Panache Blog

Friday, March 06, 2009

Good TV or An Amazing Reminder to Remain Open to all Possibilities?

In a reality where all things are possible one needs never be limited by pre-determined obstacles. 

Seven prior seasons showcased twelve talented young hopefuls for the number one position of American Idol.  Good TV according to the 36 million who typically call in each week casting votes for their favorite performance. Last night’s show was the last of the elimination rounds whittling down 36 hopefuls to just twelve.  It was the Wild Card round where the final three spots would be filled by judge’s picks. 

The eight contenders were entertaining and Jan and I held our breath with fairly self-assured knowing that our 21-year-old favorite, Chapel Hill, NC student Anoop Desai, had bagged the number twelve spot. His performance was equal to the best of the young men and women who battled it out – but there is a charm and authenticity to his personality ( after singing “My Prerogative,” he asked to speak, saying he knew this was a difficult day at UNC because it was one year ago Thursday that UNC student body president Eve Carson was shot to death) that clearly captures those who see him. The overwhelming jubilation at the end of his Bobby Brown number left plenty of time for the cameras to pan to the four judges multiple times – even showing a smile on typically feared Simon Cowell’s face.

However, we still needed the outcome and crazier upsets have a habit of occurring on this wildly popular show. Down to the last two contenders and awaiting the judge’s decision, Anoop stood next to Matt Girard – without a doubt the two best male performers of the night. Host Ryan Seacrest asked Simon to announce the number twelve position and Simon without pre-empt gave it to Matt Girard.

We were stunned. The audience was astounded and poor Annop looked shocked – but gracious in his immediate hug of congratulations to his worthy opponent. And then in the last 60 seconds of the unscripted live show, once the judges could get the audience to calm down, Simon announced that the judges had just decided to make this a top 13 – giving Anoop the lucky number 13 position. 

Good TV or an amazing reminder to remain open to all possibilities?

I would love to hear from you.

Posted at 11:42 am  |  Send to a Friend