American Idol season 9 explained
The ninth season of American Idol premiered on Fox on Tuesday, January 12, 2010, and concluded on Wednesday, May 26, 2010.[1] Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi, and Randy Jackson returned as judges and were joined by Ellen DeGeneres, who was brought on as a replacement for Paula Abdul after a series of guest judges filled in during the auditions. Idol Gives Back also returned on April 21, 2010.[2] The top 24 semifinal format used in the fourth through seventh seasons also returned this season.[3] Cowell, DioGuardi, and DeGeneres all left the show after this season, although only Cowell's departure was announced in advance.[4] [5] [6]
Lee DeWyze, a folk rocker from Mount Prospect, Illinois, won the competition, beating out fellow folk rocker Crystal Bowersox, who was the runner-up. Multiple contestants from this season were signed to record deals, including DeWyze, Bowersox, Casey James, Michael Lynche, and Siobhan Magnus.
Changes from previous seasons
Paula Abdul did not return to the judges panel, having announced in the beginning of August 2009 that she was leaving the show due to unresolved contract negotiations.[7] Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Shania Twain, Katy Perry, Avril Lavigne, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris, and Kristin Chenoweth were brought on as guest judges during the auditions.[8] [9] [10] [11]
After making the decision to utilize guest judges in Abdul's absence, Fox chairman Peter Rice stated that they would find a permanent fourth judge before the season premiere in January 2010.[12] Ellen DeGeneres confirmed on September 9, 2009, that she would be joining the show as the new permanent fourth judge for the rounds held at CBS Television City for Hollywood Week and thereafter.[13]
Additionally, Simon Cowell announced shortly before the ninth season began that it would be his last season on American Idol. Cowell left the show to begin preparations for an American version of his singing competition The X Factor.[14] Ellen DeGeneres also announced on July 29, 2010, that she would not return to the judges panel because it was not the "right fit" for her.[15] Kara DioGuardi also announced on September 3, 2010, that she would not return as a judge for the tenth season.[16]
Regional auditions
Auditions began on June 14, 2009, less than a month after the previous season's finale. During this stage, a series of guest judges filled in on the judging panel.[17] Auditions were held in the following cities.[18]
City! scope="col" | Preliminary date | Preliminary venue | Filming date(s) | Filming venue | Guest judge | Golden tickets |
|---|
| Boston, Massachusetts | June 14, 2009 | Gillette Stadium | August 13–14, 2009 | 60 State Street[19] | Victoria Beckham | 32 |
|---|
| Atlanta, Georgia | June 18, 2009 | Georgia Dome | August 16–17, 2009 | W Hotel Atlanta Midtown[20] | Mary J. Blige | 25 |
|---|
| Chicago, Illinois | June 22, 2009 | United Center | August 31 – September 1, 2009 | Hyatt Regency Chicago[21] | Shania Twain | 13 |
|---|
| Dallas, Texas | June 26, 2009 | Cowboys Stadium | August 24, 2009[22] | W Hotel Dallas Victory | Joe Jonas | 31 |
|---|
| August 25, 2009[23] | Neil Patrick Harris |
| Los Angeles, California | June 30, 2009 | Rose Bowl Stadium | September 3, 2009 | Marina del Rey Marriott[24] | Katy Perry | 23 |
|---|
| September 4, 2009 | Avril Lavigne |
| Orlando, Florida | July 9, 2009 | Amway Arena | August 28–29, 2009 | Rosen Shingle Creek Resort[25] | Kristin Chenoweth | 31 |
|---|
| Denver, Colorado | July 14, 2009 | Invesco Field | August 7–8, 2009 | Grand Hyatt[26] | Victoria Beckham | 26 |
|---|
| Total number of tickets to Hollywood | 181 | |
|---|
Hollywood week
Held at the Kodak Theatre for the second straight year, the first day of Hollywood Week featured the 181 contestants from the auditions round[27] singing solo with the option of playing an instrument.[28] Ellen DeGeneres made her first appearance as a judge at this time. 96 contestants advanced. The next round required the contestants to split into groups and perform. 71 advanced to the final round of Hollywood requiring a solo performance. 46 made it to the final round, where the judges spoke to the contestants one-by-one to tell them whether they had made the final 24.[29]
Semifinals
The semifinal format used during the fourth through seventh seasons was revived for this season. Starting with twelve women and twelve men, the women and men performed weekly on separate shows, each performing a Billboard Hot 100 song, and on the results show, the bottom two contestants from each group were eliminated from the competition. The semifinals took place over three weeks, meaning that six men and six women were eliminated, leaving the other six men and six women to form the top 12. The women performed on the first night, and the males the next night. However, the men and women switched on March 2 and March 3, because Crystal Bowersox had been hospitalized due to complications from diabetes.[30] [31]
Color key:
Top 24
Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 20
Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 16
Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 12 finalists
- Lee DeWyze (born April 2, 1986, in Mount Prospect, Illinois; 23 years old at the start of the show) was from Mount Prospect, and auditioned in Chicago with Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine." He performed The Fray's "You Found Me" in Hollywood.
- Crystal Bowersox (born August 4, 1985, in Elliston, Ohio; 24 years old at the start of the show) was from Elliston, and auditioned in Chicago with Erma Franklin's "Piece of My Heart." Her Hollywood performance of Aretha Franklin's "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" impressed the judges and fellow contestants alike. She was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was six, and while on the show, she suffered diabetic complications and was hospitalized, which resulted in the top 20 performance nights for the male and female contestants to switched.
- Casey James (born May 31, 1982, in Princeton, Texas; 27 years old at the start of the show) was from Fort Worth, Texas, and auditioned in Denver with John Mayer's "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room."
- Michael Lynche (born May 31, 1983; 26 years old at the start of the show) was from St. Petersburg, Florida, and auditioned in Orlando with Todd Duncan's "Unchained Melody." His daughter was born during the Hollywood round, and the unfolding drama of his wife's labor was heavily featured while he performed John Mayer's "Waiting on the World to Change."
- Aaron Kelly (born April 2, 1993, in Davenport, Florida; 16 years old at the start of the show) was from Sonestown, Pennsylvania, and auditioned in Orlando with Miley Cyrus's "The Climb." He performed Sarah McLachlan's "Angel" in Hollywood, where he forgot his words.
- Siobhan Magnus (born March 15, 1990, in Barnstable, Massachusetts; 19 years old at the start of the show) was from Cape Cod, Massachusetts,[32] and auditioned in Boston with Queen's "Love of My Life." She performed Stevie Wonder's "Living for the City" in Hollywood.
- Tim Urban (born May 1, 1989, in Tacoma, Washington; 20 years old at the start of the show) was from Duncanville, Texas, and auditioned in Dallas with Matt Nathanson's "Bulletproof Week." He performed David Cook's "Come Back To Me" in Hollywood. He did not initially qualify for the semifinals, but was chosen as a replacement when Chris Golightly was disqualified from the competition.
- Katie Stevens (born December 8, 1992, in Southbury, Connecticut; 17 years old at the start of the show) was from Middlebury, Connecticut, and auditioned in Boston with Glenn Miller's "At Last." She performed Jean DuShon's "For Once in My Life" in Hollywood, where Kara DioGuardi considered her a potential winner.
- Andrew Garcia (born October 8, 1985, in Moreno Valley, California; 24 years old at the start of the show) auditioned in Los Angeles with Maroon 5's "Sunday Morning." He impressed the judges with his performance of Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" in Hollywood.
- Didi Benami (born October 25, 1986, in New York City, New York; 23 years old at the start of the show) was from Knoxville, Tennessee, and auditioned in Los Angeles with The Beatles' "Hey Jude." She performed Katharine McPhee's "Terrified" – penned by Kara DioGuardi – in Hollywood.
- Paige Miles (born September 26, 1985; 24 years old at the start of the show) was from Naples, Florida, and auditioned in Dallas. She performed Stevie Wonder's "Living for the City" in Hollywood.
- Lacey Brown (born August 13, 1985; 24 years old at the start of the show) was from Amarillo, Texas, and auditioned in Orlando with Judy Garland's "Over the Rainbow." She had previously made it to the Hollywood round in the eighth season of American Idol. Ryan Seacrest noted that her performance of "What a Wonderful World" by Louie Armstrong had a major part in her advancing into the top 24.
Finals
There were eleven weeks of finals with twelve contestants competing. At least one contestant was eliminated every week based on the public's votes, although the judges could veto one elimination through the use of the "judges' save."
Color key:
Top 12 – The Rolling Stones
Contestants performed one song each from the Rolling Stones discography, and are listed in the order they performed.
Top 11 – Billboard number ones
Miley Cyrus served as a guest mentor this week. Contestants performed one song each from the list of Billboard number one hits, and are listed in the order they performed.
Top 10 – R&B/Soul
Usher served as a guest mentor this week. Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 9 (April 6th) – Lennon–McCartney
Contestants chose songs from the Lennon–McCartney discography, and are listed in the order they performed. The judges chose to use their "judges' save" when Michael Lynche was announced as the performer to be eliminated. As a result, no one was eliminated this week.
Top 9 (April 13th) – Elvis Presley
Adam Lambert served as a guest mentor this week. Contestants performed one song each from the Elvis Presley discography, and are listed in the order they performed. Two contestants were eliminated.
Top 7 – Inspirational music
Alicia Keys served as a guest mentor this week. Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 6 – Shania Twain
Shania Twain served as a guest mentor this week. Contestants performed one song each from her discography, and are listed in the order they performed.
Top 5 – Frank Sinatra
Harry Connick, Jr. served as a guest mentor this week. Contestants performed one song each from the Frank Sinatra discography, and are listed in the order they performed.
Top 4 – Movie soundtracks
Jamie Foxx served as a guest mentor this week. Each contestant performed two songs: one solo and one duet with a fellow contestant. Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 3 — Contestant's Choice/Judges' Choice
Each contestant performed two songs: one chosen by the judges and one chosen by the contestant. Contestants are listed in the order they performed.
Top 2 – Finale
Each contestant performed three songs, one of which was chosen by producer Simon Fuller, and are listed in the order they performed.
Performers! scope="col" | Song |
| "Leave Right Now" |
|---|
Siobhan Magnus & Aaron Kelly
with Barry Gibb & Robin Gibb | "How Deep Is Your Love" |
|---|
Michael Lynche
with Michael McDonald | "Takin' It to the Streets" |
|---|
Crystal Bowersox, Siobhan Magnus, Katie Stevens
Didi Benami, Paige Miles & Lacey Brown
with Christina Aguilera | "Beautiful"
"Fighter" |
|---|
Lee DeWyze, Casey James, Michael Lynche
Aaron Kelly, Tim Urban & Andrew Garcia
with Daryl Hall & John Oates | "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)"
"Maneater"
"You Make My Dreams" |
|---|
Crystal Bowersox
with Alanis Morissette | "Ironic"
"You Oughta Know" |
|---|
Casey James
with Bret Michaels | "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" |
|---|
Lee DeWyze
with Chicago | "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?"
"If You Leave Me Now"
"25 or 6 to 4" |
|---|
Lee DeWyze & Crystal Bowersox
with Joe Cocker | "With a Little Help from My Friends" |
|---|
| "School's Out" |
|---|
| "The Truth" |
|---|
| "Simon Said" |
|---|
| "You Lost Me" |
|---|
| "Undo It" |
|---|
| Larry Platt & William Hung | "Pants on the Ground" |
|---|
Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard,
Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood,
Taylor Hicks, Jordin Sparks & Kris Allen | "Together We Are One" |
|---|
Top 12
with Janet Jackson | "Again"
"Nothing"
"Nasty" | |
|---|
Elimination chart
Color key:
Contestant! scope="col" rowspan="2" | Semifinals | Top 12 | Top 11 | Top 10 | Top 9 | Top 7 | Top 6 | Top 5 | Top 4 | Top 3 | Finale |
|---|
| 2/25 | 3/4 | 3/11 | 3/18 | 3/25 | 4/1 | 4/8 | 4/15 | 4/22 | 4/29 | 5/5 | 5/12 | 5/19 | 5/26 |
|---|
| Lee DeWyze | 1 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Winner |
|---|
| Crystal Bowersox | 2 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Runner-up |
|---|
| Casey James | 3 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Bottom three | Safe | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Michael Lynche | 4 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Saved | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Bottom two | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Aaron Kelly | 5 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Safe | Bottom three | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Siobhan Magnus | 6 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Tim Urban | 7 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Bottom three | Bottom three | Safe | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Andrew Garcia | 8 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Katie Stevens | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Bottom three | Safe |
|---|
| Didi Benami | 10 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Paige Miles | 11 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Bottom three | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Lacey Brown | 12 | Safe | Safe | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Katelyn Epperly | | Safe | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Todrick Hall | Safe | Safe |
|---|
| Alex Lambert | Safe | Safe |
|---|
| Lilly Scott | Safe | Safe |
|---|
| Michelle Delamor | Safe | Eliminated | |
|---|
| John Park | Safe |
|---|
| Jermaine Sellers | Safe |
|---|
| Haeley Vaughn | Safe |
|---|
| Tyler Grady | Eliminated | |
|---|
| Ashley Rodriguez |
|---|
| Joe Muñoz |
|---|
| Janell Wheeler | |
|---|
Controversies
Chris Golightly was originally selected as semi-finalist. According to reports, Golightly was disqualified on February 17, 2010, after already being told he was in the top 24, over an old contract. The contract had expired by the time the top 24 began to tape, but they disqualified him because he was under contract at the time of the tryouts, in violation of Idol rules. He was later replaced by Tim Urban at the last minute of the last part of Hollywood Week.[33]
Ryan Seacrest was criticized by TheWrap and MSNBC Entertainment for "critiquing the judges’ comments" and becoming more aggressive.[34] [35] Ratings for this season dropped significantly compared to the previous two seasons,[36] leading to speculation that it might be coming to a close.[37] It was speculated that reasons for the decline might have included the pending departure of Simon Cowell and the more unpredictable behavior of Ryan Seacrest.[38]
U.S. Nielsen ratings
This season of American Idol was the top show for the 2009–10 season of broadcast primetime shows. Its Tuesday and Wednesday episodes occupied the top two spots of the season. Viewership for the Tuesday episodes averaged 22.974 million, while the Wednesday episodes averaged 21.951 million.[39]
See also
Notes and References
- News: Kate Stanhope. Fox Lines Up Midseason Premieres. TVGuide.com. November 30, 2009. https://web.archive.org/web/20091129044059/http://www.tvguide.com/news/fox-lines-midseason-1012574.aspx. November 29, 2009. live.
- Web site: Mitchell . Wendy . 'Idol Gives Back' will return to 'American Idol' on April 21 . Entertainment Weekly. October 6, 2009. February 29, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20100105163145/http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/10/06/idol-gives-back-will-return-to-american-idol-on-april-21/. January 5, 2010 . live.
- News: 'American Idol' season 9: 24 semifinalists, no 'Wild Card' round, and a February 23 voting kickoff. Michael. Slezak. Entertainment Weekly. December 22, 2009. January 2, 2010. https://web.archive.org/web/20100114050148/http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/12/22/american-idol-season-9-dates-details/. January 14, 2010 . live.
- Web site: Simon Cowell Leaving American Idol . People . January 11, 2010 . February 29, 2020 . https://web.archive.org/web/20110417180550/http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20421555.html . April 17, 2011 . live .
- Barrett . Annie . Kara DioGuardi not returning to 'American Idol': It's (finally) official . Entertainment Weekly . September 3, 2010 . February 29, 2020 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120410124512/http://popwatch.ew.com/2010/09/03/kara-dioguardi-not-returning-to-american-idol-its-finally-official/ . April 10, 2012 . live .
- Web site: Ellen DeGeneres Bows Out of American Idol . People. July 29, 2010 . February 29, 2020 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100811040400/http://tvwatch.people.com/2010/07/29/ellen-degeneres-bows-out-of-american-idol/ . August 11, 2010 . dead .
- News: Abdul Walks Off Television's Biggest Stage . The New York Times . August 5, 2009 . Wyatt . Edward . February 24, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20180414012431/https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/06/arts/television/06abdul.html?_r=1&src=twt&twt=nytimes . April 14, 2018 . live .
- "American Idol": Shania Twain will be the next guest judge.. Entertainment Weekly. February 29, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20090821180231/http://news-briefs.ew.com/2009/08/17/american-idol-shania-twain-rumored-next-guest-judge/. August 21, 2009. live.
- Web site: Mary J. Blige to Be a Guest Judge on American Idol . People . August 14, 2009 . February 29, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20091215094156/http://tvwatch.people.com/2009/08/14/mary-j-blige-to-be-a-guest-judge-on-american-idol/ . December 15, 2009 . dead .
- News: Neil Patrick Harris signs on to guest judge 'American Idol' . Los Angeles Times . August 25, 2009 . January 21, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20090828062506/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/showtracker/2009/08/neil-patrick-harris-signs-on-to-judge-american-idol.html . August 28, 2009 . live .
- Web site: American Idol's Next Guest Judge Revealed . People . August 27, 2009 . January 21, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20091031202357/http://tvwatch.people.com/2009/08/27/american-idols-next-guest-judge-revealed/ . October 31, 2009.
- Web site: Ausiello . Michael . Press Tour Diary: Katy Perry, Posh Spice to (temporarily) replace Abdul on 'Idol' . https://web.archive.org/web/20090808205219/http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/08/06/press-tour-diary-executive-session/ . dead . August 8, 2009 . Entertainment Weekly. August 6, 2009 . January 21, 2010 .
- Web site: Ellen DeGeneres Joins American Idol as Fourth Judge . Americanidol.com . September 9, 2009 . January 21, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100309084752/http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1841/ . March 9, 2010 . live .
- Daniel Kreps . Simon Cowell Near New Deal to Stay On "Idol," Import "X Factor". Rolling Stone . September 24, 2009. February 29, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20100105211209/http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2009/09/24/simon-cowell-near-new-deal-to-stay-on-idol-import-x-factor/. January 5, 2010 . live.
- News: Stelter . Brian . 2010-07-30 . Ellen DeGeneres Leaving 'American Idol' . en-US . The New York Times . 2023-05-15 . 0362-4331.
- Web site: Kara DioGuardi Is Leaving American Idol . 2023-05-15 . Peoplemag . en.
- https://archive.today/20120904022513/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1620572/avril-lavigne-guestjudge-idol-la.jhtml Avril Lavigne To Guest-Judge 'American Idol' In Los Angeles
- Web site: Season 9 Auditions – American Idol News . Americanidol.com . June 3, 2009 . January 21, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100526103407/http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1737/ . May 26, 2010 . live .
- Web site: Baltrusis . Sam . Fox's 'American Idol' returns to Boston this week . Loadedgunboston.com . August 13, 2009 . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120422022717/http://www.loadedgunboston.com/2009/08/foxs-american-idol-returns-to-boston.html . April 22, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: Richard Eldredge . "American Idol" auditions hit Atlanta, Leaving Our Jaws, Pants on Ground . Atlantamagazine.com . January 14, 2010 . April 19, 2012.
- Web site: At Chicago auditions, Shania is an 'American Idol' diva in Twaining . Oocities.org . September 2, 2009 . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20160128040011/http://www.oocities.org/tommy3069/shania_news_suntimes090209.html . January 28, 2016 . live .
- Web site: February 22, 1999 . Joe Jonas meets Brewer High teens before first day of classes . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20120426082233/http://www.disneychannel-tv.com/jonas/joe-jonas-meets-brewer-high-teens-before-first-day-of-classes/ . April 26, 2012 . April 19, 2012 . Disneychannel-tv.com.
- Web site: Neil Patrick Harris is your latest 'American Idol' guest judge . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20121104113138/http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2009/08/neil-patrick-harris-is-your-latest-american-idol-guest-judge.html . November 4, 2012 . April 19, 2012 . Blog.zap2it.com . mdy-all.
- Web site: February 12, 2010 . A Starring Role for the Marina Del Rey Marriott . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20120514170542/http://news.marriott.com/2010/02/a-starring-role-for-the-marina-del-rey-marriott.html . May 14, 2012 . April 19, 2012 . News.marriott.com.
- Web site: "American Idol" Reject Donald Jarrod Norrell Hauled Away In Handcuffs . September 8, 2011 . https://web.archive.org/web/20110908153111/http://www.popcrunch.com/american-idol-reject-donald-jarrod-norrell-hauled-away-in-handcuffs/ . September 8, 2011 . dead .
- http://www.kdvr.com/news/kdvr-idol-audition-line-071409,0,7151416.photogallery American Idol in Denver – Photo Gallery
- http://www.americanidol.com/videos/season_9/golden_ticket_interviews/ Golden Ticket Interviews
- News: "American Idol" hopeful from Seattle did not make it to Hollywood afterall. Payne. Bob. February 8, 2010. The Seattle Times. February 10, 2010. https://web.archive.org/web/20100212103920/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/idolconfessions/2011019702_idolhayes08.html. February 12, 2010 . live.
- Web site: Top 24 Revealed: Feb 17, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20141129105841/http://archive.americanidol.com/recaps/season_9/feb_17 . dead . November 29, 2014 . . November 17, 2014 . mdy-all .
- Web site: Doris Dickson says . Despite American Idol Loss, Bowersox a Boon for Diabetes Awareness . Diabetesnewshound.com . May 28, 2010 . February 24, 2011 . https://web.archive.org/web/20101208133018/http://diabetesnewshound.com/type1/crystal-bowersox/ . December 8, 2010 . dead .
- http://content.usatoday.com/communities/idolchatter/post/2010/03/crystal-bowersox-could-be-a-game-time-decision-tonight/1?csp=34 Crystal Bowersox could be a game-time decision tonight
- Although the American Idol website lists Siobhan Magnus' hometown as Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Siobhan is specifically from Marstons Mills, Massachusetts, a village in the town of Barnstable, Massachusetts within Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Web site: 'American Idol' worship at Barnstable High . CapeCodOnline.com . March 13, 2010 . March 16, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100315012052/http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20100313%2FNEWS%2F3130311 . March 15, 2010 . dead . mdy-all .
- Web site: Chris Golightly Disqualified From 'American Idol' Top 24. MTV. Kaufman. Gil. February 18, 2010. February 8, 2010. https://web.archive.org/web/20100325155629/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1632112/20100218/story.jhtml. March 25, 2010 . dead.
- News: 'Idol's' problem isn't Ellen anymore – it's Ryan. Today.com. June 5, 2010.
- News: Forget Simon — 'Idol's' all about Ryan now. Today.com. June 5, 2010.
- Web site: American Idol" Ratings Down, but Ad Sales Seen Up . ABC . USA . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100707080225/https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory?id=10545374 . July 7, 2010 . live .
- News: 'American Idol' Ratings Hit a Low Mark . The New York Times . April 7, 2010 . February 24, 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170111152259/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/08/arts/television/08arts-AMERICANIDOL_BRF.html . January 11, 2017 . live . Carter . Bill .
- Web site: Bianco . Robert . It's time for producers to fix 'American Idol,' and here's how . USA Today . May 5, 2010 . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100507080047/http://www.usatoday.com/life/television/reviews/2010-05-04-idolfix04_ST_N.htm . May 7, 2010 . live .
- Web site: Final 2009–10 Broadcast Primetime Show Average Viewership . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . June 16, 2010 . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20130517091357/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/06/16/final-2009-10-broadcast-primetime-show-average-viewership/54336/ . May 17, 2013 . dead .
- Web site: tvbythenumbers Jan 20, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121018231755/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/01/20/tv-ratings-american-idol-ny-jets-ncis-and-the-big-bang-theory-top-weekly-viewing/39495/ . October 18, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: tvbythenumbers Jan 26, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121104190901/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/01/26/tv-ratings-nfc-championship-american-idol-dominate-weekly-viewing/40204/ . November 4, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: tvbythenumbers Feb 2, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121023164213/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/02/02/tv-ratings-grammy-awards-american-idol-house-and-ncis-top-weekly-viewing/40816/ . October 23, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: tvbythenumbers Feb 9, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120415205332/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/02/09/tv-ratings-super-bowl-xliv-post-game-and-undercover-boss-dominate-weekly-viewing/41481/ . April 15, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: Listings – AMERICAN IDOL on FOX . The Futon Critic . January 21, 2010.
- Web site: tvbythenumbers Feb 17, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121018212119/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/02/17/tv-ratings-top-25-olympics-and-american-idol-battle-for-weekly-supremacy/42196/ . October 18, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: tvbythenumbers Feb 23, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20110407074211/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/02/23/tv-ratings-top-25-american-idol-still-top-show-of-week-with-adults-18-49/42827 . April 7, 2011 . dead .
- Web site: tvbythenumbers March 2, 2010 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120422025706/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/03/02/tv-ratings-top-25-american-idol-olympics-top-weekly-broadcast-network-viewing/43704/ . April 22, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: TV Ratings Top 25: Oscars, American Idol & The Big Bang Theory Top Weekly Broadcast Charts . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121009124424/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/03/09/tv-ratings-top-25-oscars-american-idol-the-big-bang-theory-top-weekly-broadcast-charts/44441/ . October 9, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: TV Ratings Top 25: American Idol, Big Bang Theory, NCIS Top Weekly Broadcast Charts . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120530014508/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/03/16/tv-ratings-top-25-american-idol-big-bang-theory-ncis-top-weekly-broadcast-charts/45185/ . May 30, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: TV Ratings Top 25: American Idol, NCIS, Undercover Boss, House Top Weekly Broadcast Charts . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121018212429/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/03/23/tv-ratings-top-25-american-idol-ncis-undercover-boss-house-top-weekly-broadcast-charts/45840/ . October 18, 2012 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Broadcast Finals: "Ugly Betty, Gary Unmarried" Inch Up . Robert . Seidman . TV by the Numbers . March 18, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20100322191459/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/18/tv-ratings-idol-paces-fox-human-target-on-the-bubble-ugly-betty-sinks-to-lows/45371 . March 22, 2010 .
- Web site: Tuesday Finals: Lost, American Idol Up; V Clip Show Falls . TV by the Numbers . Bill . Gorman . March 24, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20100328123846/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/24/tuesday-finals-lost-up-v-clip-show-falls/46017 . March 28, 2010 .
- Web site: Broadcast Finals: The Middle, Modern Family, Idol, Survivor, ANTM Rise . Robert . Seidman . TV by the Numbers . March 25, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20100401043305/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/03/25/broadcast-finals-the-middle-modern-family-idol-survivor-antm-rise/46117 . April 1, 2010 .
- Web site: TV Ratings Top 25: Dancing; "Idol" & "Lost" Top Weekly Broadcast Charts. April 6, 2010. April 1, 2010. TV by the Numbers. Robert. Seidman. https://web.archive.org/web/20131105001747/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/04/06/tv-ratings-top-25-dancing-idol-lost-top-weekly-broadcast-charts/47530/. November 5, 2013. dead.
- Web site: "The Middle," "Modern Family," and "American Idol" Rise In Wednesday Broadcast Finals. March 31, 2010. April 1, 2010. TV by the Numbers. Robert. Seidman. https://web.archive.org/web/20100403233829/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/01/the-middle-modern-family-and-american-idol-rise-in-wednesday-broadcast-finals/47069. April 3, 2010. dead.
- Web site: Broadcast Finals: "Lost," "NCIS," "NCIS: LA" Tick Up; "V," "The Good Wife" Tick Down . Robert . Seidman . April 7, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100412182343/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/07/broadcast-finals-lost-ncis-ncis-la-tick-up-v-the-good-wife-tick-down/47689 . April 12, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Finals: "CSI: NY" Dips Further + "South Park," "In Plain Sight" and More . April 8, 2010 . Robert . Seidman . TV by the Numbers . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100414163049/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/08/wednesday-finals-csi-ny-dips-further-south-park-in-plain-sight-and-more/47783 . April 14, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Broadcast Finals Tuesday: Dancing, Lost Adjusted Up; V Adjusted Down . Bill . Gorman . April 14, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100420181136/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/14/broadcast-finals-tuesday-dancing-lost-adjusted-up-v-adjusted-down/48563 . April 20, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Broadcast Finals: The Middle, Modern Family, Cougar Town Adjusted Up; Ugly Betty Down . Bill . Gorman . April 15, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100421065655/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/15/wednesday-broadcast-finals-the-middle-modern-family-cougar-town-adjusted-up-ugly-betty-down/48734 . April 21, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Broadcast Finals Tuesday: Lost, Idol Adjusted Up; Glee, V Adjusted Down . Bill . Gorman . April 21, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100427043915/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/21/broadcast-finals-tuesday-lost-idol-adjusted-up-glee-v-adjusted-down/49348 . April 27, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Broadcast Finals: Idol, L&O: SVU Adjusted Up; Accidentally On Purpose Down . Bill . Gorman . April 22, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . https://web.archive.org/web/20100428012306/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/22/wednesday-broadcast-finals-idol-l-accidentally-on-purpose-down/49489 . April 28, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Broadcast Finals Tuesday: Idol, Dancing, NCIS Adjusted Up; Glee Adjusted Down . Bill . Gorman . TV by the Numbers . April 28, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100504100625/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/28/broadcast-finals-tuesday-idol-dancing-ncis-adjusted-up-glee-adjusted-down/50003 . May 4, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Broadcast Finals: Modern Family, American Idol, Top Model Adjusted Up; High Society Down . Bill . Gorman . April 29, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100506015650/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/04/29/wednesday-broadcast-finals-modern-family-american-idol-top-model-adjusted-up-high-society-down/50112 . May 6, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Broadcast Finals Tuesday: Idol, Lost, 90210 Adjusted Up; Good Wife, V, Parenthood Adjusted Down . Bill . Gorman . TV by the Numbers . May 5, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100511050345/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/05/05/broadcast-finals-tuesday-idol-lost-90210-adjusted-up-good-wife-v-parenthood-adjusted-down/50683 . May 11, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Finals: "American Idol," "The Middle," "Modern Family," "Cougar Town" and "CSI: NY" Adjusted Up . Robert . Seidman . TV by the Numbers . May 6, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100510005113/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/05/06/wednesday-finals-american-idol-the-middle-modern-family-cougar-town-and-csi-ny-adjusted-up/50751 . May 10, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Tuesday Finals: Lost, NCIS Adjusted Up; Good Wife, V, Glee Adjusted Down . TV by the Numbers . Seidman . Robert . May 12, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . https://web.archive.org/web/20100516021229/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/05/12/lost-ncis-adjusted-up-good-wife-v-glee-adjusted-down/51230 . May 16, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: Wednesday Finals: American Idol, Modern Family, Cougar Town Adjusted Up; Old Christine, Happy Town Adjusted Down . Bill . Gorman . May 13, 2010 . May 25, 2010 . TV by the Numbers . https://web.archive.org/web/20100516015142/http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/05/13/wednesday-finals-american-idol-modern-family-cougar-town-adjusted-up-old-christine-happy-town-adjusted-down/51324 . May 16, 2010 . dead .
- Web site: TV Ratings Top 25: Dancing Tops Idol With Viewers Again, Lost Finale Wins With Adults 18–49 . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20121017171036/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/05/25/tv-ratings-top-25-dancing-tops-idol-with-viewers-again-lost-finale-wins-with-adults-18-49/52328/ . October 17, 2012 .
- Web site: TV Ratings Top 25: American Idol, Big Bang Theory, Two And A Half Men Top 18–49 Ratings . Tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com . April 19, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20120417090512/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2010/06/02/tv-ratings-top-25-american-idol-big-bang-theory-two-and-a-half-men-top-18-49-ratings/52800/ . April 17, 2012 . dead .
