http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx"American Idol" pulled a fast one last night. After host Ryan Seacrest repeatedly promised a shocking finale, the show decided "shocking" could mean "we changed the rules." On "Idol's" big charity show, it was decided that it wouldn't be charitable toen-USCommunityServer 2.0 (Build: 60608.1)http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#170605Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:47:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:170605Patrick, Atlanta, GeorgiaI thought the Celine and Elvis number was entertaining enough. Better than other crap we are forced to flip thru on t.v. every other night.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#170662Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:54:22 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:170662Marsha Bradley ILI would not have watched if I knew there was not going to be ab elimination. I know there are many people in desperate times , however I prefer to help those in my own area.I hope that they did collect a huge amount of money from those wanting and able to help. Maybe they could have ran a chairty only special on another night and went ahead with sending someone home. I thought the Elvis thing was no better or worse than when Natalie Cole "sang" with her Father. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#170735Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:03:29 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:170735Christina, Los Angeles, CAI can honestly say I wouldn't have watched had I known there would be no one going home. Elvis was cool, a little creepy, and very expected. The Simpsons dissing Simon was my favorite part of the night.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#170875Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:33:42 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:170875Sally Smith, Birmingham, AlabamaIt was more than bad, it was down right UGLY to treat Jordin Sparks that way. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#170886Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:35:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:170886John, Enfiedl, CTLast Night's show reminded me of the CBS reality show "Survivor", when they send nobody home, due to unfortunate circumstances. A new idol voting system to be changed to the way Survivor votes out its castawasy and have them form a jury of voted out contestants should determine who wins the American Idol Title.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#170957Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:58:03 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:170957tara doe, billings, montanai thought it was a touching show. I thought it was horrible what those children had to go through, and if idol wanted to use up two hours of time to make those childrens lives better even if only for a day, then GOD BLESS THEM! I also thought that the contestants all deserved to be there another week, they deserve a break as well. How can anyone be so self centered? We're talking about human lives here, i commend idol for raising money and awareness.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171069Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:36:51 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171069shelley, milwaukee, WIIt was an ambitious effort, the special AI charity show. I applaud the intention and hopefully, some insights were gained by the huge audience of the show. I am naive enough to think that Jordin was truly in fear of being sent home, which despite the larger, very important theme of the show, would be a long time to sit and wonder and be under such pressure. I HOPE they were told in advance that no one was leaving, so they could ALL soak in and enjoy the specialness of the show and the whole experience. And I thought the Elvis 'appearance' was awesome. They could have skipped Celine -- though she did an excellent job, toned it down to match the song and her 'partner's amazing performance ... nearly 40 years later, NO ONE is better. Never will be another ... A stupendous visual/video trick to pull that off so realistically. Thanks to the EP estate for allowing the use of that very dramatic, and for Elvis fans everywhere, cherished, song and performance. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171081Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:39:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171081Heather, Alexandria, VAI thought the whole thing was a bit contrived. And I'm sure the contestants knew what was going to happen ... they had a song prepared to sing at the end when someone would have been singing thier song for the last time. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171195Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:20:59 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171195Melissa, Saint Louis, MOI'm glad noone went home... but it does make me wonder if that was set up before-hand, or if possibly Jordin really did get the lowest amount of votes but the producers wanted to keep her around a little longer. Hopefully everyone that was outraged that she was in the bottom two (even if that was fake) will vote for her next week!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171202Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:23:08 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171202myrtle beach scwas very disapointed that ryan (not seaCREST) was not given any credit whatsoever for his part in the elvis celine duet.. he is a fantastic impersonater and should have been acknowleged.. we all looked forward to seeing him but didnot .. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171207Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:24:07 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171207Georgene LuserAfter such a touching show,what Idol did to Jordin makes one wonder where your hearts really are! Shame on you for spoiling what had been a night based on kndness to others!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171220Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:26:57 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171220Kelley, Eastlake, OHI loved the special effects with Elvis and Celine. There will NEVER be another IDOL like Elvis and it was very exciting to see. I thought that Simon looked a little uncomfortable when he was up on stage, he did not face the audience, maybe it was the emotion of it all. Those poor children and what they have to live through. Thank you to all the American Idol people for trying to make a difference.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171254Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:38:04 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171254theresa s.Carrie Underwood's video and song was the best part of the show- hands down,with josh groban coming in second. Carrie is an amazing singer and a wonderful person...and you could tell how moved she was in Africa. the kids loved her too. I think her rendition of I'll Stand by you is better then the original. I donated as a direct result of carrie and josh groban with the kids.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171353Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:23:23 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171353Bobbe Idaspe, Tucson, ArizonaI thoroughly enjoyed the show. Big deal, noone was eliminated.......so what! I thought the "duet" with The King and Ms. Celine was just great. Reminded me of Natalie Cole and her wonderful dad, the great Nat "King" Cole. Like Ellen, I too, was wondering where the likes of Michael Jordan, Howard "big mouth" Stern, Steinbrenner and the rest of the millionaires were. Guess they were watching basketball. Good show, American Idol......http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171378Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:37:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171378Josie HarimanThe ELVIS and Celine Dion song was amazing! ELVIS still is The SUPERSTAR that everyone else will try to reach, but no one is even close. The segment was AMAZING. American Idol is number one for a reason, they keep doing things right. The duet with ELVIS was much better than any done with singers from the past...ELVIS ACTUALLY "appeared" to WALK on stage with CELINE Dion,(although I love Natalie Cole, when she did a duet with her father, she appeared to be siniging to a video-screen. The ELVIS appearance with Celine Dion was AMAZING. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171465Fri, 27 Apr 2007 05:28:37 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171465Ed, Cascade Locks, ORSparks schmarks. Doolittle is it. Sparks' head is getting too tight trying to wear an Idol tiara. Her reaction to the whole thing was that of a spoiled little brat. Typically 17. On the plus side, Celine Dion's performance was tops, as always. She should be an Idol mentor. Powerful, verstile voice with perfect pitch. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171468Fri, 27 Apr 2007 05:29:30 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171468Kev, Azusa CAI thought it was the cheesiest of the cheese. Look closely during the Elvis thing. Sanjaya, all in white, was on stage. When was this thing taped? So...they must of known what would happen. Madonna's fake british accent was amusing, as always. News corp donating $5 million? Golly. What a windfall? What is that? 8 commercials? Those philanthropists. Whoa.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171540Fri, 27 Apr 2007 06:44:53 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171540Ann Rockwell,Evergreen,North CarolinaI felt the show was very touching. Idol did not have to give back and they done so by viewers giving along with top companies. The Elvis and Celine duet was heart touching and brought back beautiful memories. In my opinion Jordan was at first in shock. The poor girl thought she was going home. I do not think the contestants knew no one would be leaving. Thank you American Idol for waiting until the following week to send them home. I comend you for sparing them of seeing a friend go home after a very moving show. I wish I had a tape of that show. I would say AI put 110% in this taping.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171586Fri, 27 Apr 2007 08:25:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171586Diane, Raleigh, NCI think cynicism is not an appropriate response. We, as "back seat quarter backs", should instead go look, feel and smell the poverty that the IDOL community came together to try and make a dent in. Whether Jordin knew or not, Celine & Elvis great or too weird, or the show contrived or great, we have the privilege of turning it on, or clicking it off. We should look at the big picture, folks - all those millions of dollars helping out some kids in this world who are living in very bad circumstances. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171689Fri, 27 Apr 2007 11:55:16 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171689Mike, anchorage, akThe Jordin thing was a joke. First of all, she knew. She didn't look worried at all. Second, YT unabashedly told us that Jordin is the favorite. If anything, I felt bad for the other contestants. It was like they weren't even significant enough to be part of the big joke. (Don't get me wrong. I love Jordin!) As for Elvis-Celine, it was both creepy and cool. It looked odd, and Celine's acting left a little to be desired, but to hear one of the greatest female singers of our age paired with the best male singer of all time was a treat. I bought the ipod video, and it gets better every time I watch it. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171700Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:26:01 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171700Lori, Sharon, PAI thought the producers were unnecessarily mean to Jordin Sparks. Pick someone older to pick on - I think someone older and mature could have handled it better or pull some other prank. I did not like how the ending was handled at all.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171709Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:33:07 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171709CONNIE KINNEY ALBANY GAOK...have you peeps never watched american Idol before? They do this every year, that I have watched. I knew that it would probably happened this week as well. So i was not suprised at all. I did think that it was somewhat cruel to Jordin, but it was a heart stopper and that is what they were going for. As far as the ELVIS thing, I thought it was pretty cool! Our technology advancements are fantastic!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171721Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:43:59 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171721Jorge Cazares, Lubbock, TXI thought the charity part was amazing to see so many celebrities give their time to raise awareness and help raise funds for such horrible living conditions in Africa. The highlight of the night for me was seeing the very emotional performance of Josh Groban with the African Children's Choir on "You Raise Me Up" that song gets me everytime and those children are so good. We were fortunate enough to see them perform at a church here in Lubbock. They all have such ambition I pray that they get the chance to live out their dreams. On the Idol side, i was kinda bummed no one got eliminated, honesly i tuned in for the charity portion, not idol, but i was kinda worried about Jordin, I thought it was going to be another case of Chris Daughtry, and everyone thought she was safe. Thankfully it was just a mean prank. Unecessary, if you ask me. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171736Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:51:58 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171736Ell VincentI loved every minute of the show and hope they raised tons and tons of money for the children, both here and in Africa. The duet with Celine and Elvis was amazing, I thought it was an impersonator at first. Ellen's part with her guests were awesome (especially Il Divo). The Simpson's "Cowel" bit was really cool. The only thing I didn't like was the way they did the "non-elimination" ... poor Jordin nearly had a heart attack...that was nasty. As long as they combine the votes with next week's votes it will be totally fair. All in all it was a great two-hour show.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171755Fri, 27 Apr 2007 13:06:22 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171755Claire, Houston, TXi don't have any comment on the content of the post, other than the fact that "unnecessarily" is spelled wrong in your column.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171756Fri, 27 Apr 2007 13:06:35 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171756privateI thought the show was very self serving and ridiculous. Giving to charities is wonderful... but A-IDOL now has an ego the size of the Grand Canyon. I turned it off and I was glad I missed the Dion/ Elvis thing....sometimes it's just better to turn the TV off all together!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171783Fri, 27 Apr 2007 13:26:33 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171783sbr Kansas City MoThe contrived non elimination will garnish tons of sympathy votes for Jordan, skewing the final outcome. She is an enormously talented young lady but so are two others-and I think "the script" just guaranteed her the winnerhttp://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171804Fri, 27 Apr 2007 13:38:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171804Susie, Hartford, CTI agree they were needlessly cruel to Jordin Sparks hyping the elimination all the way through as a total shocker biggest shock ever on AI. This was a 17 year old who's emotions the producers toyed with. Shame on you Nigel Lithgoe.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171858Fri, 27 Apr 2007 14:09:19 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171858Beth, Englewood,NJThe "nobody goes home" surprise reminded me of how South Park infuriated fans by skipping part 2 of the "Who is Cartman's Father?" episode to air a nauseatingly unfunny half hour of "Terence and Phillip". But I think most AI vewers were tuning in to see the guest performers anyway, not for the voting results. And the Elvis thing was really creepy! I couldn't understand why the producers thought it would be a good idea to show him singing onstage with live performers...until my boyfriend reminded me that many people believe Elvis is still alive.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171859Fri, 27 Apr 2007 14:09:37 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171859Marilyn Bishop, Goshen, INFelt really bad for Jordin-was unnecessary to do that to her. Elvis and Celine-awesome. Paula's outfit-horrible-if I want to see boobs I will buy a magazine, wonder what parents thought with kids watching!! Nastyhttp://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171935Fri, 27 Apr 2007 14:51:59 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171935Laura KI loved the whole show. It was very moving and eye opening. It think it was fine they didn't kick anyone off this week, and I think the fact that they left Jordin for last is fine too. Come on...you know she is NOT going to be kicked off this early. I think it's going to be her and Melinda at the end. Idol was just going for the shock factor, and for a brief second they got what they wanted. I also really enjoyed the Elvis and Celine song. I was completely facsinated. All in all I think the whole night accomplished what it was supposed to, and that was to raise money for a noble and important cause.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171943Fri, 27 Apr 2007 14:56:18 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171943Steve, Springfield, Ill.I'm pretty sure the contestants -- and even the studio audience -- knew in advance there would be no eliminations. Witness the not-overly-relieved reactions of the other contestants when they were told they were "safe." But the biggest piece of evidence was the smattering of half-hearted cat calls in the audience when it looked like Jordin would be going home. Had they *really* thought she was being given the boot, there would have been a near-riot.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171948Fri, 27 Apr 2007 14:57:25 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171948Sue, Midland, TxOh give me a break. I cant believe anyone really thinks Jordin didnt know she wasnt going home. If you could not tell from the looks on her parents faces then you arent very smart. All the contestents knew. Why in the hell would they practice a son at the end of the show with Jordin singing first if they were going to send her home. Now that would have been cruel. The show was very entertaining and I really enjoyed every minute with the exception of Jordin and that fake crying. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171967Fri, 27 Apr 2007 15:03:44 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171967Chris, Ottawa Lake, MII, for one, haven't been watching "Idol" this season. There just hasn't been any contestant that I want to watch. I do read the updates online the following day. (it takes a lot less time than actually watching the show) That being said: I didn't see the Celine/Elvis "duet", but being a fan of neither, I can't say that I'm upset by that. While I didn't see the events around Jordin, I choose to believe that she knew about it going in. I choose to believe that, because I can't stand all of the shows that intentionally cause emotional distress in the name of (apparent) entertainment. All in all, I have to give credit to AI for the charity week. It solicited donations from people who normally wouldn't give, and boosted the NewsCorp bottom line at the same time. It was good business, and it helped more than if they had just written an anonymous check.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#171973Fri, 27 Apr 2007 15:05:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:171973B.A., Starkville, MSI was touched by the entire show. Thank you for bring more awareness to the dire situations of so many. I was amazed by the Celine/Elvis preformance. I was impressed than Celine seemed to take a backup performance position, out of respect to Elvis. She is such a strong, amazing proformer on her own, but showed such generosity to the memory of Elvis' performance. Class-act! I truly HOPE that all the idol contestants knew ahead of time that there would be no elimination on this program. Other than my worrying about their stress, I commend American Idol for their efforts and a purposeful program; well done. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172053Fri, 27 Apr 2007 15:41:30 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172053Ezzy Tacoma, WACruel to Jordin, my eye! The contestants knew the entire time that no one was going home. Even if they didn't they had to have figured it out by the time Ryan 'randomly' assured the first 3 they were safe. What is so random about the last 3 being the bottom 3? They didn't fool Jordin, they tried to fool the viewers. And they didn't do a great job of it, as most message boards were full of spoliers about the Elvis/Celine duet as well as the non-elimination by early Wednesday afternoon.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172069Fri, 27 Apr 2007 15:47:03 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172069John Doe, WashingtonObviously, the contestants were told in advance that no one was going home. They all had their separate mics ready for the last song before Chris was even announced 'safe'. No shocker at all. This isn't the first time AI has transferred the votes to next week just to eliminate 2 at that time. They have, however, set up Jordin to be absolutely safe next week, unless she trips off the stage or forgets half of her song (which is unlikely). She is in the prime sympathy vote seat because people don't pay attention to the signs all around, therefore thinking she was cruelly picked on, which she just wasn't. In general, the results show is 55 minutes of filler, with 5 minutes of excitement. Since I'm on the West Coast, I usually just read a blog 3 hours in advance to see who got voted off, since it airs on the East Coast first. I've had friends tell me 'but it's live! How can you know before it happens?' I was lucky enough to find a psychic website that can only see 3 hours into the future! ;-)http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172138Fri, 27 Apr 2007 16:12:16 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172138John, Austin, TXYou know, it's crazy to me that people are whining about how awfully Jordin was treated. Seriously, people, you just watched a show full of malnourished, under-privileged sick and dying people who have NOTHING. And you're concerned about some spoiled little rich kid getting her self esteem wrecked? I think she can handle it. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172144Fri, 27 Apr 2007 16:13:43 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172144Carol, Richmond, VAI thought the whole show was awesome and I think it's wonderful that AI raised so much money for the appalling conditions in Africa. I thought Elvis and Celine were cool. I do not believe that any of the contestants knew about the non-elimination. I felt bad for Jordan but she will be okay - she has an amazing voice and I love her. I also love Melinda and Chris so it should be an exciting finish.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172266Fri, 27 Apr 2007 16:56:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172266John Doe, Seattle, Washingtonit was so mean what they did to jordin!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172464Fri, 27 Apr 2007 18:28:07 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172464Kitty, Omaha, NEI have to say that the show did raise a lot of money for some very needy people and wasn't that what the bottom line called for? No one; not even most of the viewing audience was surprised that no one was sent home. No one should have been at any rate. I often say, how do we know if the votes are what determine who wins. we can't see them. Jordan was told to cry so she did; but she wasn't surprised. If she wins based on that; then this will be my last year watching American Idol. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172555Fri, 27 Apr 2007 19:17:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172555Jane Doe, Warwick RIIf Jordidn knew she was going to be safe, why was she crying so much after it looked like she was going home, and once she knew she was safe?http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172621Fri, 27 Apr 2007 19:42:14 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172621unanimous, las vegas, nevadaI enjoyed the show as always. But I know we have enough children in the United States to help and don't have to go abroad. Its all very sad but there are poor and mistreated children everyone. Don't we have enough at home to help or do we have to go elsewhere to find poor unfortunate children.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#172942Fri, 27 Apr 2007 22:51:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:172942Debo lexington,kyIt was nice, to see money raised for such a good cause. I hope it is spent wisely. I am an AI fan, but it is wearing thin. Maybe another year or two, and it will have runn its' course. Ellen did a great job. she hit the nail on the head. when she challenged her rich friends. BTW we all know who the top 3 idols are. don't we?http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#173024Fri, 27 Apr 2007 23:53:10 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:173024DonJordin was fortunate she was not sent home. Anyone who watched her song from the previous night heard one of the most out of tune renditions on Idol this season. Of course, if none of the remaining contestants was to be eliminated; the producers could have voted Celine/Elvis off. How tasteless was that? Celine does know that Elvis has been gone over 30 years, right?http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#173028Fri, 27 Apr 2007 23:56:22 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:173028R.R. Denver, COThe only way AI could pull it off, was to appear to place Jordon in the bottom three. "RANDOM order" were the key word's at the begining of the show. We all know that it would not have worked had they placed Melinda in that position. The rest of the contestants are all in an iffy placement. If you think that Jordon will win by a vote of sympathy, then you haven't heard her sing. The child is incredable and in a better age group to be an "Idol" than an almost 30 year old Melinda. Melinda is wonderful but her age stops me from backing her. Melinda and Jordon have been the favorites for weeks now. If Jordon's tears were fake, then she is also a wonderful actress. The show was great. We enjoyed every intense minute of it and my husband was inspired to make a donation.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#173093Sat, 28 Apr 2007 01:23:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:173093Cindy, Maryville, TNI thought the Elvis appearance was cool. Since I am pretty cynical, I was surprised at how entertaining the duet was to me. An older friend of mine recently died, and she was a HUGE Elvis fan. I really wished she had lived long enough to see that. She would have just enjoyed imagining that it was "real".http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#173576Sat, 28 Apr 2007 17:25:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:173576LA, Denver, COI watched the show on Tuesday so I could hear and see Jordin. She gets my vote for winner. I miss Sanjaya, but I'll keep looking for him elsewhere. I did not watch on Wednesday and I'm glad I didn't, especially after reading and hearing about it.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#173674Sat, 28 Apr 2007 21:28:41 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:173674Marli, Jacksonville, FloridaSo the questions still remains....which two were really in the bottom two???? I find it almost impossible to believe that Jordin was one of them. Are they going to let us know the truth next week? http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#173819Sun, 29 Apr 2007 02:02:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:173819Bruce FriedmanI watched the Celine/Elvis Duet over and over again on my HD DVR. I tied to figure out how they did it. I looked for wierd artifacts from a blue screen CGI, Thare was non. It was fantastic, this was an historic moment on TV. Bring back all the great Idols for an encore. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#174062Sun, 29 Apr 2007 11:46:43 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:174062Paul, Rochester, NYI also watched the two hour beg-a-thon for money. Why did Idol have to even combine the non-elimination of their singers with the charity event? They had enough stars and special events to get people to watch without making up a fake elimination. The charity event was entertaining with the Simpsons. I thought it was very touching as I watched Carrie Underwood singing and interacting with the underpriveledged kids. You can tell she has a big heart. Showing Simon having compassion for people was also a big shocker. Showing Paula's boobs coming out of her outfit was creepier than Elvis singing with Celine. I agree that AI has now skewed the results by giving Jordin sympathy votes because we don't know if the contestants knew ahead of time or not. One thinks they did because there was no audience reaction at the time. But I wondered, did Jordin get the least amount of votes? Did Blake get the second least? Will people over vote for them now? Did Jordin milk her nonelimination for all it's worth? Tune in next week.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#174366Sun, 29 Apr 2007 22:07:56 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:174366Letimoon, Laredo, TXThe only complaint I have with the show is it appears to have the same problem as does Dancing with the Stars - they need to restructure the manner in which votes are cast and counted. As it is now, these shows are more popularity contests, rather than dancing and/or singing contests. As for Wednesday's show, the bottom line was raising money for the needy, both in the US & abroad, which in my opinion was very successful. So what if they didn't send anyone home!!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#174395Sun, 29 Apr 2007 22:53:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:174395John Doe, Seattle, Wash.I didnt think it was fair that American Idol had people watch for 2-hrs knowing they werent sending a contestant home. I dont understand how this works this week. How can a contestant be eliminated on Wed from last weeks votes?? Will this same contestant be performing on Tues?? What if I vote for the contestant thats already eliminated?? Im confused how this is gonna work. I thought Ryan said our votes would count for this week, eliminating 2-contestants?? How?? Someone please clue me in. Thanks Im asking how my vote from last week counts for this week, considering the same contestant may perform on Tuesday. What if the contestant I vote for on Tuesady, was already eliminated from last weeks vote?? Idol did pull a fast one by asking ppl to vote for 4hrs, knowing no one being eliminated. good one Idol.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#175328Mon, 30 Apr 2007 18:14:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:175328Heidi, ILI thought the Elvis performance was pretty neat. Since I was born in 81, it felt cool that Elvis was "up on stage" in a "new" performance, which is something that obviously was never possible while I have been alive. Although i'm not a big fan of Celine and it was obvious that it didn't quite look real (wouldn't he have looked at her at some point if it was a real duet?) it was still a neat concept.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#175331Mon, 30 Apr 2007 18:15:56 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:175331Cecelia Benefield, Attalla, AlabamaI'm glad they reised the money and I'm glad no one was sent home, but I felt for Jordan also. I did try to donate, but could never get an open line. I like Elvis and Celine. She could sing with anybody and make it sound good. A part of me wished the show had just been about the six contestants. But I watched it and I'll watch it again to see what happens.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#175616Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:30:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:175616Mike Payne, Oklahoma City, OKI bet Nigel Lythgow, Simon Fuller, Simon Cowell, Ken Warwick, Fremantle Media, 19 Entertianment and any other affilates saw their "Idol" going home late Tuesday night and decided to come up with this "plan" in the name of charity to do this - I like Idol, although this season has been the most boring of all the 6 seasons - but changing the game constantly leads many to question its sincerity - and once that happens its' dominance in the ratings will start to crash!http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#175657Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:02:33 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:175657Paul CherniackI would have watched the show live if I knew Elvis was there!! I found out later and saw it many times since. It was weird only because that technology is new to most viewers. But, it was incredibly amazing to see the King "live" on stage!! I would love to see more of that but only where Elvis is concerned. His place atop all the Idols is a fitting tribute that I love!!! Elvis rules!! http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#175752Mon, 30 Apr 2007 23:23:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:175752Mary Jayne Wade, Troy, NYI was going to skip AI because I thought the results would be at the end of a 2 hour show, but am I glad that I watched. Reading about those children and actually seeing them made it so real. That 12 year old boy raising his brother in that little hut. Well, the whole thing was heartbreaking. I may have been naive, but I didn't think the contestants knew in advance that no one was leaving. If Jordan knew, then she deserves a best actress award for those tears. I would love to know how they accomplished that duet with Celine (ugh) and Elvis. It was wonderful. I wish they would put those 2 hours on dvd. Great show, AI!! Mary Jayne Wadehttp://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#176393Tue, 01 May 2007 13:43:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:176393susanI really enjoyed the show. I do believe that the contestants knew that no one was going home. I was very moved by all the videos of the children both here and in Africa. It's so sad to think that in this world, there are people living like that. Personally I thought the Celine & "Elvis" duet was terrific. But Josh Groban was the one that brought tears to my eyes and promted me to make my own donation. I just hope that all (or most) of the money actually makes it to the foundations named and that there is no skimming off the top. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#176529Tue, 01 May 2007 14:45:25 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:176529Mimi C, New York, N.Y. The show was wonderful, and so sad. I had a box of kleenex next to me. I felt so good after I made my donation. I commend american idol, and everyone who part in making this "an affair to remember". Good Job. I don't think they wanted to hurt Jordin,they just wanted to add a little suspense to the show,( like a cliff hanger) you know, just like for those of us who watch the tv show "24", who ca'nt wait for the next episode. Now we are waiting anxiously to see who is going to be voted off...The suspense is killing me... I think i'ts fun. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#176656Tue, 01 May 2007 15:46:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:176656cynthia Anaheim, CaliforniaI think you are all missing the point. The voting was put to a good cause to help out the ubfortunate. If you truely believe that you only watch the show to vote rather than the comedy of Simon and the new up coming talent,than I think you need to re-evaluate yourself. You should know by the way ole Sanjaya was kept around that the winner has allready been picked and that is that.http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#178756Wed, 02 May 2007 15:31:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:178756d&s gibson; montg.al.i saw elvis here in the 50's with kitty wells, et al; he sang 16 tons his way & he was good. we got chills watching him on ai. ellen sure turned the screws in the rich. good for the needy!! whether it was planned or not, such tie votes do happen & for this event, it seemed soothing. elvis was still the best part. doris day could have done just as good as cd. need more of the special effects; see hank sr/jrhttp://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#183544Sun, 06 May 2007 01:27:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:183544Michael W. CardamoneDefinitely a good call to not eliminate anyone on a night that focused on an incredibly important crisis. Enjoyed the Simpson's parody. Show was well done as usual. http://testpattern.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/04/26/170158.aspx#260907Fri, 06 Jul 2007 22:08:56 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:260907AnonymousRusland halveert olie en gas produktie