This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Networks Throw in the Towel Against Idol
Are Ben Stiller, Christina Applegate and Taye Diggs American Idol groupies? While they weren’t the only celebs that Fox tcaught on camera at the Kodak, the sightings show how much this pop competition has become a red-hot ticket in Hollywood.
Even the networks pulled their regular programming, and those not watching AI were given the choices of Stephen King’s “Desperation” on ABC or the Academy of Country Music Awards on CBS. NBC really threw in the towel by airing “Most Outrageous Moments” (twice) against the singing contest.
Yes, the four-month show has become that big. Tonight it featured the Sherman Oaks homegirl vs. the Silver Fox singing three songs each. Here's how we graded their performances:
Round 1
Katharine McPhee - KT Tunstall's "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree" (which we still don't get) - B+
Taylor Hicks - Stevie Wonder's "Living for the City" - A+
Round 2
Kat - "Over the Rainbow" - A
Taylor - Elton John's "Levon" - B
Round 3 (new singles)
Kat - "My Destiny" - D-
Taylor - "Do I Make You Proud" - C
(By the way, why do these American Idol final songs always always suck??)
Sponsored message
So this contest is pretty much a toss-up, but we don't care for either very much to vote. Results will be revealed tomorrow, but unfortunately, we won't be watching...it's the 2-hour Lost season finale.
Photo by Ray Mickshaw/Fox/Handout/Reuters
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
