Thousands of hopefuls will be finally be narrowed down to 12 men and 12 women this week on "American Idol."
Todrick Hall of Plainview is among the final 71 you'll see singing for their lives this week as the judges make the final decisions.
Todrick Hall on "American Idol"
Photo: FOXIn reality, we know the top 24 were already decided months ago. The lucky few signed confidentiality agreements to keep quiet in order not to ruin it for the viewers.
There are strict consequences for breaking that agreement.
One contestant was reportedly disqualified a few weeks ago because his father spilled the beans to a local newspaper. According to reports, Michael Lynche, or "Big Mike" as he's called on the show, did indeed make the top 24. Over the past couple episodes, we've watched Big Mike as he had to agonize through the birth of his baby girl over the phone. His wife insisted he stay and compete. It's a singularly remarkable story.
Michael Lynche on "American Idol"
Photo: FOXSpoilers about the top 24 did make it online, though. It's reported Lynche's father, who the contestant hasn't spoken to in five years, learned his son made the cut through these internet rumors. He told a Florida newspaper, "Idol" producers found out, and sent Big Mike packing.
But reps for FOX and "American Idol" have yet to comment on rumors of Big Mike being sent home. After all the emotional baggage they've loaded onto viewers since that story broke about the singer, it will be tough to avoid viewer backlash.
It will be interesting to see how "Idol" handles the Big Mike situation on the broadcast, but it could be good news for one of the guys who originally didn't make the cut, and will need to fill the vacancy.
The top 24 will be revealed over two nights, beginning with tonight's two-hour broadcast.
What are your predictions? Does Hall have the stuff to make it to the finals? Should Big Mike be disqualified for his father's transgressions?
