more ›

We know even Kristy Lee Cook was kind of a stretch each week when it came to locals on American Idol. But, we figured since we've fallen in such deep love with every single note that's escaped Carly Smithson's lips this year—and she's from San Diego, which makes her the second most local contestant on the show—it sort of bears mention. Anyway, we won't bore you with a recap. We'll just say we no longer have a reason to watch this season of Idol, and we may not even bother with tickets to Idols Live when it comes through Tacoma on July 12. All because, before the Top 5, they had to eliminate the most gifted artist the show has ever seen...well, the third most gifted. There's still a Carrie and a Kelly in the world. more ›