American Idol (season 9)

American Idol
Season 9
Broadcast from January 12, 2010 – May 26, 2010
Judges Simon Cowell
Ellen DeGeneres
Kara DioGuardi
Randy Jackson
Host(s) Ryan Seacrest
Broadcaster Fox
Finals venue Nokia Theatre Los Angeles
Winner:
Lee DeWyze
Origin Mount Prospect, Illinois
Song "Beautiful Day"
Genre(s) Alternative rock, post-grunge
Runner-up
Crystal Bowersox
Chronology
◄ 2010 ►

The ninth season of American Idol premiered on January 12, 2010 and concluded on May 26, 2010 on Fox.[1] Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi all returned as judges, and Ellen DeGeneres permanently replaced Paula Abdul as the fourth judge.[2] Idol Gives Back also returned for the season and was held on April 21, 2010, during the top seven results show.[3] The top 24 semi-finals format used in the fourth through seventh seasons also returned this season.[4] This was Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi's last season judging on American Idol.[5][6] Ellen DeGeneres also left the show after this season, her only one as a judge.[7] This was the second season where neither of the final 2 contestants had been in the bottom 2 or 3, with the first being the seventh season. This was also the third consecutive season a male contestant had won, the longest streak for either gender. It was the first season since season 6 where a female made it to the finale and was also the first time since season 5 that both the finalists released a different song as a debut single.

Contents

Judges

After the season began, Paula Abdul did not return as the fourth judge on the panel, having announced in the beginning of August 2009 that she was leaving the show due to unresolved contract negotiations.[8] Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Shania Twain, Katy Perry, Avril Lavigne, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris and Kristin Chenoweth were brought in to star as guest judges during the auditions phase.[9][10][11][12]

After making the decision to utilize guest judges in Abdul's absence, Fox chairman Peter Rice stated that they would find a permanent fourth judge before the season premiere in January 2010,[13] leading the confirmation on September 9, 2009 by Ellen DeGeneres that she would be joining the show as the new permanent fourth judge for the rounds held at CBS Television City for Hollywood Week and thereafter, onto the live shows.[14]

In addition, Simon Cowell announced shortly before the ninth season began that it would be his last season on American Idol. Cowell will be leaving the show to begin preparations for an American version of his talent show The X-Factor.[15]

Early process

Regional auditions

Auditions were held in the following cities:[16]

During this stage guest judges filled in the fourth judging seat.[9][17][18][19]

Episode Air Date Audition City First Audition Date Call-back Audition Date Audition Venue Guest Fourth Judge(s) Tickets to Hollywood
January 12, 2010 Boston, Massachusetts[20] June 14, 2009 August 13 & 14, 2009 Gillette Stadium Victoria Beckham 32
January 13, 2010 Atlanta, Georgia June 18, 2009 August 16 & 17, 2009 Georgia Dome Mary J. Blige 25
January 19, 2010 Chicago, Illinois June 22, 2009 August 30 & 31, 2009 United Center Shania Twain 13
January 20, 2010 Orlando, Florida July 9, 2009 August 28, 2009 Amway Arena Kristin Chenoweth 31
August 29, 2009 No Guest Judge
January 26, 2010 Los Angeles, California[21] June 30, 2009 September 3, 2009 Rose Bowl Avril Lavigne 23
September 4, 2009 Katy Perry
January 27, 2010 Dallas, Texas[22] June 26, 2009 August 24, 2009 Cowboys Stadium Neil Patrick Harris 31
August 25, 2009 Joe Jonas
February 2, 2010 Denver, Colorado July 14, 2009 August 5 & 6, 2009 Invesco Field Victoria Beckham 26
Total Tickets to Hollywood 181

"Pants on the Ground"

During the Atlanta auditions, 62-year-old activist Larry Platt appeared and performed his original song "Pants on the Ground." The song's lyrics criticize people wearing the hip-hop style of clothing including pants that sag. Well over the age limit of 28, Platt was ineligible to continue. His performance has since become a viral hit, and several celebrities performed the song in the days that followed the original airing of his audition in Atlanta.

Hollywood week

Held at the Kodak Theatre for the second straight year, the first day of Hollywood Week featured the 181 contestants (although there were 172 contestants that actually took the stage according to American Idol website[23]) from the auditions round singing solo with the option of playing an instrument.[24] Ninety-six contestants advanced. The next round required the contestants to split up into groups and perform. Seventy-one advanced to the final round of Hollywood requiring a solo performance. Forty-six made it to the final round where the judges take contestants one by one and tell them if they made the final twenty-four.

Ellen DeGeneres made her first appearance as a judge (replacing Paula Abdul) at this time.

Semi-finals

Semi-finalists

The first seven were revealed on February 16, 2010 (during the second hour on the episode), and the rest were revealed on the following night's episode.[25]

Females
Contestant Date of Birth Age Hometown Audition Location Voted Off
Lilly Scott May 16, 1989 20 Littleton, Colorado Denver, Colorado March 11
Katelyn Epperly March 21, 1990 20 West Des Moines, Iowa Chicago, Illinois
Haeley Vaughn June 5, 1993 16 Fort Collins, Colorado Denver, Colorado March 4
Michelle Delamor December 31, 1987 22 Miami, Florida Orlando, Florida
Ashley Rodriguez November 4, 1987 22 Boston, Massachusetts Boston, Massachusetts February 25
Janell Wheeler May 8, 1985 24 Orlando, Florida Orlando, Florida
Males
Contestant Date of Birth Age Hometown Audition Location Voted Off
Alex Lambert December 10, 1990 19 North Richland Hills, Texas Dallas, Texas March 11
Todrick Hall April 4, 1985 25 Arlington, Texas Dallas, Texas
Jermaine Sellers February 9, 1983 27 Joliet, Illinois Atlanta, Georgia March 4
John Park May 10, 1988 21 Northbrook, Illinois Chicago, Illinois
Tyler Grady October 26, 1989 20 Nazareth, Pennsylvania Boston, Massachusetts February 25
Joe Muñoz August 23, 1989 20 Huntington Park, California Los Angeles, California

The semi-final format used through seasons 4-7 has been revived for this season. Starting with 12 women and 12 men, the women and men perform on weekly separate shows and on the result shows, the bottom 2 women and the bottom 2 men are eliminated from the competition. The semi-finals took place over three weeks until there are six women and six men forming the top 12.

From this point on in the show, this season's exit song, "Leave Right Now" by Will Young, was played over eliminations.[26]

Top 24 – Billboard Hot 100 Hits

Order Females Males
Contestant Song (original artist) Result Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Paige Miles "All Right Now" (Free) Safe Todrick Hall "Since U Been Gone" (Kelly Clarkson) Safe
2 Ashley Rodriguez "Happy" (Leona Lewis) Eliminated Aaron Kelly "Here Comes Goodbye" (Rascal Flatts) Safe
3 Janell Wheeler "What About Love" (Heart) Eliminated Jermaine Sellers "Get Here" (Brenda Russell) Safe
4 Lilly Scott "Fixing a Hole" (The Beatles) Safe Tim Urban "Apologize" (OneRepublic) Safe
5 Katelyn Epperly "Oh! Darling" (The Beatles) Safe Joe Muñoz "You and I Both" (Jason Mraz) Eliminated
6 Haeley Vaughn "I Want to Hold Your Hand" (The Beatles) Safe Tyler Grady "American Woman" (The Guess Who) Eliminated
7 Lacey Brown "Landslide" (Fleetwood Mac) Safe Lee DeWyze "Chasing Cars" (Snow Patrol) Safe
8 Michelle Delamor "Fallin'" (Alicia Keys) Safe John Park "God Bless the Child" (Billie Holiday) Safe
9 Didi Benami "The Way I Am" (Ingrid Michaelson) Safe Michael Lynche "This Love" (Maroon 5) Safe
10 Siobhan Magnus "Wicked Game" (Chris Isaak) Safe Alex Lambert "Wonderful World" (James Morrison) Safe
11 Crystal Bowersox "Hand in My Pocket" (Alanis Morissette) Safe Casey James "Heaven" (Bryan Adams) Safe
12 Katie Stevens "Feeling Good" (Cy Grant) Safe Andrew Garcia "Sugar, We're Goin Down" (Fall Out Boy) Safe

Top 20 – Billboard Hot 100 Hits

Note: The females were scheduled to go first, but medical issues with Crystal Bowersox, who was hospitalized on March 2 with complications from diabetes, required a switch.[27]

Order Males Females
Contestant Song (original artist) Result Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Michael Lynche "It's a Man's Man's Man's World" (James Brown) Safe Crystal Bowersox "Long As I Can See the Light" (Creedence Clearwater Revival) Safe
2 John Park "Gravity" (John Mayer) Eliminated Haeley Vaughn "The Climb" (Miley Cyrus) Eliminated
3 Casey James "I Don't Want to Be" (Gavin DeGraw) Safe Lacey Brown "Kiss Me" (Sixpence None the Richer) Safe
4 Alex Lambert "Everybody Knows" (John Legend) Safe Katie Stevens "Put Your Records On" (Corinne Bailey Rae) Safe
5 Todrick Hall "What's Love Got to Do with It" (Tina Turner) Safe Didi Benami "Lean on Me" (Bill Withers) Safe
6 Jermaine Sellers "What's Going On" (Marvin Gaye) Eliminated Michelle Delamor "With Arms Wide Open" (Creed) Eliminated
7 Andrew Garcia "You Give Me Something" (James Morrison) Safe Lilly Scott "A Change Is Gonna Come" (Sam Cooke) Safe
8 Aaron Kelly "My Girl" (The Temptations) Safe Katelyn Epperly "The Scientist" (Coldplay) Safe
9 Tim Urban "Come On Get Higher" (Matt Nathanson) Safe Paige Miles "Walk Away" (Kelly Clarkson) Safe
10 Lee DeWyze "Lips of an Angel" (Hinder) Safe Siobhan Magnus "Think" (Aretha Franklin) Safe

Top 16 – Billboard Hot 100 Hits

Order Females Males
Contestant Song (original artist) Result Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Katie Stevens "Breakaway" (Kelly Clarkson) Safe Lee DeWyze "Fireflies" (Owl City) Safe
2 Siobhan Magnus "The House of the Rising Sun" (traditional) Safe Alex Lambert "Trouble" (Ray LaMontagne) Eliminated
3 Lacey Brown "The Story" (Brandi Carlile) Safe Tim Urban "Hallelujah" (Leonard Cohen) Safe
4 Katelyn Epperly "I Feel the Earth Move" (Carole King) Eliminated Andrew Garcia "Genie in a Bottle" (Christina Aguilera) Safe
5 Didi Benami "Rhiannon" (Fleetwood Mac) Safe Casey James "You'll Think of Me" (Keith Urban) Safe
6 Paige Miles "Smile" (Nat King Cole) Safe Aaron Kelly "I'm Already There" (Lonestar) Safe
7 Crystal Bowersox "Give Me One Reason" (Tracy Chapman) Safe Todrick Hall "Somebody to Love" (Queen) Eliminated
8 Lilly Scott "I Fall to Pieces" (Patsy Cline) Eliminated Michael Lynche "This Woman's Work" (Kate Bush) Safe

Finals

As in season 8, the judges were given one save that they could use before the top 5 week. They used the save for Michael Lynche during top 9 week.

Finalists

Females
Contestant Date of Birth Age Hometown Audition Location Voted Off
Crystal Bowersox August 4, 1985 24 Elliston, Ohio Chicago, Illinois May 26
Siobhan Magnus March 15, 1990 20 Cape Cod, Massachusetts[28] Boston, Massachusetts April 28
Katie Stevens December 8, 1992 17 Middlebury, Connecticut Boston, Massachusetts April 14
Didi Benami October 25, 1986 23 Hollywood, California Los Angeles, California March 31
Paige Miles September 26, 1985 24 Naples, Florida Dallas, Texas March 24
Lacey Brown August 13, 1985 24 Amarillo, Texas Orlando, Florida March 17
Males
Contestant Date of Birth Age Hometown Audition Location Voted Off
Lee DeWyze[29] April 2, 1986 24 Mount Prospect, Illinois Chicago, Illinois Winner
Casey James May 31, 1982 27 Fort Worth, Texas Denver, Colorado May 19
Michael Lynche May 31, 1983 26 St. Petersburg, Florida Orlando, Florida May 12
Aaron Kelly April 2, 1993 17 Sonestown, Pennsylvania Orlando, Florida May 5
Tim Urban May 1, 1989 21 Duncanville, Texas Dallas, Texas April 21
Andrew Garcia October 8, 1985 24 Moreno Valley, California Los Angeles, California April 14

Top 12 – The Rolling Stones

Order Contestant Song (original artist when applicable) Result
1 Michael Lynche "Miss You" Safe
2 Didi Benami "Play with Fire" Safe
3 Casey James "It's All Over Now" (The Valentinos) Safe
4 Lacey Brown "Ruby Tuesday" Eliminated
5 Andrew Garcia "Gimme Shelter" Safe
6 Katie Stevens "Wild Horses" Safe
7 Tim Urban "Under My Thumb" Bottom 3
8 Siobhan Magnus "Paint It, Black" Safe
9 Lee DeWyze "Beast of Burden" Safe
10 Paige Miles "Honky Tonk Women" Bottom 3
11 Aaron Kelly "Angie" Safe
12 Crystal Bowersox "You Can't Always Get What You Want" Safe

Top 11 – Billboard Number 1 Hits

Mentor: Miley Cyrus

Order Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Lee DeWyze "The Letter" (The Box Tops) Safe
2 Paige Miles "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" (Phil Collins) Eliminated
3 Tim Urban "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" (Queen) Bottom 3
4 Aaron Kelly "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" (Aerosmith) Safe
5 Crystal Bowersox "Me and Bobby McGee" (Roger Miller) Safe
6 Michael Lynche "When a Man Loves a Woman" (Percy Sledge) Safe
7 Andrew Garcia "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" (Marvin Gaye) Safe
8 Katie Stevens "Big Girls Don't Cry" (Fergie) Bottom 3
9 Casey James "The Power of Love" (Huey Lewis and the News) Safe
10 Didi Benami "You're No Good" (Betty Everett) Safe
11 Siobhan Magnus "Superstition" (Stevie Wonder) Safe

Top 10 – R&B/Soul

Mentor: Usher

Order Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Siobhan Magnus "Through the Fire" (Chaka Khan) Safe
2 Casey James "Hold On, I'm A Comin'" (Sam & Dave) Safe
3 Michael Lynche "Ready for Love" (India.Arie) Safe
4 Didi Benami "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" (Jimmy Ruffin) Eliminated
5 Tim Urban "Sweet Love" (Anita Baker) Bottom 3
6 Andrew Garcia "Forever" (Chris Brown) Safe
7 Katie Stevens "Chain of Fools" (Aretha Franklin) Bottom 3
8 Lee DeWyze "Treat Her Like a Lady" (Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose) Safe
9 Crystal Bowersox "Midnight Train to Georgia" (Cissy Houston) Safe
10 Aaron Kelly "Ain't No Sunshine" (Bill Withers) Safe

Top 9 (first week) – Lennon/McCartney Songbook

Mentor: N/A

Order Contestant Song (original artist when applicable) Result
1 Aaron Kelly "The Long and Winding Road" Bottom 3
2 Katie Stevens "Let It Be" Safe
3 Andrew Garcia "Can't Buy Me Love" Bottom 3
4 Michael Lynche "Eleanor Rigby" Saved
5 Crystal Bowersox "Come Together" Safe
6 Tim Urban "All My Loving" Safe
7 Casey James "Jealous Guy" (John Lennon) Safe
8 Siobhan Magnus "Across the Universe" Safe
9 Lee DeWyze "Hey Jude" Safe

Top 9 (second week) – Elvis Presley

Mentor: Adam Lambert

Order Contestant Song (original artist when applicable) Result
1 Crystal Bowersox "Saved" (LaVern Baker) Safe
2 Andrew Garcia "Hound Dog" (Big Mama Thornton) Eliminated
3 Tim Urban "Can't Help Falling in Love" Safe
4 Lee DeWyze "A Little Less Conversation" Safe
5 Aaron Kelly "Blue Suede Shoes" (Carl Perkins) Safe
6 Siobhan Magnus "Suspicious Minds" (Mark James) Safe
7 Michael Lynche "In the Ghetto" Safe
8 Katie Stevens "Baby What You Want Me to Do" (Jimmy Reed) Eliminated
9 Casey James "Lawdy Miss Clawdy" (Lloyd Price) Safe

Top 7 – Inspirational Songs

Mentor: Alicia Keys

Order Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Casey James "Don't Stop" (Fleetwood Mac) Bottom 3
2 Lee DeWyze "The Boxer" (Simon & Garfunkel) Safe
3 Tim Urban "Better Days" (Goo Goo Dolls) Eliminated
4 Aaron Kelly "I Believe I Can Fly" (R. Kelly) Bottom 3
5 Siobhan Magnus "When You Believe" (Mariah Carey & Whitney Houston) Safe
6 Michael Lynche "Hero" (Chad Kroeger feat. Josey Scott) Safe
7 Crystal Bowersox "People Get Ready" (The Impressions) Safe

Top 6 – Shania Twain

Mentor: Shania Twain

Order Contestant Song Result
1 Lee DeWyze "You're Still the One" Safe
2 Michael Lynche "It Only Hurts When I'm Breathing" Bottom 3
3 Casey James "Don't!" Bottom 3
4 Crystal Bowersox "No One Needs to Know" Safe
5 Aaron Kelly "You've Got a Way" Safe
6 Siobhan Magnus "Any Man of Mine" Eliminated

Top 5 – Frank Sinatra

Mentor: Harry Connick, Jr.

Order Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Aaron Kelly "Fly Me to the Moon" (Kaye Ballard) Eliminated
2 Casey James "Blue Skies" (Belle Baker) Safe
3 Crystal Bowersox "Summer Wind" (Wayne Newton) Safe
4 Michael Lynche "The Way You Look Tonight" (Fred Astaire) Bottom 2
5 Lee DeWyze "That's Life" (Frank Sinatra) Safe

Top 4 – Songs of the Cinema

Mentor: Jamie Foxx

Each contestant sang one solo and one duet with a fellow contestant.

Order Contestant Song (original artist) Featured Film Result
1 Lee DeWyze "Kiss from a Rose" (Seal) Batman Forever Safe
2 Michael Lynche "Will You Be There" (Michael Jackson) Free Willy Eliminated
3 Crystal Bowersox & Lee DeWyze "Falling Slowly" (Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová) Once N/A
4 Casey James "Mrs. Robinson" (Simon & Garfunkel) The Graduate Safe
5 Crystal Bowersox "I'm Alright" (Kenny Loggins) Caddyshack Safe
6 Casey James & Michael Lynche "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?" (Bryan Adams) Don Juan DeMarco N/A

Top 3 – Contestant's choice & Judges' choice

Each contestant sang two songs.

Order Contestant Song (original artist) — Judge(s) Result
1 Casey James "OK, It's Alright with Me" (Eric Hutchinson) Eliminated
2 Crystal Bowersox "Come to My Window" (Melissa Etheridge) Safe
3 Lee DeWyze "Simple Man" (Lynyrd Skynyrd) Safe
4 Casey James "Daughters" (John Mayer) — Randy Jackson & Kara DioGuardi Eliminated
5 Crystal Bowersox "Maybe I'm Amazed" (Paul McCartney) — Ellen DeGeneres Safe
6 Lee DeWyze "Hallelujah" (Leonard Cohen) — Simon Cowell Safe

Finale – Contestant's choice, Simon Fuller's choice & winner's single

Each contestant sang three songs.

Order Contestant Song (original artist) Result
1 Lee DeWyze "The Boxer" (Simon & Garfunkel) Winner
2 Crystal Bowersox "Me and Bobby McGee" (Roger Miller) Runner-Up
3 Lee DeWyze "Everybody Hurts" (R.E.M.) Winner
4 Crystal Bowersox "Black Velvet" (Alannah Myles) Runner-Up
5 Lee DeWyze "Beautiful Day" (U2) Winner
6 Crystal Bowersox "Up to the Mountain (MLK Song)" (Solomon Burke) Runner-Up

Elimination chart

Legend
Top 24 Top 12 Winner
Safe Safe First Safe Last Eliminated Judges' Save
Stage: Semi-Finals Finals
Week: 2/25 3/4 3/11 3/17 3/24 3/31 4/7[n 1] 4/14[n 2] 4/21 4/28 5/5 5/12 [n 3] 5/19 [n 4] 5/26
Place Contestant Result
1 Lee DeWyze Winner
2 Crystal Bowersox Runner-up
3 Casey James Bottom 3 Bottom 3 Elim
4 Michael Lynche Saved Bottom 3 Bottom 2 Elim
5 Aaron Kelly Bottom 3 Bottom 3 Elim
6 Siobhan Magnus Elim
7 Tim Urban Bottom 3 Bottom 3 Bottom 3 Elim
8 Katie Stevens Bottom 3 Bottom 3 Elim
9 Andrew Garcia Bottom 3
10 Didi Benami Elim
11 Paige Miles Bottom 3 Elim
12 Lacey Brown Elim
13-16 Lilly Scott Elim
Alex Lambert
Todrick Hall
Katelyn Epperly
17-20 Haeley Vaughn Elim
Michelle Delamor
Jermaine Sellers
John Park
21-24 Tyler Grady Elim
Ashley Rodriguez
Joe Muñoz
Janell Wheeler

Results night performances

Group songs

Results show performances

Week Performer(s) Title Hot 100 Reaction Hot Digital Songs Reaction Performance Type
Top 24 Allison Iraheta "Scars" failed to chart TBA live performance
Kris Allen "Let It Be"[n 5] 63 (debut) TBA live performance
Top 20 Danny Gokey "My Best Days Are Ahead of Me" 82 (debut) 63 (debut) live performance
Top 16 Matt Giraud and Scott MacIntyre "Tell Her About It" no release N/A live performance
Top 12 David Cook "Jumpin' Jack Flash" failed to chart TBA live performance
Orianthi "According to You" 19(-1) 23(+9) live performance
Kesha feat. 3OH!3 "Blah Blah Blah" 15(+1) 10(-1) pre-recorded performance
Top 11 Miley Cyrus "When I Look at You" 25(+33) 12(+19) live performance
Joe Jonas and Demi Lovato "Make a Wave" fell off chart TBA live performance
Top 10 Ruben Studdard "Don't Make 'Em Like U No More" failed to chart TBA live performance
Usher and will.i.am "OMG" 14 (debut) 7 (debut) pre-recorded performance
Diddy-Dirty Money "Hello Good Morning" 34 (debut) 17 (debut) live performance
Top 9
(Week 1)		 Jason Derülo "In My Head" ("Whatcha Say" intro) 5(+4) 6(+5) live performance
David Archuleta "Imagine" no release N/A live performance
Rihanna with Nuno Bettencourt "Rockstar 101" failed to chart failed to chart pre-recorded performance
Top 9
(Week 2)		 Brooke White and Justin Gaston (from If I Can Dream) "If I Can Dream" failed to chart failed to chart live performance
Adam Lambert "Whataya Want from Me" 10(+13) 8(+21) live performance
Top 7 Alicia Keys "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)"
"Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down"		 58(+25) TBA live performance
Black Eyed Peas "Rock That Body" unreleased TBA live performance
Carrie Underwood "Change" unreleased 51,000 (+ 2001%) live performance
Elton John "Your Song" no release TBA live performance
Mary J. Blige (feat. Randy Jackson, Orianthi, Travis Barker, Steve Vai and others) "Stairway to Heaven" no release TBA live performance
Top 6 Rascal Flatts "Unstoppable" 60(+6) TBA live performance
Sons of Sylvia "Love Left to Lose" 101 (debut) TBA pre-recorded performance
Lady Antebellum "Need You Now" 5(-1) 9(-1) pre-recorded performance
Shakira & Rascal Flatts "Gypsy" 65 (debut) 48 (debut) live performance
Top 5 Lady Gaga "Alejandro" ("Bad Romance" intro) 11(+5) 9(+4) pre-recorded performance
Harry Connick, Jr. "And I Love Her" no release TBA live performance
Top 4 Fantasia "Bittersweet" failed to chart TBA live performance
Daughtry "September" failed to chart TBA live performance
Bon Jovi "Superman Tonight" failed to chart TBA live performance
Top 3 Travis Garland "Believe" failed to chart TBA live performance
Justin Bieber "U Smile" / "Baby" 38(no change) 24(+3) pre-recorded performance
Finale Will Young "Leave Right Now"[n 6] 81 (debut) 50 (debut) live performance
Alice Cooper "School's Out" ineligible to re-enter ineligible to re-enter live performance
Kris Allen "The Truth" failed to chart failed to chart live performance
Dane Cook "Simon Said" no release no release live performance
Christina Aguilera "You Lost Me" no release no release live performance
Carrie Underwood "Undo It" 25(+34) 18(+43) live performance
Larry Platt feat. William Hung "Pants on the Ground" failed to re-enter failed to re-enter live performance
American Idols[n 7] "Together We Are One" no release no release live performance
Janet Jackson "Again"/"Nothing" / "Nasty" ineligible to re-enter/ no release ineligible to re-enter/failed to chart live performance

Controversies

Chris Golightly

Chris Golightly was originally selected as semi-finalist. According to reports, Chris was disqualified on February 17, 2010, after already being told he was in the top 24, over an old contract. The contract had expired by the time the top 24 began to tape, but they disqualified him because he was under contract at the time of the tryouts, in violation of Idol rules. He was later replaced by Tim Urban at the last minute of the last part of Hollywood Week.[31]

Ryan Seacrest's Twitter post

Lacey Brown's elimination stirred up controversy after Ryan Seacrest tweeted the results before the elimination aired on the west coast.[32] This caused anger among the fans of the show and as a result, the elimination show may have had lower ratings than usual.[33][34]

Criticism of Ryan Seacrest

Seacrest has been criticized by The Wrap and MSNBC Entertainment contributors for "critiquing the judges’ comments" and becoming more aggressive.[35][36] Ratings for the 9th season have dropped significantly compared to the prior two seasons[37] leading to speculation that its run as the number one show on television may be coming to a close.[38] Reasons for the decline have ranged from the smaller role and pending departure of Simon Cowell to the more unpredictable behavior of Ryan Seacrest.[39]

US Nielsen ratings

See Also

Notes

  1. ↑ Due to the judges using their one save, in order to save Michael Lynche, the Top 9 remained intact for another week.
  2. ↑ The bottom two were eliminated on April 14. The other member of the bottom three was never identified, though Seacrest made a point of indicating that previously-saved Michael Lynche was not the other member.
  3. ↑ The other member of the Bottom 2 was never announced, despite Crystal Bowersox was the last contestant to be named safe.
  4. ↑ Lee DeWyze was named safe first, then Crystal Bowersox.
  5. ↑ Kris Allen's rendition of "Let It Be" was made available on iTunes for download, with all proceeds going to Haiti charities.
  6. ↑ Will Young performed at the end of the performance show on May 25, 2010.
  7. ↑ The group that sang Delta Goodrem's "Together We Are One" consisted of many previous American Idol contestants, including winners Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks, Taylor Hicks, and Kris Allen.

References

  1. ↑ Kate Stanhope. "Fox Lines Up Midseason Premieres". TVGuide.com. http://www.tvguide.com/News/Fox-Lines-Midseason-1012574.aspx. 
  2. ↑ Daniel Kaszor (September 10, 2009). "Ellen Degeneres new permanent judge on American Idol". National Post. http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theampersand/archive/2009/09/10/ellen-degeneres-new-permanent-judge-on-american-idol.aspx. Retrieved September 10, 2009. 
  3. ↑ Mitchell, Wendy (October 6, 2009). "'Idol Gives Back' will return to 'American Idol' on April 21". EW.com. http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/10/06/idol-gives-back-will-return-to-american-idol-on-april-21/. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Michael Slezak (December 22, 2009). "'American Idol' season 9: 24 semifinalists, no 'Wild Card' round, and a February 23 voting kickoff". EW.com. http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/12/22/american-idol-season-9-dates-details/. Retrieved January 2, 2010. 
  5. ↑ By LYNN ELBER, AP Television Writer. "Cowell says he's leaving 'Idol' for 'X Factor'". Yahoo! TV. http://tv.yahoo.com/american-idol/show/34934/news/tv-news.en.ap.org/tv-news.en.ap.org-20100111-us_tv_fox_cowell. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  6. ↑ Sep 3 Kara DioGuardi not returning to 'American Idol': It's (finally) official
  7. ↑ Ellen DeGeneres Bows Out of American Idol
  8. ↑ Wyatt, Edward (August 5, 2009). "Abdul Walks Off Television’s Biggest Stage". The New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/06/arts/television/06abdul.html?_r=1&src=twt&twt=nytimes. 
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 ""American Idol": Shania Twain will be the next guest judge.". EW.com. http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/08/17/american-idol-shania-twain-rumored-next-guest-judge/. Retrieved August 17, 2009. 
  10. ↑ "Mary J. Blige to Be a Guest Judge on American Idol". People.com. August 14, 2009. http://tvwatch.people.com/2009/08/14/mary-j-blige-to-be-a-guest-judge-on-american-idol/. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  11. ↑ "Neil Patrick Harris signs on to guest judge 'American Idol'". LA Times. August 25, 2009. http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/showtracker/2009/08/neil-patrick-harris-signs-on-to-judge-american-idol.html. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  12. ↑ "American Idol's Next Guest Judge Revealed". People. August 27, 2009. http://tvwatch.people.com/2009/08/27/american-idols-next-guest-judge-revealed/. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  13. ↑ Ausiello, Michael (August 6, 2009). "Press Tour Diary: Katy Perry, Posh Spice to (temporarily) replace Abdul on 'Idol'". EW.com. http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/08/06/press-tour-diary-executive-session/. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  14. ↑ "Ellen DeGeneres Joins American Idol as Fourth Judge". Americanidol.com. September 9, 2009. http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1841. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  15. ↑ Daniel Kreps. "Simon Cowell Near New Deal to Stay On “Idol,” Import “X Factor” : Rolling Stone : Rock and Roll Daily". Rolling Stone. http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2009/09/24/simon-cowell-near-new-deal-to-stay-on-idol-import-x-factor/. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  16. ↑ "Season 9 Auditions - American Idol News". Americanidol.com. June 3, 2009. http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1737. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  17. ↑ "Victoria becomes Idol judge.". BBC News. August 13, 2009. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8199443.stm/. Retrieved August 19, 2009. 
  18. ↑ "'So why did you turn down the Spice Girls?': Victoria Beckham grills Simon Cowell as she joins American Idol". The Daily Mail. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1205713/Simon-Cowell-did-turn-Spice-Girls-Victoria-Beckham-joins-American-Idol.html. Retrieved August 19, 2009. 
  19. ↑ "Posh lands a fat £3m pay deal for American Idol". The Daily Mail. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1206865/Posh-Spice-lands-fat-3m-pay-deal-American-Idol-chances-success-look-slim.html. Retrieved August 19, 2009. 
  20. ↑ Release says Boston; arena is actually in Foxborough.
  21. ↑ Release says Los Angeles; arena is actually in Pasadena. Though its part of Los Angeles metropolitan area.
  22. ↑ Release says Dallas; arena is actually in Arlington. Though its part of Dallas metropolitan area.
  23. ↑ Golden Ticket Interviews American Idol
  24. ↑ Payne, Bob (February 8, 2010). ""American Idol" hopeful from Seattle didn't make it to Hollywood afterall". The Seattle Times. http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/idolconfessions/2011019702_idolhayes08.html. Retrieved February 10, 2010. 
  25. ↑ "TOP 24 CONTESTANTS". American Idol. http://www.americanidol.com/contestants/season_9/. Retrieved 10 March 2010. 
  26. ↑ Byrne, Katie (25 February 2010). "'American Idol' Reveals New Exit Song: 'Leave Right Now'". MTV. http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1632697/20100225/index.jhtml. Retrieved 28 April 2010. 
  27. ↑ Crystal Bowersox could be a game-time decision tonight USA Today, March 3, 2010
  28. ↑ Although the American Idol website lists Siobhan Magnus' hometown as Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Siobhan is specifically from Marstons Mills, Massachusetts, a village in the town of Barnstable, Massachusetts within Cape Cod, Massachusetts. "'American Idol' worship at Barnstable High". CapeCodOnline.com. March 13, 2010. http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100313/NEWS/3130311. Retrieved March 16, 2010. 
  29. ↑ "Get To Know Lee DeWyze". Americanidol.com. http://www.americanidol.com/videos/season_9/lee_DeWyze/get_to_know_lee_DeWyze/. Retrieved March 16, 2010. 
  30. ↑ "American Idol Gives Back - Keeping The Dream Alive - Top Contestants Perform". YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=US&client=mv-google&hl=en&v=mjanp1Ajhzg. Retrieved 5 June 2010. 
  31. ↑ Kaufman, Gil (February 18, 2010). "Chris Golightly Disqualified From 'American Idol' Top 24". MTV. http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1632112/20100218/story.jhtml. Retrieved February 8, 2010. 
  32. ↑ Ryan Seacrest spoiler ignites Twitter revolt March 18, 2010 The Los Angeles Times.
  33. ↑ 'Idol' suffers historic ratings low after Seacrest spoils it March 18, 2010 The Washington Post
  34. ↑ 'American Idol': Ryan Seacrest spoils results show on Twitter March 18, 2010 Entertainment Weekly
  35. ↑ "‘Idol’s’ problem isn’t Ellen anymore — it’s Ryan". MSN. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36449260/ns/entertainment-reality_tv/. Retrieved 5 June 2010. 
  36. ↑ "Forget Simon — ‘Idol’s’ all about Ryan now". MSN. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36599777/ns/entertainment-reality_tv. Retrieved 5 June 2010. 
  37. ↑ "American Idol" Ratings Down, but Ad Sales Seen Up”
  38. ↑ ‘American Idol’ Ratings Hit a Low Mark“
  39. ↑ “It's time for producers to fix 'American Idol,' and here's how”
  40. ↑ "TV Ratings: 'American Idol' opens to 30 million; 'NCIS' stays strong". Zap2it. January 13, 2010. http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/01/tv-ratings-american-idol-opens-to-30-million-ncis-stays-strong.html. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  41. ↑ "TV Ratings: 'American Idol' falls but still rules Wednesday". Zap2it. January 14, 2010. http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/01/tv-ratings-american-idol-falls-but-still-rules-wednesday.html. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  42. ↑ "TV Ratings: 'American Idol' drops, still dominates Tuesday". Zap2it. January 20, 2010. http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/01/tv-ratings-american-idol-drops-still-dominates-tuesday.html. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  43. ↑ Gorman, Bill (January 21, 2010). "Wednesday Broadcast Finals: Idol, Modern Family Up; Gary, Criminal Minds, CSI:NY Down". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/01/21/wednesday-broadcast-finals-idol-modern-family-up-gary-criminal-minds-csiny-down/39718. Retrieved January 22, 2010. 
  44. ↑ Gorman, Bill (January 27, 2010). "TV Ratings Tuesday: Fox, American Idol Win As Most Shows Fall; NCIS:LA Bounces Back". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/01/27/tv-ratings-tuesday-fox-american-idol-slips-still-wins-as-most-shows-fall-ncisla-bounces-back/40319. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
  45. ↑ 'Idol' drops; State of the Union TBA The Hollywood Reporter, January 28, 2010
  46. ↑ "TV Ratings: Good start for 'Lost' as 'Idol' tops Tuesday". Zap2it. February 3, 2010. http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/02/tv-ratings-good-start-for-lost-as-idol-tops-tuesday.html. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  47. ↑ "Listings - AMERICAN IDOL on FOX". The Futon Critic. http://www.thefutoncritic.com/listings.aspx?id=20100122fox02. Retrieved January 21, 2010. 
  48. ↑ Gorman, Bill (February 4, 2010). "Wednesday Broadcast Final Ratings; Idol Ticks Up, Ugly Betty Ticks Down". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/04/wednesday-broadcast-final-ratings-idol-ticks-up-ugly-betty-ticks-down/41128. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
  49. ↑ "TV Ratings: 'Idol' strong, 'Past Life' fades Tuesday". Zap2it. February 10, 2010. http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/02/tv-ratings-idol-strong-past-life-fades-tuesday.html. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  50. ↑ Gorman, Bill (February 10, 2010). "Broadcast Finals: ABC’s Entire Lineup Drops By 1/10th with Adults 18-49; Criminal Minds, CSI: NY Drop". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/11/broadcast-finals-abcs-entire-lineup-drops-by-110th-with-adults-18-49-criminal-minds-csi-ny-drop/41810. Retrieved February 10, 2010. 
  51. ↑ Seidman, Robert (February 17, 2010). "TV Ratings: Idol Races Past Olympic Coverage; Lost Holds Up". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/17/tv-ratings-idol-races-past-olympic-coverage/42190. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  52. ↑ Seidman, Robert (February 18, 2010). "TV Ratings: Lindsey Vonn Snatches Ratings Gold Away From American Idol". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/18/tv-ratings-lindsey-vonn-snatched-ratings-gold-away-from-american-idol-for-first-time-in-6-years/42324. Retrieved February 18, 2010. 
  53. ↑ Gorman, Bill (February 24, 2010). "TV Ratings: American Idol Buries Winter Olympics; Lost Inches Up". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/24/tv-ratings-american-idol-buries-winter-olympics-lost-inches-up/42881. Retrieved February 25, 2010. 
  54. ↑ Seidman, Robert (February 25, 2010). "TV Ratings: American Idol Pummels Olympics Again With Adults 18-49". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/25/tv-ratings-american-idol-pummels-olympics-again-with-adults-18-49/43001. Retrieved February 25, 2010. 
  55. ↑ Gorman, Bill (February 26, 2010). "TV Ratings: American Idol Wins Again; Winter Olympics Down From Torino". http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/02/26/tv-ratings-american-idol-wins-again-winter-olympics-down-from-torino/43116. Retrieved March 11, 2010. 
  56. ↑ Gorman, Bill (March 3, 2010). "Tuesday Broadcast Finals & Parenthood 15 Minute Breakdown". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/03/tuesday-broadcast-finals-parenthood-15-minute-breakdown/43796. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
  57. ↑ Seidman, Robert (March 11, 2010). "TV Ratings: American Idol Down, But Still Dominates; Modern Family Rebounds". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/11/tv-ratings-american-idol-down-but-still-dominate-modern-family-rebounds-human-target-still-on-the-bubble/446069. Retrieved April 1, 2010. 
  58. ↑ Gorman, Bill (March 12, 2010). "TV Ratings: American Idol Leads Fox Win; Marriage Ref Loses Yardage". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/12/tv-ratings-american-idolmarriage-ref-loses-yardage/44704. Retrieved March 14, 2010. 
  59. ↑ Seidman, Robert (March 18, 2010). "Wednesday Broadcast Finals: “Ugly Betty, Gary Unmarried” Inch Up". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/18/wednesday-broadcast-finals-ugly-betty-gary-unmarried-inch-up/45430. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
  60. ↑ Gorman, Bill (March 24, 2010). "Tuesday Finals: Lost, American Idol Up; V Clip Show Falls". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/24/tuesday-finals-lost-up-v-clip-show-falls/46017. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
  61. ↑ Seidman, Robert (March 25, 2010). "Broadcast Finals: The Middle, Modern Family, Idol, Survivor, ANTM Rise". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/25/broadcast-finals-the-middle-modern-family-idol-survivor-antm-rise/46117. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
  62. ↑ Gorman, Bill (March 31, 2009). "TV Ratings: Idol Dominates; V Returns Down A Bit". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/31/tv-ratings-idol-dominates-v-returns-down-a-bit/46784. Retrieved April 1, 2010. 
  63. ↑ Seidman, Robert (March 31, 2010). "“The Middle,” “Modern Family,” and “American Idol” Rise In Wednesday Broadcast Finals". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/01/the-middle-modern-family-and-american-idol-rise-in-wednesday-broadcast-finals/47069. Retrieved April 1, 2010. 
  64. ↑ Seidman, Robert (April 7, 2010). "Broadcast Finals: “Lost,” “NCIS,” “NCIS: LA” Tick Up; “V,” “The Good Wife” Tick Down". TV by the Numbers. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/07/broadcast-finals-lost-ncis-ncis-la-tick-up-v-the-good-wife-tick-down/47689. Retrieved May 25, 2010. 
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  79. ↑ "Ratings: Idol Finale Hits Lowest Rating Ever". http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2010/05/27/ratings-idol-finale-hits-lowest-rating/. 

External links

Preceded by
Season 8 (2009)		 American Idol
Season 9 (2010)		 Succeeded by
Season 10 (2011)
American Idol season 9
Finalists
Lee DeWyze • Crystal Bowersox • Casey James • Michael Lynche • Aaron Kelly • Siobhan Magnus • Tim Urban • Katie Stevens • Andrew Garcia • Didi Benami • Paige Miles • Lacey Brown
Related articles
Episode list · Tour · American Idol Season 9 · "Beautiful Day"
American Idol
Seasons
1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · 6 · 7 · 8 · 9 · 10
Hosts
Ryan Seacrest · Brian Dunkleman (2002)
Judges
Randy Jackson · Paula Abdul (2002–2009) · Simon Cowell (2002–2010) · Kara DioGuardi (2009–2010) · Ellen DeGeneres (2010) · Jennifer Lopez (2011–present) · Steven Tyler (2011–present)
Winners
Kelly Clarkson · Ruben Studdard · Fantasia Barrino · Carrie Underwood · Taylor Hicks · Jordin Sparks · David Cook · Kris Allen · Lee DeWyze
Winners' singles
"A Moment Like This" · "Flying Without Wings" · "I Believe" · "Inside Your Heaven" · "Do I Make You Proud" · "This Is My Now" · "The Time of My Life" · "No Boundaries" · "Beautiful Day"
Runners-up
Justin Guarini · Clay Aiken · Diana DeGarmo · Bo Bice · Katharine McPhee · Blake Lewis · David Archuleta · Adam Lambert · Crystal Bowersox
Other alumni
Josh Gracin · Jennifer Hudson · Elliott Yamin · Chris Daughtry · Kellie Pickler
Spin-offs
From Justin to Kelly · Juniors · Christmas · Extra · Rewind
Related articles
World Idol · Underground · Compilation series · Controversies · Discography · Hot 100 singles · Episodes · Idol series · Magazine · Alumni album sales · Alumni single sales · Alumni awards and nominations · Video game · The American Idol Experience · Idol Gives Back