It’s not often that I’m truly shocked by the results of American Idol. Yes, of course, I was surprised a few weeks ago when Casey Abrams had the lowest votes and the judges saved him. But at least I had an explanation for it – as I figured his fans thought he was certainly safe and didn’t feel as much incentive to vote for him that early in the show.

But this week – Pia Toscano in the bottom three? Really? I mean, she has not been my favorite – as I’ve felt she’s too refined and not really connecting with the audience. But this week watching her struggle a bit on the performance aspect made me see her in a new light – a little less “perfect”. But I really was shocked with Ryan announced her in the bottom three.

Rounding out the rest of the bottom three was Jacob Lusk, and Stefano Langore. Neither of whom have been my favorites either – but I was surprised Stefano was in the bottom as I thought some of the others were a bit weaker than he was last night. With the bottom three announced – I figured Jacob would be the one going home.

Just to interject here about Iggy Pop – what… I mean what??? Ick and can I say Ick again? Oh please. I know they were trying to get a superstar rocker on stage .. but Iggy Pop with no shirt, out of breath, and just plain icky… come on American Idol … I think you can do better than that.

Back to the results…

Ryan told Jacob he was leaving … to go back to safety at the couches. And then Pia Toscano was announced at the one leaving. It was clear that everyone was in shock – Stefano, other contestants, and judges. I’m certain if the judges had another save they would have pulled it out immediately and sent her back to safety.

Jennifer said she had no idea what just happened. Randy was in shock. But I can tell you that even though Pia is an amazing singer – there HAS to be a connection between the contestant and the audience. We have to see the contestants as someone we like, we see as an underdog or similar to ourselves (imperfect but wanting to live the dream) and we have to want them to succeed. I think Pia’s challenge was she came onto American Idol when she could have already been putting out albums. She seemed overly confident (even though at times she said she was scared – it didn’t come across that she was scared). She was a bit reserved and classy – which is GREAT for a performer but for an American Idol contestant we need to see more personality and anything to help us connect.

My prediction is that Pia Toscano will be a recording contract very quickly and be the first of the contestants from the season to have her album out there. I also think she could easily get a guest spot on Glee, or other TV/movies. Good luck Pia!

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