Britain’s Got Talent singing sensation, 49, must have time off before she starts recording her second album.
Kate Gosselin seduces Jay Leno: ‘We’ll be voting for you on ‘Dancing With the Stars’!’ Plus last night’s jokes from Craig Ferguson and Chris Rock
There are only three things certain in this world, ” said Craig Ferguson on The Late Late Show last night. “Death, taxes, and Jay Leno at 11:30 on NBC.”
Jay Leno was smitten by the working-mom charms of Kate Gosselin on last night’s Tonight Show. “People give you grief, ” said Leno. “But you’re making money to support your family. Nobody else in the family seems to be working, are they?” (Translation: Jon Gosselin criticism.) “You said it, ” said Kate happily.
Video: ‘DWTS” Niecy Nash Strives to ‘Stay Alive’ with the Jive
ET was at a top secret, behind-the-scenes rehearsal for “Dancing with the Stars, ” where “The Insider”‘s Niecy Nash and her pro-partner Louis van Amstel geared up for Monday night’s show.
“I’m hoping that the jive will keep us alive in the competition, ” Niecy told ET. The actress/comedienne was one of the last stars to learn they were safe on Tuesday night’s elimination show.
Glee Sneak Peeks: Sue Sylvester Does Madonna Proud
Seriously, people, that’s the real deal when it comes to this week’s highly anticipated episode, which focuses on Jane Lynch’s beyond-brilliant alter ego and her undying devotion to the one we call the Queen of Pop.
And if you’re still not convinced, just check out the clip on top, you “sloppy freakshow babies”—whoops, sorry! Some of Sue’s Madge-ified ‘tude must’ve caught on. And wait, there’s more…
And sorry, Glee, but Jane’s only got room for one great thing in her life, and that slot belongs to a famous undergarment. “That cone bra was the best thing that ever happened to me. The power that I felt wearing that thing. Everybody was like, Ooh, hands off Jane.”
‘Glee’ star Jane Lynch is not as mean as she acts
Jane was at the Los Angeles Comedy Shorts Film Festival at the Downtown Independent Theatre Thursday (Apr. 15). After a quick dash to the ladies room, she came in the theatre and asked if there was a PA system because she wanted to make an announcement.
Turns out she found a passport in the ladies room and wanted to return it.
