AMERICAN IDOL RUNNER-UP ADAM LAMBERT BIGGER THAN THE BEATLES AND MADONNA!

Only hours after Adam Lambert's not-yet-released album became available for pre-order at Amazon.com, fans began scurrying to order and quickly moved the album to No. 2 on the site's bestseller's list.

Adam Lambert had quickly proven to be bigger than The Beatles and Madonna -- with an album that will not even be released for almost two months.

The only obstacle keeping Lambert's album from soaring to top place was Barbra Streisand's new album, her first in four years.

What is especially amazing is that Lambert's record label made no announcement of the pre-ordering at Amazon -- and the news spread strictly by word-of-mouth! Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL -- WILL HE BRING THE X FACTOR TO THE AMERICAN SHORES?

One day after American Idol judge Simon Cowell quashed rumors that he had plans for a dance competition show in the works, a new rumor has surfaced that it isn't a dance show -- it is an American version of The X Factor.

It makes sense. All the pieces are there -- they have already tried it, and it was a mountainous success!

So talk is that Fox and Cowell are working out the final details on a contract to keep Cowell around for two more years of American Idol -- and to bring The X Factor across the Atlantic to the American shores. The numbers circulating are big -- that he may earn about $50 million a season for American Idol, and possibly an equal amount for The X Factor should that be successful in the U.S.

Cowell apparently would be executive producer of The X Factor, but it is unknown whether he plans to sit on the judging panel too. But there is chatter that this might be Cowell's chance to work with his buddy and departed American Idol judge Paula Abdul by bringing her on as a judge for The X Factor. That could be a prudent move -- that would please all of the Abdul fans who have been less than happy that Fox replaced Abdul on American Idol, a show she helped launch from the get-go. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL'S KARA DioGUARDI HOPES SHE'LL SIT NEXT TO ELLEN ON JUDGING PANEL

"I am lobbying for her (Ellen DeGeneres) to sit next to me," American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi revealed to Zap2it. "I like the way it was before with, Randy then me then Paula then Simon, so I'm just assuming she'll sit there."

DioGuardi confessed that she is thrilled that Ellen will be joining American Idol judges.

How did DioGuardi learn that Ellen would be a regular Idol judge? "I found out about Ellen on the plane to New York on Wednesday night, " DioGuardi revealed. "I was taking a nap and my manager woke me and said, 'Ellen’s going to be on Idol!'"

DioGuardi believes that Ellen will be excellent as a judge. "Ellen has an incredible, positive attitude, and she's a lover of music," DioGuardi told Fox. "She's a die hard fan of 'American Idol.' She's an accomplished performer, someone who's won Emmys. She proves on her show that she can bring out the best in her fans and in her guests – even the audience. Ellen knows how to make people have a good time."

Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL SAYS NO -- NO DANCE SHOW ON THE HORIZON FOR HIM

So many rumors flying .... And it turns out that Simon Cowell is not planning on a new dance competition program as was being rumored.

"There's absolutely no truth to this," Cowell's rep said, according to RadarOnline. "Simon hasn't spoken to Ian Burton in 20 years and they aren't in talks to go into business."

Of course, you never know what will happen -- and perhaps this will give him the idea that a dance show might be a welcome addition to his already long list of projects.

Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL -- AMERICAN IDOL SUCCESS, AND NOW PERHAPS A DANCE SHOW?

Rumor has it that American Idol Simon Cowell is busily planning a dance competition show!

Cowell is reportedly chatting with his British friend, Ian Burton, about starting the dance contest show. Burton has record label experience and has also managed dancers.

"It's his own SYTYCD (So You Think You Can Dance) show," a source told The Insider. "He is always trying to do his own thing to compete with the Idol team. Now he is trying to steal the SYTYCD thunder.”

Of course, American Idol is not the only thing currently on Cowell's plate. He produces America's Got Talent, and judges both The X Factor and Britain's Got Talent.

Doesn't Simon ever run out of time? Sphere: Related Content

KARA DioGUARDI WILL SERVE AS GUEST CO-HOST ON THE VIEW

First newly signed American Idol judge Ellen DeGeneres crosses over from talk show host to judge -- and now Idol judge Kara DioGuardi is going to take a stab at hosting a talk show.

DioGuardi, according to ABC, will sit in as guest co-host on the Oct. 15 segment of The View, replacing Elisabeth Hasselbeck who is on maternity leave after giving birth to her third child last month.

DioGuardi was first on The View appearance in May when she spoke of the sexuality of eighth-season runner-up Adam Lambert prior to his officially coming out of the closet about a month later.

"I don't think that Adam was ever 'in' so I'm not... you know, I think he was always openly out," DioGardi told The View host Barbara Walters during the May appearance, according to RealityWorld. "I think he was, from what I've seen in various forms of things. I do. I never thought he looked like he wasn't [out]." Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL KRIS ALLEN'S NEW SINGLE HAS BEEN REVEALED

American Idol Kris Allen's highly anticipated new single, "Live Like We're Dying" -- will be officially debuted on Monday, Sept. 21 on New York City radio station Z100. The song is a cover, originally recorded by the Irish band The Script.



As for Allen's album, he wrote on Twitter: "Hey guys! The album is set to release Nov 17th" -- so Allen fans will undoubtedly have that date marked on their calendars. Sphere: Related Content

MAN SENTENCED -- HAD TRIED TO GET INTO RYAN SEACREST'S CAR

A man who assaulted a security guard who was trying to prevent him from entering a car occupied by "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest has been sentenced to 15 days in jail and three years probation, according to news reports.

On Friday Chidi Benjamin Uzomah Jr., 25, of Lakewood was sentenced after pleading guilty to three misdemeanors: assault, battery and possession of a switchblade knife.

Uzomah was also ordered to stay away from both Children's Hospital and Seacrest.

Seacrest had been at the hospital for a charity appearance. Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL'S 50TH BIRTHDAY BASH!

Article by Katie Nicholl, Dailymail.co.uk)

When a billionaire throws a party for a millionaire, the lucky guests might rightly be expecting a night with plenty of X Factor.

And those who turn out for Simon Cowell’s 50th birthday bash will surely not be disappointed.

CLICK TITLE OR HERE TO READ REMAINDER OF ARTICLE Sphere: Related Content

WILL AMERICAN IDOL'S RYAN SEACREST CAPTURE AN EMMY?

"Simon has placed himself as far away from Los Angeles on Emmy night as possible, just in case I happen to get lucky enough to win one," American Idol host Ryan Seacrest told eonline recently at Santa Monica's Huntley Hotel. He was there to celebrate his ad campaign for Scope Outlast and Crest Plus Scope Outlast toothpaste.

Seacrest is nominated for Outstanding Reality Host.

"He's confirmed he will be in London just so he's not there in case of the little possibility that I walk away with it," Seacrest laughed. Sphere: Related Content

WORD ON THE STREET: KARA DioGUARDI IS PLANNING A REALITY SHOW

Rumor has it that Kara DioGuardi is following in the footsteps of other American Idol judges -- in developing a new reality show.

"It's called Dropped,"DioGuardi told nymagazine. "I'm starting to shop it now. It takes the best acts that have been dropped and gives them a second chance. You look at Katy Perry, the Jonas Brothers, Alicia Keys, and Lady Gaga, they all have one thing in common: They've all been dropped from their labels. I was dropped. Think about how many times in your life you haven't achieved one goal, but you've achieved another one."

DioGuardi gave a hint to some details of the show. "[It'll be] 'You didn't get up at five this morning to go to a radio interview. How do you think that's doing to affect you?'"

As to whether she would host the show, DioGuardi is not ready to say. "Oh, my God, now we're getting into particulars ... All right, maybe! I shouldn't have opened my big mouth."

DioGuardi said that currently she is shopping the singing competition show to networks. Sphere: Related Content

RANDY JACKSON THINKS THAT ELLEN DeGENERES BRINGS THE PEOPLE'S VOICE TO THE SHOW

“I think we reached out a little bit,” American Idol judge Randy Jackson told PEOPLE Thursday. “We’re all friends with Ellen, and Ryan [Seacrest] and I are pretty close with her. She’s just mad cool."

Jackson opined that he thinks that DeGeneres will be good for Idol. “There’s so much music industry insider talk with me and Simon [Cowell] and Kara [DioGuardi] that I didn’t think we needed any more of that,” he told People. “Ellen hit it right on the head — I think she could be the voice of the people. It’s like somebody in the home audience watching and going, ‘What would I say [about this contestant]?’ Ellen’s going to be saying it for [them].”

But Jackson also lamented that Paula Abdul will no longer sitting at the Idol juding table. "She’s our dear friend,” he explained. "“Paula started this whole battle with us many seasons ago, before we all knew the show could be hot, and we love her and miss her. We were doing the auditions and I was looking across the table and it was like, ‘Where’s Paula? What’s going on?’ But you know, things happen, life is full of change sometimes. You know, I’m still sad about that." Sphere: Related Content

WITH DeGENERES COMING TO IDOL, WILL PAULA GUEST JUDGE ON SYTYCD?

Idol creator Simon Fuller, associated with both American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance, “started sniffing around and asked, ‘Are you interested?’ explained Paula Abdul's replacement on Idol, comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. "I said, ‘Yes, of course. I love that show and I’d love to do it,’”

So You Think You Can Dance executive producer Nigel Lythgoe is happy enough with the outcome because he hopes to have Abdul make appearances as a guest judge on his dance competition show. And he told EW, "I'd prefer Paula. "I think it is a great idea to put her on."

And now that DeGeneres is taking Abdul's seat on the American Idol judging panel, Abdul is free to make other plans for her career.

Some fans have expressed that Abdul on SYTYCD makes a lot of sense because of her dancing and choreography background -- but that they cannot understand why Idol would choose a judge from outside the music industry.

"I would really love to see Paula on So You Think You Can Dance," opined Melissa Parker from Los Angeles. "But I really don't know whether I will like American Idol with Ellen as a judge. She's fine on her talk show, but I think that is her strength."

Lythgoe thinks that DeGeneres will do well on Idol. “What it does is give the public, who are the people who decide in the end who is crowned the victor, a voice on the judges panel," Lythgoe told EW. "And they have never had that before."

In an interview with People, DeGeneres explained that it was her guest judging on an episode of So You Think You Can Dance that drew the attention of Idol judges to her.

DeGeneres said that on American Idol, she intends to be a compassionate judge, but that she will also be honest in assessing the contestant's performances. “I think it’s going to be hard, but as my career has grown," she told People. "I’ve learned how to be tougher and learned how to say no. I think I can do it and I think I can do it in a respectful way.” Sphere: Related Content

FORMER IDOL CONTESTANTS ON ELLEN PICK

Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL TWEETS

Would anyone expect that sweet Paula would be anything except -- well, sweet.

Paula reacted on Twitter:

"I think Ellen will b a gr8 judge on Idol. She is wildly funny, talented and I wish her the best of luck!" Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL HAS NAMED ITS NEW 'AMERICAN IDOL' JUDGE -- ELLEN DeGENERES

American Idol has its new fourth judge -- popular talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. Fox announced that the comedian and talk show host will join regular judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi for the upcoming season of the talent competition show when it resumes in January.

The announcement took many Idol fans by surprise, especially since DeGeneres has no formal music experience.

The announcement also will likely dash the hopes of Idol fans who hoped that eventually Paula Abdul would be brought back onto the show.

DeGeneres reportedly assured her talk show audience that she will not be abandoning her talk show, but would simply have "a day job and a night job."

There have been a series of judges taking turns in the fourth judge's seat while Fox sought a replacement for Abdul -- and since those judges had generally had strong musical backgrounds, it was generally expected that Abdul's permanent replacement would also emerge from the music industry.

"Hopefully, I'm the people's point of view because I'm just like you," DeGeneres said on her show. "I sit at home and I watch it, and I don't have that technical ... I'm not looking at it in a critical way from the producer's mind. I'm looking at it as a person who is going to buy the music and is going to relate to that person." Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL -- HARD AT WORK ON DIVAS!

Paula Abdul Tweets that she is "so excited about Divas! Can't wait!" And she just hours ago added, "Had a great weekend and now back to work rehearsing for Divas Live on Sept. 17. It's crunch time!"

Abdul has completed two episodes that are expected to air Sept. 13 and Oct. 11. And there is talk that she may appear on the second-season premiere.

“I'm playing a real judge in a courtroom speaking as Jane's [Brooke Elliott] conscience," she tells TV Guide. "I root her on and give her the gumption to do the things she needs to do to get what she wants.” Sphere: Related Content

FORMER AMERICAN IDOL CONTESTANT TO MARRY THIS WEEKEND

Sunday is the big day for former American Idol contestant Jim Verraros. It is the day that he plans to marry his partner, Bill Brennan.

The wedding plans have been described as "lavish" -- despite the fact that the ceremony will take place in Chicago, meaning that it will not be legal since Illinois does not recognize same sex marriages. The outdoor ceremony will have garden party atmosphere.

"We wanted to do this wedding as if it were legal," Verraros told Radar. "The fact that the state of Illinois doesn't recognize gay weddings wasn't stopping us."

And Verraros said that they hope to eventually add to their family. "Bill and I absolutely want to have children," said Verraros. "We're definitely looking forward to raising a family." Sphere: Related Content

WHEN SIMON COWELL SPEAKS, PEOPLE LISTEN

Several online sites gushed with the news that Simon Cowell had finally spoken about what it is like at American Idol auditions now that Paula Abdul is gone. No doubt, fans could hardly wait to hear what Simon had to say.

But the websites quoted Cowell as saying that the audition process is "different" without Paula -- that "it's like comparing a carrot to a banana." And he apparently added, "I miss her, of course."

What is amazing is that any fan would have already sensed that auditions are "different" without popular Paula -- and Cowell had already revealed that he missed her.

So it seems that Cowell is still staying quite silent on the subject of Abdul's departure from the popular vocal talent show. There was nothing new here. But when Simon speaks, people listen -- even if he is saying basically nothing at all. Sphere: Related Content

CARRIE UNDERWOOD'S NEW SINGLE LEAKS, SHE RESPONDS WITH OFFICIAL

Former American Idol Carrie Underwood learned that an unfinished version of her new single, Cowboy Casanova, had leaked -- so she rushed an official version via YouTube.

Cowboy Casanova is featured on Underwood's upcoming album, Play On, which is scheduled for release on Nov. 3rd. Underwood's collaborations on the project include Idol judge Kara DioGuardi and other recognizable industry names.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO COWBOY CASANOVA BY CARRIE UNDERWOOD Sphere: Related Content

THE AMERICAN IDOL GUEST JUDGES LIST GROWS LONGER

Another name has been added to the list of American Idol guest judges -- sitting in the chair vacated by Paula Abdul.

Pop singer Avril Lavigne will be switching off with Katy Perry in judging hopefuls in Los Angeles, it was revealed by MTV. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DANNY GOKEY INKS COUNTRY RECORD DEAL

American Idol finalist Danny Gokey has signed with RCA Nashville.

This marks the first time in history that American Idol's top four have all signed contracts with the show's 19 Entertainment. Earlier American Idol Kris Allen, runner-up Adam Lambert and fourth place finisher Allison Iraheta all announced deals with 19 Entertainment.

Gokey had been hinting for weeks that a record deal would be announced soon -- and that it would be in the country genre.

"I didn't realize the 'Idol' experience would give me a musical direction, but it did," said Gokey in a statement according to Billboard. "There were country songs that I performed on the show, and it was the message and the feeling in those kinds of songs that helped me realize that country is where I belong."

On Twitter, Gokey posted, "Exciting News ~ Its official Ive been signed!"


"Gokey's first single could drop in the fall, and an album will likely follow in March or April," according to MTV -- which also reported that no producer is attached to Gokey's album yet, but that he is "expected to enter a Nashville studio right after the current American Idols Live! tour ends September 15." Sphere: Related Content

KARA DioGUARDI SINGS 'NO BOUNDARIES' HERSELF

If American Idol Kris Allen was not going to sing "No Boundaries," AI judge Kara DioGuardi, who penned the song, decided to record it herself! Sphere: Related Content

SOME OF THE LATEST PAULA ABDUL QUOTES

“You know, to say ‘no regrets’ isn’t easy. I feel like I have been such a big, huge part of the success of the show from day one. I loved being able to be the artist’s artist; being there from my point of view of knowing what it feels like to be vulnerable and to be out there wanting to achieve the most magical moment in a minute and 30 seconds. To be able to do that was an amazing experience and the show was wonderful for me in that regard.” TV Guide interview, quotation from MSNBC

"There's a similarity to what I did [on 'Idol'] but expands it to everything I want to do. (Drop Dead Diva, two-episode stint, September 13 and October 11) It's really tongue-in-cheek and allows me to just go for it. When I saw the pilot, I'd never gone through such a full gamut of emotions — from feeling sad for someone and then feeling so thrilled for them, and in between that there's hysterical writing. It's such a charmed show that when I saw it I said, 'I'm in!' " quotation from MTV

"He misses me already." Paula said of American Idol judge Simon Cowell. The comment was made to TMZ, according to NY Daily News.

"I definitely want to do a talk show because it would be different. I'd be Paula. It would be a lot of fun variety with a ton of unexpected stuff and tributes to everyday people getting their big chance." Paula quoted by Us Magazine from TV Guide interview. Sphere: Related Content

SHANIA TWAIN ENJOYS STINT AS AMERICAN IDOL JUDGE

"She's loving American Idol," a source close to Shania Twain revealed to People.com. This week Twain is a guest judge for the show's auditions in Chicago.

"She and Simon have a really great rapport with each other," the source continued. "They're funny together."

And an Idol source revealed that Twain was not the only one enjoying her American Idol judging appearance -- explaining, "The crew loved working with her. Everyone thought she was a great addition to the judges table. She showed up in good spirits and had a lot of fun. She was clearly really excited to be a part of the day." Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL WILL WATCH THE AMERICAN IDOL SHOW

"I stand on principle where many people stand on money," Paula Abdul recently told TV Guide. "I'm a hard-working artist. I've lasted in this business for 23 years, and you can't do that unless you are good at what you do."

Abdul explained that when she decided to leave Idol, her decision was not made entirely based on salary.

"I believe in myself, and you have to have your own self-respect," Abdul told NY Daily News. "And sometimes decisions are very difficult to make, but I've always believed that at the core I'm a survivor. There's not one thing I've done that I've really set my mind to that I've failed at.

"I definitely want to do a talk show because it would be different. It would be a lot of fun variety with a ton of unexpected stuff and tributes to everyday people getting their big chance."

Abdul also revealed that she intends to watch American Idol.

"I'm very blessed to have been a part of what made television history," Adbdul continued. "I'm going to miss the experience of watching young talent evolve into a place where they get to take off and soar." Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL SPEAKS ABOUT HER FUTURE

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Sphere: Related Content

PHILIPPINES OFFICIALS INSISTED THAT DAVID COOK AND DAVID ARCHULETA SUBMIT TO SWINE FLU CHECKS

American Idol David Cook and runner-up David Archuleta had to submit to swine blue checks by government doctors after they landed in the Philippines for a concern, The Vancouver Sun reports.

Cook and Archuleta immediately contacted their lawyers when quarantine officials arrived at their hotel rooms late Wednesday, a day after their arrival, the Sun detailed.

"The officials were enforcing health regulations aimed at keeping the Southeast Asian nation of 90 million people free of the A(H1N1) virus, said Edgardo Sabitsana, director of the quarantine bureau," reported the Sun. "Sabitsana told reporters it took almost three hours to persuade the celebrities to meet the quarantine officials and that during that time the two Americans contacted their lawyers.

"He said the officials stressed to the two artists that the government could hold, arrest or detain people or even ban the planned concert over concerns about swine flu," continued the Sun. "The officials are scheduled to visit Cook and Archuleta again on Thursday, and their managers also pledged to have both checked for flu symptoms at least twice a day, Sabitsana said."

Philippine Health Secretary Francisco Duque said that by Thursday, there were no confirmed cases of the virus there. But he added that at public gatherings guidlines from the health department needed to be followed, and "this is now being applied to David Cook and David Archuleta." Sphere: Related Content

HEY, GUYS, AMERICAN IDOL KRIS ALLEN'S DEBUT ALBUM SET FOR RELEASE ON NOV 17

“Hey guys! The album is set to release Nov 17th,” wrote American Idol Kris Allen on Twitter late Thursday night.

The release date for Allen’s debut album had been rumored as November 17, but Allen made the release date official. What he did not mention and has fans curious is what the new album will be titled.

Allen has said in interviews that this will be a pop-rock album – and that “No Boundaries” will not be included.

On Monday Amazon began taking pre-orders for the album under the working title of New Release 2009, reported MTV. “Names like the Fray guitarist Joe King and hip-hop producer Salaam Remi have already been mentioned, but now, you can add the likes of Toby Gad (who produced Beyonce’s ‘If I Were a Boy’ and co-wrote Fergie’s ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’) and Lindy Robbins (who has worked with everyone from the Backstreet Boys to Lisa Loeb) to the roster too,” MTV listed as among Allen’s cast of talent tapped for the album.

And in an interview with the LATimes, Allen sometimes hinted at and sometimes revealed additional information on the birth of about the album.

Allen said, “I think the vision that I have for the first album is so hard to put into words. I know that it’s going to be music that people like and something that is hopefully different than maybe people have heard in a while or maybe ever. I hope that it’s something that grabs people lyrically-wise, subject matter and even musically as well, but something that’s different from what people are doing right now.

When asked whether he was writing songs for the album, Allen said, “I pushed for that. I wanted to be part of the writing process. I don’t know if I can. There’s so much going on right now with the tour and all that. But yeah, we’ve done a lot of co-writing sessions and it’s been an experience because you learn from people who have been writing songs for a long time.

“The first session I had went well, but the song didn’t end up as something I wanted to do on the album. I was intimidated, so I didn’t put my two cents in as much as I should have, but then the next one went really well and I got more comfortable. Same thing with the song though. Closer to what I wanted, but not completely there. And then I was with somebody yesterday and it was weird, but it went really well and I think it’s getting there. I really do. I’m excited.” Sphere: Related Content

COLBIE CAILLAT NOT SURE PAULA ABDUL IS LEAVING AMERICAN IDOL, BUT WOULD LIKE A CHANCE TO SIT IN PAULA'S CHAIR

"I'm not sure that Paula's really leaving," Colbie Caillat told MTV News in discussing Paula Abdul’s departure from the American Idol judging table. "I know everyone's saying that."

Caillat, who is working on her new album Breakthrough with Idol judge Kara DioGuardi, opined that Abdul held an important role on the vocal talent show – especially in giving contestants the support, guidance and confidence needed when they suddenly become thrust into the national spotlight in front of millions of television viewers, performing and receiving possibly mixed critiques from the show’s judges.

"Paula may have been too nice to them,” Caillat said, “but she also would tell them the great things about them. And people need that when their hearts are being shattered. They need that little boost of confidence."

Caillat, who says that she is also a big fan of DioGuardi’s judging on the show, also admitted that she would enjoy at shot at judging too. “"I would totally guest judge," she said. "For sure." Sphere: Related Content

MUSICAL CHAIRS CONTINUES WITH PAULA ABDUL'S FORMER SEAT

Is there no end to the list of guest judges showing up to sit in Paula Abdul's vacant seat as American Idol conducts its audition sweep across America?

Now comes Tony winner and Emmy nominee Kristin Chenoweth who takes a whirl at offering correct and helpful analysis to hopefuls -- and perhaps also a whirl at charming Idol execs into awarding her the seat permanently.

So while hopefuls are competing for a slot on the American Idol stage -- could it be that celebrities playing musical chairs in what was Paula's seat are actually competing for the full-time job?

Chenoweth is a classically trained vocalist, best known as the star of Pushing Daisies, who was an original cast member of the Broadway hit "Wicked." She also performed a solo concert at the Metropolitan Opera House in 2007 and won a Tony for her performance in musical, "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown." Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL GIVES AN EXCELLENT BIRTHDAY GIFT

The X Factor winner Alexandra Burke had an incredible 21st birthday! The X Factor and American Idol judge was able to skip a year-long waiting list and bought Alexandra her a designer Chanel handbag!

In fact, Cowell gave her the Chanel handbag, and fellow judge Dannii Minogue gave her a grey bag designed by Tabitha.

It was reported that Alexandra celebrated turning 21 in style by partying with last year's runners up JLS at the trendy London venue Nobu. Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL VEGAS BOUND? -- MAYBE

Former American Idol judge Paula Abdul is reportedly in talks for a revue-style stage show for Las Vegas, according to contactmusic.

Abdul is in the midst of serious discussions with The Venetian, the Wynn Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Hilton, according to Las Vegas Review-Journal.

It is also reported that there were rumors last year that Abdul was then in talks with several Las Vegas casinos to headline a show which would have been late this year. And it is said as far back as 2006 there were rumors linking Abdul to possibly starring in Vegas -- at that time it was with the Silverton Hotel, but apparently the talks fell through. Sphere: Related Content

QUEEN LATIFAH HAS BEEN ASKED TO GUEST JUDGE

The list of guest judges on American Idol keeps expanding.

Queen Latifah has said that she has been asked to be a guest judge, but she has not yet decided whether she will accept the opportunity.

"I don't know if I'll come on the show or not, but it would be an honor," she told acccsshollywood. "I don't want to replace Paula Abdul. I feel like she is irreplaceable." Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL DAVID COOK SENDS CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY OF SEN. EDWARD KENNEDY

Former American Idol David Cook was among celebrities posting a message on Twitter expressing sympathy to the family of Sen. Edward Kennedy. Kennedy, 77, died late Tuesday night at his Hyannis Port home.

Cook expressed, "My sincere condolences go out to Ted Kennedy's family. ~D" Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DANNY GOKEY HAS REASON TO SMILE -- A RECORD DEAL MAY BE ANNOUNCED SOON

"I want my first record to be done well," American Idol finalist Danny Gokey recently revealed to buddytv. "I'm not interested in making the million dollars. I'll climb the ladder slowly and build myself up, learn the industry, learn what's good and not good."

Gokey has been hinting for a couple of weeks that a record deal will be announced soon.

When asked to reveal a bit about what kind of album he expects to make, Gokey replied, "Country is more about the message than it is about the twang," he said. "In the past I've always picked songs that have a strong message, and that's what country carries [to me]." Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL ADDS NEIL PATRICK HARRIS TO GUEST JUDGE LIST

Actor Neil Patrick Harris, who hosted the Tony Awards this year, joined regular American Idol judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi during auditions on Tuesday in Dallas, according to E!Online.

Harris becomes the eighth guest judge to sit in the judging post vacated this season by Paula Abdul.

On stage, Harris, known for "How I Met Your Mother", has performed in "Rent" and "Sweeney Todd." He also played the title character in "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog." Sphere: Related Content

LOOK ALIKES -- RYAN SEACREST AND THE X FACTOR CONTESTANT DANYL JOHNSON

The 27-year-old school teacher, Danyl Johnson, who wowed American Idol judge Simon Cowell during British "The X Factor" auditions has been said to resemble Idol host Ryan Seacrest.



"Even the man in the white T-shirt, Simon Cowell gave the Ryan Seacrest lookalike a standing ovation," reported thespoof.com.

Everyone is likely to have their own opinions as to whether Johnson actually looks like Seacrest, but one thing is for certain -- they both undoubtedly have exciting careers ahead. Sphere: Related Content

PAULA -- A MILLION FOLLOWERS

Former American Idol judge Paula Abdul celebrated a special occasion today -- she passed the mark for having 1 million followers on Twitter.

Abdul, who keeps in frequent contact with fans on Twitter, wrote: "I am overjoyed. 1,000,000+ followers! Woop Woop! Thank you all so much for supporting me. I am truly blessed to have such amazing fans. xxoP" Sphere: Related Content

PAULA HAS GOTTEN A JOB

Former American Idol judge Paula Abdul will host VH1's "Divas" special in September, it has been announced.

Abdul tweeted on Monday night: "Hi guys! i'm really excited 2 announce ill b hosting this year's "Vh1 Divas"!The show will be live on Sept 17th @ 9 pm EST."

Miley Cyrus, Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis, Adele and Jordin Sparks are all expected to perform on the show that will air live from the Brooklyn Academy of Music Howard Gilman Opera House in New York.

Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL WOWED BY SCHOOL TEACHER AT THE X FACTOR AUDITIONS

When 27-year-old British school teacher Danyl Johnson stepped onto the stage and belted out an energetic rendition of the Beatles "With A Little Help From My Friends," he must have been living his dream come true.

Prior to his audition, Johnson, who was playing hookey from school, said, "I am so nervous to get on that stage. It means so much to me. ... It would be amazing to go back to school and make everyone proud."

On stage, after a few moments of preparations and silence, Johnson began the first slow notes of his performance. But within seconds the tempo accelerated to a more feverish pace as he first sat on the side of the stage before the judges and then moved to take over and covered the entire stage.

For the first time, auditions for Britain's The X Factor were being held in front of a studio audience -- and with Johnson's performance, the last of the day, the entire audience jumped to their feet and gave a thunderous applause!

One judge after another complimented Johnson.

Then it was time to hear the evaluation from the final judge, the ever blunt Simon Cowell.

"Okay, Danyl," spoke Cowell. "I've been doing this for how many years -- eight or nine years. Okay, Danyl, that was single-handedly the best first audition I have ever heard!"

After the audition, Cowell said, "I like this boy -- teaches kids. Great voice, but a great great performer. I think he could be one of the best contestants we have ever had!"


CLICK HERE TO WATCH DANYL JOHNSON'S AUDITION/THE X FACTOR Sphere: Related Content

JOE JONAS CAPTURES ATTENTION AT AMERICAN IDOL AUDITIONS IN DALLAS

Along with American Idol regular judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi, the middle Jonas brother, Joe, has been aboard Dallas auditions for the popular television talent show.

Hopefuls began to fall into line in pre-dawn hours, some of them hoping to begin a journey toward becoming the next American Idol -- and some, especially young girls, hoping for a glimpse of Jonas. These hopefuls, by the way, "are cautioned not to talk with the media, and the auditions are closed to reporters from outlets other than Fox News," reports Dallas News.

Four young girls, described as two pairs of friends who met when they showed up to catch a glimpse of Jonas at American Airlines Center in May, arrived in hopes of seeing Jonas again.

When Joe Jonas stepped from his "limo in front of the W at about 1 p.m. Monday, the four girls were standing right behind the velvet ropes, cameras and band paraphernalia in hands. Jonas gave the girls hugs and autographs and posed for pictures. After about five minutes, he continued inside, and the four teenagers erupted in squeals and giddy praises," reported Dallas News which cited the girls' comments:

"Oh, my God, he's flawless!"

"His eyes are so pretty!"

"He's adorable!"

"I'm going to savor this picture forever," Lauren said, looking at the photo on her camera.

"It was great," Holly said. "It was totally worth missing school."

Another Jonas fan said that she was there for a dual purpose, wanting both to make it to Hollywood and "see Joe Jonas in person too." But, in the end, the young lady ran out of time waiting -- and had to move along to her waitressing job instead of taking a shot at Hollywood and her dream of having Jonas see her and "instantly fall in love." Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST MICHAEL JOHNS PREDICTS PAULA WILL RETURN TO IDOL AND ALLISON IRAHETA'S CAREER WILL SOAR

American Idol finalist Michael Johns, a good friend of Paula Abdul, believes that her return to the American Idol juding panel remains a possibility.

"She will be there, you watch," Johns told Foxnews at the 8th Annual In-Style Summer Soiree on Thursday evening. "We've been talking and texting a bunch. She was just upset that they didn't give her what she deserved. She wasn't asking for the same money as Ryan Seacrest. She wanted almost half that -- $20 million over three years. I love her, and she has a bunch of opportunities coming her way."



And on the subject of whether Idol runner-up Adam Lambert got cheated when Kris Allen instead won the title, Johns told foxnews, "Kris Allen was definitely the rightful winner. Both he and Adam Lambert will have good careers, but I think that Allison (Iraheta) will actually have the biggest career of them all." Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL RUNNER-UP ADAM LAMBERT TEAMS WITH ORGANIZATION TO RAISE MONEY FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL CLASSROOMS

American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert is teaming with education charity organization DonorsChoose is raising funds to support needy public school classrooms, according to that organization.

On the organization's website is an article titled, "Top Giving: Adam Lambert Supports Education." In part it reads, "Adam Lambert Fans! Join Adam and give a 'Whole Lotta Love' to public schools .... Any donation amount can help students across the country get the resources they need to learn -- or to thrive in music and theater, like Adam! Our top 10 most generous donors will receive signed photos by Adam and the Fan Group with the most donations will receive an exclusive online chat session with Adam!"

"My fans have been so amazing in support that I would love for them to contribute to something I believe in," explained Lambert. "Every kid deserves a great education and access to the materials and experiences that make it possible. I'm so thrilled to team up with DonorsChoose.org and encourage my fans to support arts and music projects in the classroom. Plus, I can't wait to see the resultss of the competition!" Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST MEGAN JOY WILL HOST "ALL AMERICAN IDOL" COMPETITION TO RAISE MONEY TO HELP SINGLE MOTHERS

American Idol finalist Megan Joy will host the first of what will be an annual "All American Idol" competition for Bethel Foundation in Oklahoma City this fall.

"The foundation was recently contacted by Megan Joy from the Fox Network's American Idol Season 8," reports the foundation. "Megan expressed her desire to assist in raising money for the organization that helps get single mothers back on their feet.

"This event will not only increase funds and heighten awareness for Bethel Foundation, but also give upcoming artists a chance to display their talents and take the next step in their career."

The grand prize package is said to be worth more than $5,000 and includes a one-year contract with an entertainment consulting firm, a 10-song demo and $500 cash. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DANNY GOKEY HINTS AT POSSIBLE RECORD DEAL

When American Idol finalist Danny Gokey was asked about a recording contract, he responded to realitytvworld, "All I can say is there's good news."

"That's all I can say," he continued. "There's good news on the horizon. I've been told to keep my mouth kind of quiet about it. So that's our little secret. It's gotta be done properly; they're not going to start talking about it."

Gokey, who is currently on the American Idol tour, has reportedly spoken with 19 Recordings, Sony Nashville and Christian music label Word, according to Morning Call. Sphere: Related Content

SIMON COWELL HAS A SOFT SPORT FOR DOGS

American Idol's Simon Cowell, known for his sometimes harsh "tell-it-like-it-is" judging style, actually has a soft spot in his heart -- for dogs!

Cowell is donating about $165,000 a year to fund a dogs' home run by former Exorcist star, Linda Blair, according to The Sun newspaper. "He doesn't like talking about it as he sees it as a private arrangement," a source told thesun. The shelter provides care for neglected and abandoned dogs.

"Simon is a huge dog lover," a source told thaindiannews. "But because he's always travelling, he can't have one. He thought it would be a great idea to help Linda out."

Cowell has a history of helping animals, and has reportedly claimed that he expects to leave the bulk of his multi-million dollar fortune to pet shelters, according to thaindiannews. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL KRIS ALLEN EXPLAINS THAT IDOL FINALISTS HAVE THEIR OWN KIND OF FRATERNITY

"People have said that once you get onto the show and make it that far, you're in this kind of fraternity, and as weird as this is, it's true," explained American Idol Kris Allen.

In discussing the American Idol tour, Allen told californiachronicle "It's not the easiest thing in the world. There's not a whole lot of sleep, and you're not on any kind of schedule. You arrive in some places at 5 or 6 in the morning, then some places at 1 or 2 -- it's always different. But every night is totally worth it. The shows are what we do this for."

Allen said that Chris Daughtry, finalist in 2006 and now frontman for the band Daughtry, advised him early on to get as much sleep as he could.

In speaking of Daughtry, Allen explained, "We've dealt with a lot of the same people, gone through the same things. There are good things about it, bad things about it -- there's plenty to talk about with each other. People said that once you get onto the show and made it that far, you're in this ... fraternity, and it's true. We all have each other's back."

Further evidence of the fraternity among Idol finalists of different seasons is checking them on Twitter. Each of the finalists can be observed not only following finalists of their own season, but finalists of other seasons as well.

A perfect example is this season finalist Danny Gokey who follows, among others, Kris Allen, David Archuleta, Carrie Underwood, David Cook, Adam Lambert, Jason Castro, Scott MacIntyre, Megan Joy, Phil Stacey, Allison Iraheta, Matt Giraud, Paula Abdul, Ryan Seacrest and Anoop Desai.

Also reportedly revealed in that interview, Allen's favorite judge was the one who has become known as "the judge with a heart," Paula Abdul. Allen has said that he really hopes that something can be worked out between Idol executives and Abdul to keep her on the show. Sphere: Related Content

KRISTEN STEWART AND TAYLOR LAUTNER WOULD LIKE TO SING ON AMERICAN IDOL

Twilight stars Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner both revealed a secret wish -- to sing on American Idol!

Both Stewart and Lautner, during an interview with Entertainment Weekly, revealed that they would enjoy performing a duet on the popular talent competition show.

The couple explained that they are Idol fans -- and thought that singing on Idol would be fun.

"I am kind of addicted (to Idol)," Lautner told ew. And Stewart chimed in, "I want to go on American Idol with Taylor." She said that she thought they should perform "Love Story, totally .... the Taylor Swift song." Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL IS CRITICAL TO AMERICAN IDOL OPINES FORMER IDOL FINALIST BO BICE

Paula is criticial to American Idol's success, says former Idol finalist Bo Bice.

"If you took away Randy or you took away Paula or you took away Simon, you're changing the dynamic of what made the show great," Fox news quoted Bice who recently had the opportunity to entertain troops in Afghanistan.

"I don't think it (American Idol) could equally handle the loss on either end of which way the teeter tot goes," he added, "whether it be Simon or Paula. It's like having a hit show, take Joey out of 'Friends' ... would it still be still be just as big of a hit?"

While Abdul's manager says that Idol executives and Abdul are not in talks for her return to American Idol, he added that other offers have been flooding in. But thus far no solid deals have reported as inked. ABC wanted Paula for a celebrity dance gig on Dancing With the Stars and a guest spot on Ugly Betty, but that deal never happened.

Nigel Lythgoe, judge of So You Think You Can Dance, told extra, "We're still talking and we will continue to talk ... I would still like to see her do 'American Idol,' with guesting on 'So You Think You Can Dance' -- that would be perfect for me."

And Idol fans are frustrated that American Idol appears unwilling to do what it takes to get their "judge with a heart" back on the show. They have been saying that Idol without Paula is not really good for anyone -- the show, Abdul or Idol fans. As one fan put it, American Idol without Paula is "like a dog with three legs" -- the dog can still hobble along, but not like the dog it once was." Sphere: Related Content

JOE JONAS WILL GUEST JUDGE FOR AMERICAN IDOL ON MONDAY IN DALLAS

Along with Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi, Joe Jonas will be sitting on the judging panel for auditions in Dallas on Monday!

A representative for the middle Jonas confirmed to People Magazine that Joe Jonas will be at the Dallas auditions lending his assessments and advice to American Idol hopefuls.

The list of American Idol guest hosts has continued to grow, including Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry, Shania Twain and Joe Jonas.

However, rumors that Kelly Clarkson would also join the guest judging ranks are false, her representative told Us Weekly. Sphere: Related Content

HOW TALL IS RYAN SEACREST? -- NO ONE REALLY CARES!

American Idol host Ryan Seacrest apparently taped some TV segments outside of Idol auditions while "standing on top of a large box to appear taller for cameras," reported buzznet. That article lists Seacrest at 5 ft 8.

"According to Ryan John Seacrest he is 5 ft 9, but some other people say that he is not much (taller) than 5 ft 6," cites news.puggal.

One person posted on yahoo, "When I tried out for American Idol, I had the opportunity to stand next to Ryan Seacrest. I am 5' 7" tall, and Mr. Seacrest was about half a head shorter than me."

Regardless of his actual height, Seacrest has proven himself to be a "big" draw on the American Idol television show -- and likely that is the only kind of big that Idol execs care about. And, of course, fans love Seacrest at whatever his height actually is! In the end, this is another of those often chatted about "so what" issues. Everyone seems to love Seacrest, and no one really cares at all about how tall he is!" Sphere: Related Content