by Gina Scarpa

 

Tonight, on American Idol, the finalists are brought on stage, and it's obvious that Casey is missing. Seacrest lets everyone know that he's very sick and in the hospital. Hopefully, he gets better soon so he can get back and get ready for next week. He's definitely safe!

 

A video is shown of the Top 13 arriving at their Beverly Hills mansion. Excuse me while I wipe the drool off my face.

 

This just in: Idol has brought back cheeseball group numbers yet again. This week, it's a Michael Jackson medley. These songs don't do anything for most of them. When will Idol understand that? Standout vocals go to Pia and James.

 

After another Idol staple, the Ford commercial, a video is shown of the Idols at the premiere for Red Riding Hood. They're really getting the royal treatment!

 

The first three contestants to be brought down to the center of the stage are Jacob, Stefano, and Karen. Ryan's cruel side comes out when he tells them that they're all safe... well, except Karen. She's the first in the bottom three.

 

Adam Lambert returned to Idol to perform an unplugged version of his song, "Aftermath", which he wrote. That version is available for download and benefits The Trevor Project.

 

Lauren, Ashton, and Haley are the next to find out their fate. Lauren is so emotional that Ryan doesn't drag it out and sends her back to safety. Much as I love her, overemotional teenagers are why the age limit should be higher than 15 or 16. Katie Stevens, anyone?

Ryan only has empathy for one contestant. Seconds later, he tells Ashton that she's in the bottom three... oh, and Haley is too. Everyone on the couch? You're safe. Diddy Dirty Money performs "Coming Home" with Skyler Grey while the contestants wrap their brains around what just happened.

 

It's the end of the hour, 30 million votes have been cast, and it's time for some results. Karen will be singing again next week, as will Haley. America didn't vote Ashton in to the Top 13 and it's clear they had no intention of keeping her.

 

Earlier in the evening, Ashton said that she should've sang a different song on last night's performance episode - then chooses to do it again for her plea to the judges to keep her.  It's going to be a no.

 

American Idol airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8/7c on FOX.

 

(Image courtesy of FOX)

 

Follow Gina @ginascarpa