“American Idol” Stunner Forces Judges’ Hand

Friday, 25 March 2011 | by Pat's Picks

A quick note about the “American Idol” stunner last night. If you haven’t seen it yet, SPOILER ALERT

The judges were forced to use their one “save” very early in the season, when the at-home voters eliminated one of the best contestants in the competition this year, Casey Abrams.

I’m giving America the benefit of the doubt after last night’s ludicrous decision. I can only assume this was an accidental outcome, that a lot people assumed Casey would advance and, as a result, sent their voting support elsewhere. Hopefully, this close call will solidify his support, because he deserves at least a top five finish. Yes, it’s a strong field this year on “Idol,” but there’s no question he’s near the top of the group.

I have another theory about what transpired last night. Don’t get me wrong, I like the addition of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler to the panel of judges. But they’re more often cheerleaders than critics in their post-performance comments. And I think ultimately, that may have worked against Casey. If the judges were firmer about ranking the performances each week, the voters at home might have been less inclined to vote for some of the weaker contestants.

Here’s Abrams performing his “good-bye” performance, only to be stopped by Randy and told he was safe. Below is his great “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” from earlier in the evening: