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??)

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