By Katie Byrne
"The Real World" has been around for 18 years and 24 seasons, and there have been plenty of success stories to emerge from the groundbreaking reality series. There's "The Real World: London" alum Jacinda Barrett, an actress who has starred in "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason" and "The Last Kiss," or Kevin Powell from the show's first season, "The Real World: New York," who went on to be a poet and political activist.
But yesterday had to be one of the biggest days for "Real World" alumni since the show launched in 1992. Sean Duffy, from "The Real World: Boston," was elected to Congress in his home state of Wisconsin, nabbing 52 percent of the vote for a spot in the U.S. House of Representatives. Also on Tuesday, it was announced that Jamie Chung, a "Real World: San Diego" castmember, landed the coveted role of Stu's (Ed Helms...
"The Real World" has been around for 18 years and 24 seasons, and there have been plenty of success stories to emerge from the groundbreaking reality series. There's "The Real World: London" alum Jacinda Barrett, an actress who has starred in "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason" and "The Last Kiss," or Kevin Powell from the show's first season, "The Real World: New York," who went on to be a poet and political activist.
But yesterday had to be one of the biggest days for "Real World" alumni since the show launched in 1992. Sean Duffy, from "The Real World: Boston," was elected to Congress in his home state of Wisconsin, nabbing 52 percent of the vote for a spot in the U.S. House of Representatives. Also on Tuesday, it was announced that Jamie Chung, a "Real World: San Diego" castmember, landed the coveted role of Stu's (Ed Helms...
- 11/3/2010
- by MTV News
- MTV Newsroom
By Katie Byrne
About halfway through Miike Snow's concert Friday (October 15) at the Wiltern in Los Angeles, I had a revelation: I know every song that will be played during this show. Why? Because Miike Snow only have one album.
It's a safe bet that everyone at the concert owned that self-titled album or they wouldn't have been there, so we were all more or less the same level of Miike Snow fan. It's not like going to a Radiohead show, where the die-hards would rather hear a U.K. B-side than a radio single and would look on in disgust as the lesser fans sang every word of "Creep" louder than Thom Yorke. There's something unique about that first tour after a debut album. Everyone is really pumped up about that band, but one less-successful follow-up, and half the crowd might not be back for another live show.
About halfway through Miike Snow's concert Friday (October 15) at the Wiltern in Los Angeles, I had a revelation: I know every song that will be played during this show. Why? Because Miike Snow only have one album.
It's a safe bet that everyone at the concert owned that self-titled album or they wouldn't have been there, so we were all more or less the same level of Miike Snow fan. It's not like going to a Radiohead show, where the die-hards would rather hear a U.K. B-side than a radio single and would look on in disgust as the lesser fans sang every word of "Creep" louder than Thom Yorke. There's something unique about that first tour after a debut album. Everyone is really pumped up about that band, but one less-successful follow-up, and half the crowd might not be back for another live show.
- 10/18/2010
- by MTV News
- MTV Newsroom
Everyone gets in on the hair-whipping action in the colorful clip.
By Katie Byrne
Willow Smith
Photo: Getty Images
As far as pop stars are concerned, Willow Smith is about as unique as they come. For one, there are those famous movie-star parents of hers. Plus, she has a fashion sense that is all her own. Oh yeah, and did we mention she's only 9 years old?
It was all too fitting, then, that the video for her debut single, "Whip My Hair" — which hit her website late Monday (October 18) — drives home the importance of individuality.
The clip opens in an all-white classroom filled with kids who look bored out of their minds. Enter Willow, dressed like a real-life Rainbow Brite, ready to shake these kids out of their routine. Debuting the first of the clip's many hairstyles, Willow dips her long braids into bright-colored paints and begins to whip her...
By Katie Byrne
Willow Smith
Photo: Getty Images
As far as pop stars are concerned, Willow Smith is about as unique as they come. For one, there are those famous movie-star parents of hers. Plus, she has a fashion sense that is all her own. Oh yeah, and did we mention she's only 9 years old?
It was all too fitting, then, that the video for her debut single, "Whip My Hair" — which hit her website late Monday (October 18) — drives home the importance of individuality.
The clip opens in an all-white classroom filled with kids who look bored out of their minds. Enter Willow, dressed like a real-life Rainbow Brite, ready to shake these kids out of their routine. Debuting the first of the clip's many hairstyles, Willow dips her long braids into bright-colored paints and begins to whip her...
- 10/18/2010
- MTV Music News
Egypt Daoud Dean is the couple's first child together.
By Katie Byrne
Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Photo: Bryan Bedder/ Getty Images
Alicia Keys gave birth Thursday to Egypt Daoud Dean, her son with producer husband Swizz Beatz.
"Swizz 'Kaseem Dean' Beatz, 32 and Alicia Keys, 29 welcomed their first child together, a son Egypt Daoud Dean on October 14th in New York City," a rep for the couple confirmed to MTV News. "Egypt is welcomed by Beatz's three other children."
On Thursday, Swizz hit Twitter and reflected on his good fortunes: "I'm so thankful for everything I been blessed with in my life wowwwwww! #realtalk"
Swizz has two sons, Kasseem Jr. and Prince, and a daughter from previous relationships; Egypt is Keys' first child. The couple announced they were expecting in late May, at the same time they revealed they were engaged.
Keys and Beatz got married July 31 at a private...
By Katie Byrne
Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Photo: Bryan Bedder/ Getty Images
Alicia Keys gave birth Thursday to Egypt Daoud Dean, her son with producer husband Swizz Beatz.
"Swizz 'Kaseem Dean' Beatz, 32 and Alicia Keys, 29 welcomed their first child together, a son Egypt Daoud Dean on October 14th in New York City," a rep for the couple confirmed to MTV News. "Egypt is welcomed by Beatz's three other children."
On Thursday, Swizz hit Twitter and reflected on his good fortunes: "I'm so thankful for everything I been blessed with in my life wowwwwww! #realtalk"
Swizz has two sons, Kasseem Jr. and Prince, and a daughter from previous relationships; Egypt is Keys' first child. The couple announced they were expecting in late May, at the same time they revealed they were engaged.
Keys and Beatz got married July 31 at a private...
- 10/15/2010
- MTV Music News
Memories Tour will make two-night stops in L.A. and San Francisco.
By Katie Byrne
Weezer's Rivers Cuomo
Photo: Tim Mosenfelder/ Getty Images
Weezer are men of their word. Last month, when we visited the set of Weezer's "Memories" video in Sun Valley, California, frontman Rivers Cuomo revealed exclusively to MTV News that they had an ambitious tour concept cooking.
"We have this really exciting idea to do a tour where we spend two nights in each city, and the first night, we play the entire Blue Album, and the second night, we play the entirety of Pinkerton," Cuomo said, invoking the names of the band's first two albums. "We're just running it by promoters right now to see if there's sufficient interest in the markets to do something like that, and if they're onboard, it's gonna happen."
Apparently the interest was there: Weezer have announced on their website that...
By Katie Byrne
Weezer's Rivers Cuomo
Photo: Tim Mosenfelder/ Getty Images
Weezer are men of their word. Last month, when we visited the set of Weezer's "Memories" video in Sun Valley, California, frontman Rivers Cuomo revealed exclusively to MTV News that they had an ambitious tour concept cooking.
"We have this really exciting idea to do a tour where we spend two nights in each city, and the first night, we play the entire Blue Album, and the second night, we play the entirety of Pinkerton," Cuomo said, invoking the names of the band's first two albums. "We're just running it by promoters right now to see if there's sufficient interest in the markets to do something like that, and if they're onboard, it's gonna happen."
Apparently the interest was there: Weezer have announced on their website that...
- 9/23/2010
- MTV Music News
New panelists will be revealed at a news conference Wednesday.
By Katie Byrne
Photo: Fox
Now that we know Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi are out, who's in? After months of speculation, "American Idol" will finally announce the season-10 judges' panel next week. Ryan Seacrest will make the announcement at a news conference at the Forum in Inglewood, California, on Wednesday at noon Pt, joined by the new judges.
Original judge Randy Jackson appears to be the only returning panelist, although even he hasn't been confirmed for the next season. The loudest rumors have Jackson joined by Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler and singer/actress Jennifer Lopez. Whether the panel will return to the three-person format it started with or add a wild card into the mix as a fourth judge is unknown.
Back in July, Tyler was asked what he would be up to following Aerosmith's tour,...
By Katie Byrne
Photo: Fox
Now that we know Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi are out, who's in? After months of speculation, "American Idol" will finally announce the season-10 judges' panel next week. Ryan Seacrest will make the announcement at a news conference at the Forum in Inglewood, California, on Wednesday at noon Pt, joined by the new judges.
Original judge Randy Jackson appears to be the only returning panelist, although even he hasn't been confirmed for the next season. The loudest rumors have Jackson joined by Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler and singer/actress Jennifer Lopez. Whether the panel will return to the three-person format it started with or add a wild card into the mix as a fourth judge is unknown.
Back in July, Tyler was asked what he would be up to following Aerosmith's tour,...
- 9/16/2010
- MTV Music News
'I just think it's time,' he says of his exit after next season.
By Katie Byrne
Steve Carrell
Photo: Getty Images
Steve Carell has confirmed that he is leaving NBC's "The Office" after next season.
"I just think it's time," he told E! News on the red carpet for "Despicable Me," the upcoming animated movie he provides a voice for. "I want to fulfill my contract. When I first signed on, I had a contract for seven seasons, and this coming year is my seventh. I just thought it was time for my character to go."
Fans might disagree, but Carell seems to think the show can go on without his clueless boss, Michael Scott. "It doesn't certainly mean the end of the show," he said. "I think it's just a dynamic change to the show, which could be a good thing, actually. Add some new life and some new energy.
By Katie Byrne
Steve Carrell
Photo: Getty Images
Steve Carell has confirmed that he is leaving NBC's "The Office" after next season.
"I just think it's time," he told E! News on the red carpet for "Despicable Me," the upcoming animated movie he provides a voice for. "I want to fulfill my contract. When I first signed on, I had a contract for seven seasons, and this coming year is my seventh. I just thought it was time for my character to go."
Fans might disagree, but Carell seems to think the show can go on without his clueless boss, Michael Scott. "It doesn't certainly mean the end of the show," he said. "I think it's just a dynamic change to the show, which could be a good thing, actually. Add some new life and some new energy.
- 6/28/2010
- MTV Music News
'There's some songs I never would have sang in a million years, but I signed up for it,' he says.
By Katie Byrne
Lee DeWyze
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Fox
Lee DeWyze proved on "American Idol" that everyone truly loves an underdog. He might not have started out as a bold-faced name on season nine, but his consistent growth from ball-of-nerves to confident rocker resonated with America and landed him the coveted crown on Wednesday night.
We caught up with Lee on Friday (May 28) to talk about the show's frustrating theme weeks, how he chose U2's "Beautiful Day" as his first single and what his upcoming album will sound like.
Q: The judges often talk about showing who you'll be as an artist, but then you're forced to sing songs out of your comfort zone with the different theme weeks. Was that frustrating?
A: I think a big part...
By Katie Byrne
Lee DeWyze
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Fox
Lee DeWyze proved on "American Idol" that everyone truly loves an underdog. He might not have started out as a bold-faced name on season nine, but his consistent growth from ball-of-nerves to confident rocker resonated with America and landed him the coveted crown on Wednesday night.
We caught up with Lee on Friday (May 28) to talk about the show's frustrating theme weeks, how he chose U2's "Beautiful Day" as his first single and what his upcoming album will sound like.
Q: The judges often talk about showing who you'll be as an artist, but then you're forced to sing songs out of your comfort zone with the different theme weeks. Was that frustrating?
A: I think a big part...
- 5/28/2010
- MTV Music News
'I looked up at his confetti falling down, and I thought, 'This is my confetti,' ' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Crystal Bowersox
Photo: Jesse Grant/ WireImage
As we've learned over the past two seasons, "American Idol" fans don't like being told by the judges who will win the singing competition before we're even to the top 12. Adam Lambert and Crystal Bowersox were the front-runners so early in their respective seasons that there was no room for growth — and both finished as the runner-up.
We caught up with Crystal on Friday (May 28) to find out the real story behind those quitting rumors, whether she expected Lee DeWyze to win and what she thinks about replacing Simon Cowell.
Q: A lot was made of the rumors that you nearly quit the show and then got talked out of it by Ryan Seacrest. What happened that day?
A: Ryan and I...
By Katie Byrne
Crystal Bowersox
Photo: Jesse Grant/ WireImage
As we've learned over the past two seasons, "American Idol" fans don't like being told by the judges who will win the singing competition before we're even to the top 12. Adam Lambert and Crystal Bowersox were the front-runners so early in their respective seasons that there was no room for growth — and both finished as the runner-up.
We caught up with Crystal on Friday (May 28) to find out the real story behind those quitting rumors, whether she expected Lee DeWyze to win and what she thinks about replacing Simon Cowell.
Q: A lot was made of the rumors that you nearly quit the show and then got talked out of it by Ryan Seacrest. What happened that day?
A: Ryan and I...
- 5/28/2010
- MTV Music News
Rep says the couple will be 'married in a private ceremony later this year.'
By Katie Byrne
Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Photo: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz confirmed late Thursday (May 27) they are engaged and expecting their first child together.
The musicians "are expecting a baby and are engaged to be married in a private ceremony later this year," reps for the couple said.
Keys and Swizz Beatz (real name: Kasseem Dean) have had a musical partnership for years, collaborating on Keys' albums and, last year, on Whitney Houston's comeback single "Million Dollar Bill." Swizz spoke with MTV News in July about collaborating with his now-fiancée on Houston's album.
"At the time, I was working on some stuff with Alicia," Swizz said. "I was like, 'We need to bring Whitney back. We need to do some stuff to support Whitney.' Then Alicia was like,...
By Katie Byrne
Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Photo: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz confirmed late Thursday (May 27) they are engaged and expecting their first child together.
The musicians "are expecting a baby and are engaged to be married in a private ceremony later this year," reps for the couple said.
Keys and Swizz Beatz (real name: Kasseem Dean) have had a musical partnership for years, collaborating on Keys' albums and, last year, on Whitney Houston's comeback single "Million Dollar Bill." Swizz spoke with MTV News in July about collaborating with his now-fiancée on Houston's album.
"At the time, I was working on some stuff with Alicia," Swizz said. "I was like, 'We need to bring Whitney back. We need to do some stuff to support Whitney.' Then Alicia was like,...
- 5/27/2010
- MTV Music News
'Every week to me is 'sing for your life,' because nothing is guaranteed for you on the show,' Lynche says.
By Katie Byrne
Michael Lynche
Photo: Fox
"American Idol" voters eliminated Michael Lynche back in the top nine, but the judges swooped in to save the burly R&B crooner. Then a funny thing happened: Big Mike lasted five more weeks, apparently winning over a few more voters after his near-exit.
His run ended, however, after a Movie Night performance of Michael Jackson's "Free Willy" anthem "Will You Be There." We caught up with the 26-year-old dad to talk about the judges' save and his Hollywood Week dilemma.
Q: What was your mind-set before the elimination announcement? Were you expecting to go home, or were you surprised?
Michael Lynche: Not surprised and not expected. I just think America's a fickle creature, and she's shown that as the competition has gone on.
By Katie Byrne
Michael Lynche
Photo: Fox
"American Idol" voters eliminated Michael Lynche back in the top nine, but the judges swooped in to save the burly R&B crooner. Then a funny thing happened: Big Mike lasted five more weeks, apparently winning over a few more voters after his near-exit.
His run ended, however, after a Movie Night performance of Michael Jackson's "Free Willy" anthem "Will You Be There." We caught up with the 26-year-old dad to talk about the judges' save and his Hollywood Week dilemma.
Q: What was your mind-set before the elimination announcement? Were you expecting to go home, or were you surprised?
Michael Lynche: Not surprised and not expected. I just think America's a fickle creature, and she's shown that as the competition has gone on.
- 5/13/2010
- MTV Music News
'I do what I do because it rests well on my heart and who I am,' latest castoff says.
By Katie Byrne
Siobhan Magnus
Photo: Fox
Siobhan Magnus never quite fit into the "American Idol" mold — and that's exactly how she liked it. But she might have stretched a bit too far with her honky-tonk/screamo performance of Shania Twain's "Any Man of Mine," getting eliminated Wednesday night.
We caught up with the 20-year-old glassblower from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, on Thursday (April 29) to find out what's next and where she learned to hit those gigantic notes.
Q: Where did you learn to hit those big notes?
A: I'm pretty sure I figured out how to do that in the shower in high school one night. [Laughs.] I'm an avid shower singer, much to the dismay of my family and my neighbors, but I was singing a Kelly Clarkson song,...
By Katie Byrne
Siobhan Magnus
Photo: Fox
Siobhan Magnus never quite fit into the "American Idol" mold — and that's exactly how she liked it. But she might have stretched a bit too far with her honky-tonk/screamo performance of Shania Twain's "Any Man of Mine," getting eliminated Wednesday night.
We caught up with the 20-year-old glassblower from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, on Thursday (April 29) to find out what's next and where she learned to hit those gigantic notes.
Q: Where did you learn to hit those big notes?
A: I'm pretty sure I figured out how to do that in the shower in high school one night. [Laughs.] I'm an avid shower singer, much to the dismay of my family and my neighbors, but I was singing a Kelly Clarkson song,...
- 4/29/2010
- MTV Music News
Singer plays the harmonica, harmonizes with Gary LeVox for free-sprit performance.
By Katie Byrne
Shakira performs on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
Shakira busted out her best Stevie Nicks ensemble during "American Idol" to perform her new single, "Gypsy," with a little help from Rascal Flatts.
The free-spirit singer — wearing a sparkly tank top, dangling earrings and a floor-length red skirt — started the song out on harmonica. During the first verse, she was joined by some interpretive backup dancers and even threw in some moves herself.
Rascal Flatts singer Gary LeVox then chimed in with backing vocals. As the pair harmonized, they headed to a platform behind the "Idol" judges and Shakira showed off some of her trademark hip-swiveling. She even pulled the harmonica back out to close up the song.
After the performance, host Ryan Seacrest said what most of the viewers were probably thinking: "Gary LeVox and Shakira...
By Katie Byrne
Shakira performs on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
Shakira busted out her best Stevie Nicks ensemble during "American Idol" to perform her new single, "Gypsy," with a little help from Rascal Flatts.
The free-spirit singer — wearing a sparkly tank top, dangling earrings and a floor-length red skirt — started the song out on harmonica. During the first verse, she was joined by some interpretive backup dancers and even threw in some moves herself.
Rascal Flatts singer Gary LeVox then chimed in with backing vocals. As the pair harmonized, they headed to a platform behind the "Idol" judges and Shakira showed off some of her trademark hip-swiveling. She even pulled the harmonica back out to close up the song.
After the performance, host Ryan Seacrest said what most of the viewers were probably thinking: "Gary LeVox and Shakira...
- 4/28/2010
- MTV Music News
'Guess who's back? Siobhan!' Kara DioGuardi says after the Shania Twain Week performance.
By Katie Byrne
Siobhan Magnus on "American Idol" Tuesday
Photo: Fox
Country Week is always a wild card on "American Idol," either forcing some creativity from contestants working out of their comfort zones or burying them alive. Since Siobhan Magnus is a bit of a wild card herself, she had no problem tackling Shania Twain Week and making it work for her big voice and oddball sensibility.
Magnus chose "Any Man of Mine," keeping a pretty traditional country arrangement but speeding it up a notch. Twain, who opened up her songbook for the week and acted as mentor, warned Magnus that the song is "all about attitude. You've got to put some attitude in those lyrics."
Siobhan stayed true to Shania's vocals for most of the song — until the end, of course. For the grand finale,...
By Katie Byrne
Siobhan Magnus on "American Idol" Tuesday
Photo: Fox
Country Week is always a wild card on "American Idol," either forcing some creativity from contestants working out of their comfort zones or burying them alive. Since Siobhan Magnus is a bit of a wild card herself, she had no problem tackling Shania Twain Week and making it work for her big voice and oddball sensibility.
Magnus chose "Any Man of Mine," keeping a pretty traditional country arrangement but speeding it up a notch. Twain, who opened up her songbook for the week and acted as mentor, warned Magnus that the song is "all about attitude. You've got to put some attitude in those lyrics."
Siobhan stayed true to Shania's vocals for most of the song — until the end, of course. For the grand finale,...
- 4/27/2010
- MTV Music News
'I am feeling very positive that he will pull through like a champion,' Cyndi Lauper says after rocker's brain hemorrhage.
By Katie Byrne
Bret Michaels
Photo: George Napolitano/FilmMagic
Before Bret Michaels was admitted to the intensive care unit after suffering a major brain hemorrhage late Thursday, he was a leading contender on the new season of "Celebrity Apprentice." His co-stars on Donald Trump's reality competition reached out to the Poison frontman on Monday (April 26) hoping for the best during his medical emergency.
"I am hoping for a speedy recovery," fellow '80s musical superstar Cyndi Lauper said, according to E! Online. "He is a strong-willed person, so I am feeling very positive that he will pull through like a champion. My thoughts are with his family."
While Australian chef Curtis Stone had it out for Bret during a previous "Celebrity Apprentice" challenge that involved a country-star makeover,...
By Katie Byrne
Bret Michaels
Photo: George Napolitano/FilmMagic
Before Bret Michaels was admitted to the intensive care unit after suffering a major brain hemorrhage late Thursday, he was a leading contender on the new season of "Celebrity Apprentice." His co-stars on Donald Trump's reality competition reached out to the Poison frontman on Monday (April 26) hoping for the best during his medical emergency.
"I am hoping for a speedy recovery," fellow '80s musical superstar Cyndi Lauper said, according to E! Online. "He is a strong-willed person, so I am feeling very positive that he will pull through like a champion. My thoughts are with his family."
While Australian chef Curtis Stone had it out for Bret during a previous "Celebrity Apprentice" challenge that involved a country-star makeover,...
- 4/26/2010
- MTV Music News
Aziz Ansari, Jonah Hill and Jon Hamm also join Team Coco for the Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television Tour.
By Katie Byrne
Conan O'Brien onstage during his "Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Televison Tour"
Photo: Noel Vasquez/ Getty
Universal City, California . For seven short months, Conan O'Brien hosted "The Tonight Show" on the Universal Studios back lot. In a full-circle moment on Saturday night, the comedian brought his Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television Tour to Universal Studios' Gibson Amphitheatre, a mere 400 yards from his old stage.
"This is my first time back at Universal Studios since I lost my job," O'Brien announced to the sold-out crowd, causing the Conan-crazy fans to boo his former employer, NBC. "Don't boo too loudly. If you listen very carefully, you can hear bad ideas being green-lit."
Aside from occasional jabs at O'Brien's old network, the traveling variety show...
By Katie Byrne
Conan O'Brien onstage during his "Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Televison Tour"
Photo: Noel Vasquez/ Getty
Universal City, California . For seven short months, Conan O'Brien hosted "The Tonight Show" on the Universal Studios back lot. In a full-circle moment on Saturday night, the comedian brought his Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television Tour to Universal Studios' Gibson Amphitheatre, a mere 400 yards from his old stage.
"This is my first time back at Universal Studios since I lost my job," O'Brien announced to the sold-out crowd, causing the Conan-crazy fans to boo his former employer, NBC. "Don't boo too loudly. If you listen very carefully, you can hear bad ideas being green-lit."
Aside from occasional jabs at O'Brien's old network, the traveling variety show...
- 4/25/2010
- MTV Music News
'I don't perform for the people who don't like me; I perform for the people who want me to be onstage,' he says.
By Katie Byrne
Tim Urban performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Tim Urban might have lasted on "American Idol" longer than fans expected, but those extra weeks actually gave him a chance to redeem himself after being lambasted by the judges week after week.
But he reached a little too high with his cover of the Goo Goo Dolls' "Better Days" during "Idol Gives Back" week and was sent packing Wednesday night.
During a conference call with reporters after his elimination, he opened up about his good attitude through all the criticism, Vote for the Worst's support and that shirtless picture.
Q: Simon complimented you on your attitude in the competition, that you took everything positively. What did it mean to you...
By Katie Byrne
Tim Urban performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Tim Urban might have lasted on "American Idol" longer than fans expected, but those extra weeks actually gave him a chance to redeem himself after being lambasted by the judges week after week.
But he reached a little too high with his cover of the Goo Goo Dolls' "Better Days" during "Idol Gives Back" week and was sent packing Wednesday night.
During a conference call with reporters after his elimination, he opened up about his good attitude through all the criticism, Vote for the Worst's support and that shirtless picture.
Q: Simon complimented you on your attitude in the competition, that you took everything positively. What did it mean to you...
- 4/23/2010
- MTV Music News
'They all know what they're talking about, but ultimately, I need to do what I love,' she says of the judges.
By Katie Byrne
Katie Stevens on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
After some iffy performances in the "American Idol" semifinals, many fans questioned Katie Stevens making the top 12 over other female contestants like Lilly Scott and Katelyn Epperly. Well, the 17-year-old was out to prove those critics wrong in the finals with her powerful performances of the Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses" and the Beatles' "Let It Be."
But Simon Cowell lambasted Katie's take on Elvis' "Baby What You Want Me to Do" for being too loud and "annoying," and she was sent packing, along with Andrew Garcia, on Wednesday night.
We caught up with the high-schooler on Thursday (April 15) to find out what she thought of Kara and Simon's back-and-forth about what kind of artist she was and much more.
By Katie Byrne
Katie Stevens on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
After some iffy performances in the "American Idol" semifinals, many fans questioned Katie Stevens making the top 12 over other female contestants like Lilly Scott and Katelyn Epperly. Well, the 17-year-old was out to prove those critics wrong in the finals with her powerful performances of the Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses" and the Beatles' "Let It Be."
But Simon Cowell lambasted Katie's take on Elvis' "Baby What You Want Me to Do" for being too loud and "annoying," and she was sent packing, along with Andrew Garcia, on Wednesday night.
We caught up with the high-schooler on Thursday (April 15) to find out what she thought of Kara and Simon's back-and-forth about what kind of artist she was and much more.
- 4/15/2010
- MTV Music News
'Idol' castoff also insists he's not boring: 'If they hung out with me, they'll love me.'
By Katie Byrne
Andrew Garcia on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Andrew Garcia just couldn't get past his Hollywood Week performance of ... do we even need to remind you which song by a former "American Idol" judge he covered?
His uninspired performance of Elvis' "Hound Dog" was the last straw, and he was sent packing, along with Katie Stevens, during Wednesday's results show.
We caught up with the acoustic crooner on Thursday (April 15) to talk about his "Straight Up" albatross, his bromance with Lee Dewyze and much more.
Q: You had a lot of hype going into the semifinals after your take on Paula Abdul's "Straight Up." Do you think your early fans were disappointed with the direction you went once the live shows started?
A: I felt...
By Katie Byrne
Andrew Garcia on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Andrew Garcia just couldn't get past his Hollywood Week performance of ... do we even need to remind you which song by a former "American Idol" judge he covered?
His uninspired performance of Elvis' "Hound Dog" was the last straw, and he was sent packing, along with Katie Stevens, during Wednesday's results show.
We caught up with the acoustic crooner on Thursday (April 15) to talk about his "Straight Up" albatross, his bromance with Lee Dewyze and much more.
Q: You had a lot of hype going into the semifinals after your take on Paula Abdul's "Straight Up." Do you think your early fans were disappointed with the direction you went once the live shows started?
A: I felt...
- 4/15/2010
- MTV Music News
By Katie Byrne
Michael Lynche caught a big break this week when the "American Idol" judges used their second-ever save to keep him in the competition. This got us thinking about other reality-show second chances, including Speidi on "I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!" and Chris March from "Project Runway," but my personal favorite was left out. While Matt Giraud received the inaugural judges' save last year, he wasn't the first comeback kid on "Idol."
No, that title belongs to Nikko Smith, the season four R&B crooner who was voted off only to be invited back to the competition when Mario Vazquez made the brilliant decision to pursue bigger opportunities and opt out of "Idol." (How's that working out, Mario?) Smith was one of four contestants eliminated from the top 16, but he ended up squeezing four extra weeks out of the competition, making it to the top...
Michael Lynche caught a big break this week when the "American Idol" judges used their second-ever save to keep him in the competition. This got us thinking about other reality-show second chances, including Speidi on "I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!" and Chris March from "Project Runway," but my personal favorite was left out. While Matt Giraud received the inaugural judges' save last year, he wasn't the first comeback kid on "Idol."
No, that title belongs to Nikko Smith, the season four R&B crooner who was voted off only to be invited back to the competition when Mario Vazquez made the brilliant decision to pursue bigger opportunities and opt out of "Idol." (How's that working out, Mario?) Smith was one of four contestants eliminated from the top 16, but he ended up squeezing four extra weeks out of the competition, making it to the top...
- 4/8/2010
- by MTV News
- MTV Newsroom
'Honestly, I got further than I ever thought that I would,' latest castoff says.
By Katie Byrne
Didi Benami performs on "American idol" on Wednesday
Photo: Fox
It's been an emotional "American Idol" journey for Didi Benami.
When we met the 23-year-old waitress from Knoxville, Tennessee, she told the story of her late friend during a powerhouse audition. Her hot streak continued with an acoustic cover of the Kara DioGuardi-penned "Terrified" during Hollywood Week. But the judges were confused by Benami's all-over-the-map song choices during the live shows, and voters apparently lost interest, too, after her wobbly take on "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," sending the singer/songwriter packing Wednesday.
We caught up with Didi on Thursday (April 1) to talk about Ryan Seacrest's awkward questions, meeting superstar mentors and what's next.
Q: You were very emotional during your time on "Idol." Is that typical for you, or...
By Katie Byrne
Didi Benami performs on "American idol" on Wednesday
Photo: Fox
It's been an emotional "American Idol" journey for Didi Benami.
When we met the 23-year-old waitress from Knoxville, Tennessee, she told the story of her late friend during a powerhouse audition. Her hot streak continued with an acoustic cover of the Kara DioGuardi-penned "Terrified" during Hollywood Week. But the judges were confused by Benami's all-over-the-map song choices during the live shows, and voters apparently lost interest, too, after her wobbly take on "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," sending the singer/songwriter packing Wednesday.
We caught up with Didi on Thursday (April 1) to talk about Ryan Seacrest's awkward questions, meeting superstar mentors and what's next.
Q: You were very emotional during your time on "Idol." Is that typical for you, or...
- 4/1/2010
- MTV Music News
‘The best thing to do, really, is just do yourself,’ she says.
By Katie Byrne
Paige Miles
Photo: Fox
Most “American Idol” fans would agree that Paige Miles made it farther in the competition than anyone could have predicted. Not only was she virtually nonexistent on the show before being named to the top 24, she also got week after week of criticism from the judges for not living up to her potential. On top of that, she struggled with laryngitis over the past two weeks.
But, against all odds (sorry!), she soldiered through to the top 11, unfortunately just missing the cut for this summer’s Idols Live! Tour. Her version of the oft-covered “Against All Odds” by Phil Collins was lambasted by the judges, and voters agreed, sending her packing during Wednesday’s results show.
We caught up with the bubbly schoolteacher on Thursday (March 25) to talk about the judges...
By Katie Byrne
Paige Miles
Photo: Fox
Most “American Idol” fans would agree that Paige Miles made it farther in the competition than anyone could have predicted. Not only was she virtually nonexistent on the show before being named to the top 24, she also got week after week of criticism from the judges for not living up to her potential. On top of that, she struggled with laryngitis over the past two weeks.
But, against all odds (sorry!), she soldiered through to the top 11, unfortunately just missing the cut for this summer’s Idols Live! Tour. Her version of the oft-covered “Against All Odds” by Phil Collins was lambasted by the judges, and voters agreed, sending her packing during Wednesday’s results show.
We caught up with the bubbly schoolteacher on Thursday (March 25) to talk about the judges...
- 3/26/2010
- PopCultNews
'The best thing to do, really, is just do yourself,' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Paige Miles
Photo: Fox
Most "American Idol" fans would agree that Paige Miles made it farther in the competition than anyone could have predicted. Not only was she virtually nonexistent on the show before being named to the top 24, she also got week after week of criticism from the judges for not living up to her potential. On top of that, she struggled with laryngitis over the past two weeks.
But, against all odds (sorry!), she soldiered through to the top 11, unfortunately just missing the cut for this summer's Idols Live! Tour. Her version of the oft-covered "Against All Odds" by Phil Collins was lambasted by the judges, and voters agreed, sending her packing during Wednesday's results show.
We caught up with the bubbly schoolteacher on Thursday (March 25) to talk about the judges' save...
By Katie Byrne
Paige Miles
Photo: Fox
Most "American Idol" fans would agree that Paige Miles made it farther in the competition than anyone could have predicted. Not only was she virtually nonexistent on the show before being named to the top 24, she also got week after week of criticism from the judges for not living up to her potential. On top of that, she struggled with laryngitis over the past two weeks.
But, against all odds (sorry!), she soldiered through to the top 11, unfortunately just missing the cut for this summer's Idols Live! Tour. Her version of the oft-covered "Against All Odds" by Phil Collins was lambasted by the judges, and voters agreed, sending her packing during Wednesday's results show.
We caught up with the bubbly schoolteacher on Thursday (March 25) to talk about the judges' save...
- 3/25/2010
- MTV Music News
This week's mentor sings 'When I Look at You' while the new couple tackle 'Make a Wave.'
By Katie Byrne
Miley Cyrus on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
On Tuesday night, Miley Cyrus dished out advice to the "American Idol" contestants to maximize their performances. On Wednesday night (March 24), however, the Disney princess took the stage herself to sing "When I Look at You" from her upcoming movie "The Last Song."
Cyrus seemed to take her own advice by connecting with the audience and making eye contact during the dramatic performance. Dressed in a long, white-satin dress, she started out playing a grand piano engulfed in fog and singing in a hushed tone. The quiet beginning belied what was still to come.
Once Miley stood up from the piano bench and took center stage for the second verse, she started belting out the song. Fitting the song's power-ballad feel,...
By Katie Byrne
Miley Cyrus on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
On Tuesday night, Miley Cyrus dished out advice to the "American Idol" contestants to maximize their performances. On Wednesday night (March 24), however, the Disney princess took the stage herself to sing "When I Look at You" from her upcoming movie "The Last Song."
Cyrus seemed to take her own advice by connecting with the audience and making eye contact during the dramatic performance. Dressed in a long, white-satin dress, she started out playing a grand piano engulfed in fog and singing in a hushed tone. The quiet beginning belied what was still to come.
Once Miley stood up from the piano bench and took center stage for the second verse, she started belting out the song. Fitting the song's power-ballad feel,...
- 3/24/2010
- MTV Music News
Disney superstar has kind words (and words of warning) for the top 11.
By Katie Byrne
Miley Cyrus on "American Idol" Tuesday
Photo: Fox
While previous "American Idol" mentors have included Barry Manilow, Randy Travis and Diana Ross, the show took things a bit younger this week with Miley Cyrus coaching the top 11 contestants. The theme of the week was #1 hits, and, as Ryan Seacrest pointed out at the top of the show, "This pop princess may only be 17, but she has a lifetime of experience."
When Seacrest caught up with Cyrus in the audience, she admitted that she was worried about critiquing the singers because, "I'm a fan of theirs." But she didn't hold back, offering just as much praise as constructive criticism.
With Lee Dewyze, Miley took the season's lone rocker to task for his lack of charisma onstage. "Lee, I think, has an amazing voice," Cyrus said. "The...
By Katie Byrne
Miley Cyrus on "American Idol" Tuesday
Photo: Fox
While previous "American Idol" mentors have included Barry Manilow, Randy Travis and Diana Ross, the show took things a bit younger this week with Miley Cyrus coaching the top 11 contestants. The theme of the week was #1 hits, and, as Ryan Seacrest pointed out at the top of the show, "This pop princess may only be 17, but she has a lifetime of experience."
When Seacrest caught up with Cyrus in the audience, she admitted that she was worried about critiquing the singers because, "I'm a fan of theirs." But she didn't hold back, offering just as much praise as constructive criticism.
With Lee Dewyze, Miley took the season's lone rocker to task for his lack of charisma onstage. "Lee, I think, has an amazing voice," Cyrus said. "The...
- 3/23/2010
- MTV Music News
'Even though I'm a bubbly, happy person, not every song that I sing is gonna be uptempo,' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Lacey Brown
Photo: Fox
Lacey Brown had an "American Idol" Cinderella story. In season eight, she just missed the cut for the top 36 when the judges opted for another quirky singer, Megan Joy, instead. Well, this was her year. Not only did she get past Hollywood Week to the top 24, she even made it to the top 12 and the big stage.
Unfortunately, her performance of the Rolling Stones' "Ruby Tuesday" didn't cut it, and she was the first finalist to get the boot.
We caught up with the 24-year-old Texan on Thursday (March 18) to talk about why she decided to try out again this year, the judges' conflicting advice and what's next.
Q: The judges have been offering a lot of conflicting advice this season. Do you...
By Katie Byrne
Lacey Brown
Photo: Fox
Lacey Brown had an "American Idol" Cinderella story. In season eight, she just missed the cut for the top 36 when the judges opted for another quirky singer, Megan Joy, instead. Well, this was her year. Not only did she get past Hollywood Week to the top 24, she even made it to the top 12 and the big stage.
Unfortunately, her performance of the Rolling Stones' "Ruby Tuesday" didn't cut it, and she was the first finalist to get the boot.
We caught up with the 24-year-old Texan on Thursday (March 18) to talk about why she decided to try out again this year, the judges' conflicting advice and what's next.
Q: The judges have been offering a lot of conflicting advice this season. Do you...
- 3/18/2010
- MTV Music News
'I was going to be the first contestant to actually do a dance break,' he says.
By Katie Byrne
Todrick Hall performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Todrick Hall stumbled a bit during his first "American Idol" live performances, but he seemed to hit his stride with a bombastic version of Queen's "Somebody to Love" this week.
Unfortunately, the "Idol" viewers repaid him by sending him on his way Thursday night, along with Lilly Scott, Alex Lambert and Katelyn Epperly. We caught up with Hall on Friday (March 12) to talk about why he was eliminated, how he got sucked into the rumor mill and what's next.
Q: Were you surprised to be eliminated after your best live performance?
A: I feel like I should have done that a couple weeks earlier. The problem is, I'm an African-American male, as you call tell from watching me on TV.
By Katie Byrne
Todrick Hall performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Todrick Hall stumbled a bit during his first "American Idol" live performances, but he seemed to hit his stride with a bombastic version of Queen's "Somebody to Love" this week.
Unfortunately, the "Idol" viewers repaid him by sending him on his way Thursday night, along with Lilly Scott, Alex Lambert and Katelyn Epperly. We caught up with Hall on Friday (March 12) to talk about why he was eliminated, how he got sucked into the rumor mill and what's next.
Q: Were you surprised to be eliminated after your best live performance?
A: I feel like I should have done that a couple weeks earlier. The problem is, I'm an African-American male, as you call tell from watching me on TV.
- 3/12/2010
- MTV Music News
'A talent competition is not necessarily my thing,' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Katelyn Epperly performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Katelyn Epperly finally had a breakout "American Idol" performance last week with Coldplay's "The Scientist," even though the judges didn't see eye-to-eye on it. But the whole panel agreed that her take on Carole King's "I Feel the Earth Move" didn't live up to her potential.
Even so, Epperly wasn't expected to get the boot on Thursday, but such was the theme of the shocking results night, when Lilly Scott, Alex Lambert and Todrick Hall were also sent packing. We caught up with the singer/songwriter to talk about her closest "Idol" allies, her next move and more.
Q: Did you feel that the judges were especially hard on you this season?
A: They were definitely more critical towards me. I'm not sure if...
By Katie Byrne
Katelyn Epperly performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Katelyn Epperly finally had a breakout "American Idol" performance last week with Coldplay's "The Scientist," even though the judges didn't see eye-to-eye on it. But the whole panel agreed that her take on Carole King's "I Feel the Earth Move" didn't live up to her potential.
Even so, Epperly wasn't expected to get the boot on Thursday, but such was the theme of the shocking results night, when Lilly Scott, Alex Lambert and Todrick Hall were also sent packing. We caught up with the singer/songwriter to talk about her closest "Idol" allies, her next move and more.
Q: Did you feel that the judges were especially hard on you this season?
A: They were definitely more critical towards me. I'm not sure if...
- 3/12/2010
- MTV Music News
He also addresses Ellen's metaphors: 'I probably won't be able to look at a banana the same way.'
By Katie Byrne
Alex Lambert performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
While Alex Lambert's nerves got the best of him during his early "American Idol" performances, the singer seemed to be getting on the right track, choosing perfect-fit songs by Ray Lamontagne and John Legend.
Unfortunately, Lambert fell victim to Thursday's shocking results night and didn't quite make the top 12, along with fellow castoffs Lilly Scott, Katelyn Epperly and Todrick Hall. We caught up with him Friday (March 12) to talk about his surprise elimination, what's next and much more.
Q: After you were eliminated, you said that you had more to show America. What did you mean by that?
A: When I said I want to break out of my shell and show America what I can do,...
By Katie Byrne
Alex Lambert performs on "American Idol"
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
While Alex Lambert's nerves got the best of him during his early "American Idol" performances, the singer seemed to be getting on the right track, choosing perfect-fit songs by Ray Lamontagne and John Legend.
Unfortunately, Lambert fell victim to Thursday's shocking results night and didn't quite make the top 12, along with fellow castoffs Lilly Scott, Katelyn Epperly and Todrick Hall. We caught up with him Friday (March 12) to talk about his surprise elimination, what's next and much more.
Q: After you were eliminated, you said that you had more to show America. What did you mean by that?
A: When I said I want to break out of my shell and show America what I can do,...
- 3/12/2010
- MTV Music News
'I feel that I still did give my own style to it, but I maybe should have chosen a different song,' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Michelle Delamor
Photo: Fox
While she didn't get a lot of screen time before the semifinals, Michelle Delamor established herself as season nine's resident diva with her first live "American Idol" performance of Alicia Keys' "Fallin'."
Unfortunately, she made an oddball song choice (an R&B version of Creed's "With Arms Wide Open"?) that sent her packing Thursday, along with Jermaine Sellers, John Park and Haeley Vaughn.
Does she think lack of screen time did her in? We caught up with the 22-year-old from Miami on Friday (March 5) to talk about that and much more.
Q: On Wednesday, Kara said "With Arms Wide Open" was your best performance yet. Then during the results show, she took that comment back. Was that difficult?...
By Katie Byrne
Michelle Delamor
Photo: Fox
While she didn't get a lot of screen time before the semifinals, Michelle Delamor established herself as season nine's resident diva with her first live "American Idol" performance of Alicia Keys' "Fallin'."
Unfortunately, she made an oddball song choice (an R&B version of Creed's "With Arms Wide Open"?) that sent her packing Thursday, along with Jermaine Sellers, John Park and Haeley Vaughn.
Does she think lack of screen time did her in? We caught up with the 22-year-old from Miami on Friday (March 5) to talk about that and much more.
Q: On Wednesday, Kara said "With Arms Wide Open" was your best performance yet. Then during the results show, she took that comment back. Was that difficult?...
- 3/5/2010
- MTV Music News
'I definitely got distracted by the cameras and the fact that the judges were going to criticize me in front of 30 million people on live TV,' he says.
By Katie Byrne
John Park
Photo: Fox
His "American Idol" journey might have come to an end Thursday, but John Park will always have Shania Twain.
The guest judge made Park's audition one of the most memorable of the season, with her borderline-inappropriate comments about his "bottom end." The Northbrook, Illinois, college student never quite lived up to his initial promise, however, and he was sent packing, along with Jermaine Sellers, Haeley Vaughn and Michelle Delamor.
We caught up with the 21-year-old Friday (March 5) to talk about the judges' harsh comments, his early front-runner status and what's next.
Q: After your performance this week, Simon made a comment about your college a cappella group getting their lead singer back. What were...
By Katie Byrne
John Park
Photo: Fox
His "American Idol" journey might have come to an end Thursday, but John Park will always have Shania Twain.
The guest judge made Park's audition one of the most memorable of the season, with her borderline-inappropriate comments about his "bottom end." The Northbrook, Illinois, college student never quite lived up to his initial promise, however, and he was sent packing, along with Jermaine Sellers, Haeley Vaughn and Michelle Delamor.
We caught up with the 21-year-old Friday (March 5) to talk about the judges' harsh comments, his early front-runner status and what's next.
Q: After your performance this week, Simon made a comment about your college a cappella group getting their lead singer back. What were...
- 3/5/2010
- MTV Music News
'I'm a really big fan of Disney and Disney Channel, so hopefully there's something there that I can work on,' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Haeley Vaughn
Photo: Fox
Haeley Vaughn's smile was infectious, but her uneven singing left the "American Idol" judges (and fans) frustrated.
After her shaky performance of Miley Cyrus' "The Climb," Vaughn was eliminated Thursday, along with Jermaine Sellers, John Park and Michelle Delamor. Will the 16-year-old's country/pop dreams still come true? We talked to the high-schooler from Fort Collins, Colorado, on Friday (March 5) to talk about that and more.
Q: What did you think when Kara suggested you take a year to strengthen your vocal skills?
A: I kind of agreed with her. I think that more experience and more time working on my vocals would be good. I think experience is always better, especially since I'm only 16 and this is...
By Katie Byrne
Haeley Vaughn
Photo: Fox
Haeley Vaughn's smile was infectious, but her uneven singing left the "American Idol" judges (and fans) frustrated.
After her shaky performance of Miley Cyrus' "The Climb," Vaughn was eliminated Thursday, along with Jermaine Sellers, John Park and Michelle Delamor. Will the 16-year-old's country/pop dreams still come true? We talked to the high-schooler from Fort Collins, Colorado, on Friday (March 5) to talk about that and more.
Q: What did you think when Kara suggested you take a year to strengthen your vocal skills?
A: I kind of agreed with her. I think that more experience and more time working on my vocals would be good. I think experience is always better, especially since I'm only 16 and this is...
- 3/5/2010
- MTV Music News
'Sometimes, the camera can make you look more arrogant,' castoff says of his comments to the judges.
By Katie Byrne
Jermaine Sellers
Photo: Fox
Jermaine Sellers got some pretty harsh feedback from the "American Idol" judges for his semifinal performances, but said he was convinced that his faith would carry him through the negativity.
His dream came to an end, however, on Thursday, when he was voted out of the competition, along with John Park, Haeley Vaughn and Michelle Delamor. "In God, there's no failure," the 27-year-old said after his elimination.
So what's next for the Joliet, Illinois, church singer? We caught up with him Friday (March 5) to discuss that and much more.
Q: You were very outspoken about your faith on the show. Do you think your post-singing comments had anything to do with your elimination?
A: Though I hate to say it, yeah, I do. Because sometimes,...
By Katie Byrne
Jermaine Sellers
Photo: Fox
Jermaine Sellers got some pretty harsh feedback from the "American Idol" judges for his semifinal performances, but said he was convinced that his faith would carry him through the negativity.
His dream came to an end, however, on Thursday, when he was voted out of the competition, along with John Park, Haeley Vaughn and Michelle Delamor. "In God, there's no failure," the 27-year-old said after his elimination.
So what's next for the Joliet, Illinois, church singer? We caught up with him Friday (March 5) to discuss that and much more.
Q: You were very outspoken about your faith on the show. Do you think your post-singing comments had anything to do with your elimination?
A: Though I hate to say it, yeah, I do. Because sometimes,...
- 3/5/2010
- MTV Music News
'Other people didn't get screen time at all, and they got through,' he says.
By Katie Byrne
Jose Munoz performs on Wednesday's "American Idol"
Photo: Michael Becker/ Fox
Joe Muñoz had a lot of ground to make up on "American Idol," having only been shown once toward the end of Hollywood Week before this week's live debut.
Unfortunately, his good-but-not-great take on Jason Mraz's "You and I Both" didn't do the trick, and he was eliminated Thursday along with Tyler Grady, Janell Wheeler and Ashley Rodriguez. We caught up with the soft-spoken singer to talk about what went wrong and what's next.
Q: We didn't hear anything from you until the very end of Hollywood Week. Do you that lack of screen time was your downfall?
A: I don't think so, because other people didn't get screen time at all, and they got through. I try not to think about it that much.
By Katie Byrne
Jose Munoz performs on Wednesday's "American Idol"
Photo: Michael Becker/ Fox
Joe Muñoz had a lot of ground to make up on "American Idol," having only been shown once toward the end of Hollywood Week before this week's live debut.
Unfortunately, his good-but-not-great take on Jason Mraz's "You and I Both" didn't do the trick, and he was eliminated Thursday along with Tyler Grady, Janell Wheeler and Ashley Rodriguez. We caught up with the soft-spoken singer to talk about what went wrong and what's next.
Q: We didn't hear anything from you until the very end of Hollywood Week. Do you that lack of screen time was your downfall?
A: I don't think so, because other people didn't get screen time at all, and they got through. I try not to think about it that much.
- 2/26/2010
- MTV Music News
'I definitely heard a lot of us having pitch problems,' she says of rocky first week.
By Katie Byrne
Janell Wheeler on Wednesday's "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
Janell Wheeler had a standout moment during Hollywood Week when she sang a stripped-down version of Estelle's "American Boy" and played her acoustic guitar.
Unfortunately, she left the guitar at home for her performance of Heart's "What About Love," getting the boot Thursday night along with Tyler Grady, Ashley Rodriguez and Joe Muñoz. We caught up with the bubbly blonde on Friday (February 26) to talk about nerves running rampant and what's next.
Q: The judges seem to be giving a lot of mixed messages this season. Was it hard to figure out what they wanted?
A: I think I knew exactly what they wanted from me. I just was choosing to do it the second week. [Laughs.] The first rehearsal with me and...
By Katie Byrne
Janell Wheeler on Wednesday's "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
Janell Wheeler had a standout moment during Hollywood Week when she sang a stripped-down version of Estelle's "American Boy" and played her acoustic guitar.
Unfortunately, she left the guitar at home for her performance of Heart's "What About Love," getting the boot Thursday night along with Tyler Grady, Ashley Rodriguez and Joe Muñoz. We caught up with the bubbly blonde on Friday (February 26) to talk about nerves running rampant and what's next.
Q: The judges seem to be giving a lot of mixed messages this season. Was it hard to figure out what they wanted?
A: I think I knew exactly what they wanted from me. I just was choosing to do it the second week. [Laughs.] The first rehearsal with me and...
- 2/26/2010
- MTV Music News
'A lot of people thought they would be a little lenient, considering it was our first live show,' eliminated contestant says.
By Katie Byrne
Ashley Rodriguez and Didi Benami on "American Idol"
Photo: Micelotta/ Getty Images
Before the live "American Idol" episodes kicked off this week, Ashley Rodriguez was shaping up to be the season-nine diva. She tackled songs by Alicia Keys, Beyoncé and Jordin Sparks during her audition and Hollywood Week, and pulled them off with flying colors.
Her cover of Leona Lewis' "Happy" wasn't quite as successful, and the 22-year-old Berklee College of Music student got the boot Thursday night, along with Tyler Grady, Janell Wheeler and Joe Muñoz.
So what's next for Ashley? We caught up with her to talk about that and her experience on "Idol."
Q: It was a pretty tough week on "American Idol." Were you surprised by the judges' primarily negative feedback?...
By Katie Byrne
Ashley Rodriguez and Didi Benami on "American Idol"
Photo: Micelotta/ Getty Images
Before the live "American Idol" episodes kicked off this week, Ashley Rodriguez was shaping up to be the season-nine diva. She tackled songs by Alicia Keys, Beyoncé and Jordin Sparks during her audition and Hollywood Week, and pulled them off with flying colors.
Her cover of Leona Lewis' "Happy" wasn't quite as successful, and the 22-year-old Berklee College of Music student got the boot Thursday night, along with Tyler Grady, Janell Wheeler and Joe Muñoz.
So what's next for Ashley? We caught up with her to talk about that and her experience on "Idol."
Q: It was a pretty tough week on "American Idol." Were you surprised by the judges' primarily negative feedback?...
- 2/26/2010
- MTV Music News
But booted contestant wasn't planning to change for them either: 'I probably would've just stuck to my guns.'
By Katie Byrne
Tyler Grady on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
While Tyler Grady made a lasting impression with his retro "American Idol" audition in Boston, he virtually went missing from the stage during Hollywood Week.
That disappearing act might have marked the end for the 20-year-old from Nazareth, Pennsylvania — who was kicked off "Idol" on Thursday along with Ashley Rodriguez, Janell Wheeler and Joe Muñoz. Before he reprised his performance of the Guess Who's "American Woman," he had some choice words for the judges: "I like all the judges, and I've really had a great time with them, but I feel like I didn't really get much constructive criticism during Hollywood Week, and what they told me was a little too late."
When we caught up with him Friday (February...
By Katie Byrne
Tyler Grady on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
While Tyler Grady made a lasting impression with his retro "American Idol" audition in Boston, he virtually went missing from the stage during Hollywood Week.
That disappearing act might have marked the end for the 20-year-old from Nazareth, Pennsylvania — who was kicked off "Idol" on Thursday along with Ashley Rodriguez, Janell Wheeler and Joe Muñoz. Before he reprised his performance of the Guess Who's "American Woman," he had some choice words for the judges: "I like all the judges, and I've really had a great time with them, but I feel like I didn't really get much constructive criticism during Hollywood Week, and what they told me was a little too late."
When we caught up with him Friday (February...
- 2/26/2010
- MTV Music News
'My deepest sympathies to Andrew Koenig's family,' tweeted William Shatner, who co-starred with the 'Growing Pains' actor's dad on 'Star Trek.'
By Katie Byrne
Andrew Koenig
Photo: Zuma Red West Photos
After more than a week of pleas from his family and friends and exhaustive police searches, "Growing Pains" actor Andrew Koenig was found dead Thursday (February 25) in a Vancouver park. The 41-year-old suffered from depression, and a police spokeswoman confirmed at a news conference that all signs pointed to suicide.
Famous friends of the actor, who most notably played Richard "Boner" Stabone on the '80s sitcom "Growing Pains," responded to the tragic news online.
"Rip Andrew Koenig, missing since Valentine's Day, was found dead in Vancouver, Canada," fellow '80s child star Alyssa Milano tweeted. She also urged her followers to help anyone they know with similar issues to Koenig's: "If you know someone suffering from depression,...
By Katie Byrne
Andrew Koenig
Photo: Zuma Red West Photos
After more than a week of pleas from his family and friends and exhaustive police searches, "Growing Pains" actor Andrew Koenig was found dead Thursday (February 25) in a Vancouver park. The 41-year-old suffered from depression, and a police spokeswoman confirmed at a news conference that all signs pointed to suicide.
Famous friends of the actor, who most notably played Richard "Boner" Stabone on the '80s sitcom "Growing Pains," responded to the tragic news online.
"Rip Andrew Koenig, missing since Valentine's Day, was found dead in Vancouver, Canada," fellow '80s child star Alyssa Milano tweeted. She also urged her followers to help anyone they know with similar issues to Koenig's: "If you know someone suffering from depression,...
- 2/25/2010
- MTV Music News
The tune, which will debut during Thursday's results show, is by 'Pop Idol' winner Will Young.
By Katie Byrne
Will Young
Photo: Mike Marsland/WireImage
"American Idol" is offering up some tough love to eliminated contestants this year with the new farewell song "Leave Right Now." The tune is from Will Young, who was the inaugural winner of "Pop Idol," the British show that inspired "American Idol."
The song will debut Thursday (February 25) on "Idol," when the first four top 24 contestants get the boot. Aside from the results, the show will also feature performances from Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta and footage from Allen's recent trip to earthquake-ravaged Haiti.
While the "Leave Right Now" title sounds pretty harsh (don't let the door hit ya!), the chorus isn't quite so severe, with the lyrics "I think I better leave right now/ Before I fall any deeper/ I think I...
By Katie Byrne
Will Young
Photo: Mike Marsland/WireImage
"American Idol" is offering up some tough love to eliminated contestants this year with the new farewell song "Leave Right Now." The tune is from Will Young, who was the inaugural winner of "Pop Idol," the British show that inspired "American Idol."
The song will debut Thursday (February 25) on "Idol," when the first four top 24 contestants get the boot. Aside from the results, the show will also feature performances from Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta and footage from Allen's recent trip to earthquake-ravaged Haiti.
While the "Leave Right Now" title sounds pretty harsh (don't let the door hit ya!), the chorus isn't quite so severe, with the lyrics "I think I better leave right now/ Before I fall any deeper/ I think I...
- 2/25/2010
- MTV Music News
'He needed this opportunity,' judge says of the disqualified contestant.
By Katie Byrne
Simon Cowell
Photo: Gustavo Caballero/ Getty Images
"American Idol" fans remember Chris Golightly's initial audition fondly, thanks to his volatile upbringing and silky-smooth vocals. Simon Cowell also recalls that tryout — but not for the same reasons.
"I remember Chris' first audition very well, because Kara was completely and utterly besotted with him," the outgoing "Idol" judge laughed while talking to reporters Thursday (February 18). "I wasn't quite so keen on him. And then the second and third time we saw him in Hollywood Week, he wasn't as strong as he was on his first audition."
We all know by now that the judges were keen enough on Golightly to send him through to the top 24 this season, only to be replaced by Tim Urban in the 11th hour. A contract misunderstanding is at the center of his dismissal,...
By Katie Byrne
Simon Cowell
Photo: Gustavo Caballero/ Getty Images
"American Idol" fans remember Chris Golightly's initial audition fondly, thanks to his volatile upbringing and silky-smooth vocals. Simon Cowell also recalls that tryout — but not for the same reasons.
"I remember Chris' first audition very well, because Kara was completely and utterly besotted with him," the outgoing "Idol" judge laughed while talking to reporters Thursday (February 18). "I wasn't quite so keen on him. And then the second and third time we saw him in Hollywood Week, he wasn't as strong as he was on his first audition."
We all know by now that the judges were keen enough on Golightly to send him through to the top 24 this season, only to be replaced by Tim Urban in the 11th hour. A contract misunderstanding is at the center of his dismissal,...
- 2/18/2010
- MTV Music News
Andrew Garcia, Katie Stevens, Janell Wheeler, John Park and other early front-runners make the cut.
By Katie Byrne
Janell Wheeler on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
In an "American Idol" first, seven contenders for the season-nine top 24 were revealed during Tuesday's show. On Wednesday (February 17), the 17 remaining semifinalists were unveiled. Now, you can reacquaint yourself with those singers before next week's live shows kick off:
Andrew Garcia
While Garcia's story about his parents' gangbanger past and trying to make a better life for his kid earned him some audition-round screen time, his Hollywood Week performances are what set him apart from the pack. His acoustic reworkings of female-fronted songs — Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" and Adele's "Chasing Pavements" — earned him a ride to the top 24.
Katie Stevens
The precocious 16-year-old caught our attention with her old-soul vocal chops and compelling backstory. She backed up the positive first impression with Stevie Wonder...
By Katie Byrne
Janell Wheeler on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
In an "American Idol" first, seven contenders for the season-nine top 24 were revealed during Tuesday's show. On Wednesday (February 17), the 17 remaining semifinalists were unveiled. Now, you can reacquaint yourself with those singers before next week's live shows kick off:
Andrew Garcia
While Garcia's story about his parents' gangbanger past and trying to make a better life for his kid earned him some audition-round screen time, his Hollywood Week performances are what set him apart from the pack. His acoustic reworkings of female-fronted songs — Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" and Adele's "Chasing Pavements" — earned him a ride to the top 24.
Katie Stevens
The precocious 16-year-old caught our attention with her old-soul vocal chops and compelling backstory. She backed up the positive first impression with Stevie Wonder...
- 2/17/2010
- MTV Music News
Last year's winner will appear on the show next week to share footage of his trip and perform.
By Katie Byrne
Kris Allen
Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Kris Allen will appear on "American Idol" next week to help raise money for Haiti, it was announced Wednesday (February 17). Last year's "Idol" winner has partnered with the United Nations Foundation to take a trip to the earthquake-ravaged country, and he will share footage from his visit and perform on the February 25 results show.
Allen will head to Haiti on February 19 to meet with U.N. staff and Haitian people to find out what the country will need to recover in the coming months. Fox told The Associated Press that viewers will be asked to make donations online or by text-messaging during the "Idol" episode, with the money going to the Idol Gives Back Foundation to help support the U.N. Foundation's work in Haiti.
By Katie Byrne
Kris Allen
Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Kris Allen will appear on "American Idol" next week to help raise money for Haiti, it was announced Wednesday (February 17). Last year's "Idol" winner has partnered with the United Nations Foundation to take a trip to the earthquake-ravaged country, and he will share footage from his visit and perform on the February 25 results show.
Allen will head to Haiti on February 19 to meet with U.N. staff and Haitian people to find out what the country will need to recover in the coming months. Fox told The Associated Press that viewers will be asked to make donations online or by text-messaging during the "Idol" episode, with the money going to the Idol Gives Back Foundation to help support the U.N. Foundation's work in Haiti.
- 2/17/2010
- MTV Music News
'They actually know how to critique,' he says of Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry, Avril Lavigne and other celeb judges.
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images
Back in August, long before Simon Cowell's departure was the big story surrounding the "American Idol" judges' panel, Paula Abdul announced her exit from the show. The move left producers scrambling to fill her seat for the soon-to-tape auditions, and they rounded up an impressive roster of guest judges for the job.
With season nine set to start Tuesday night (January 12), we'll get our first glimpse of the celeb judges in action, with Victoria Beckham kicking things off at the Boston tryouts. Randy Jackson was impressed with Posh Spice, even giving her a new moniker.
"I gave her the nickname 'Lady V,' " he laughed. "So hopefully she goes out into the world and uses that. ... People...
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images
Back in August, long before Simon Cowell's departure was the big story surrounding the "American Idol" judges' panel, Paula Abdul announced her exit from the show. The move left producers scrambling to fill her seat for the soon-to-tape auditions, and they rounded up an impressive roster of guest judges for the job.
With season nine set to start Tuesday night (January 12), we'll get our first glimpse of the celeb judges in action, with Victoria Beckham kicking things off at the Boston tryouts. Randy Jackson was impressed with Posh Spice, even giving her a new moniker.
"I gave her the nickname 'Lady V,' " he laughed. "So hopefully she goes out into the world and uses that. ... People...
- 1/12/2010
- MTV Music News
'I hope things don't get worse for the show after he leaves,' one MTV News commenter writes.
By Katie Byrne
Simon Cowell
Photo: Getty Images/ Michael Buckner
It's hard to imagine "American Idol" without Simon Cowell. He's been there from the beginning as a judge and helped mastermind the show's massive success, but avid viewers have to face the facts: After the season-nine finale in May, Cowell will be jumping ship for his other reality competition, "The X Factor."
New judge Ellen DeGeneres is calling the news "very, very sad," and "Idol" experts are saying Cowell's exit could help the show. But what are fans saying? We hit the MTV News comments to see how viewers are taking the news.
Many are ready to jump ship right along with Cowell. "Bye-bye, 'American Idol' — hello, 'X Factor'!!!!!" GinaNYC wrote. "Where Simon goes, we go. Full stop."
"What! Without Simon,...
By Katie Byrne
Simon Cowell
Photo: Getty Images/ Michael Buckner
It's hard to imagine "American Idol" without Simon Cowell. He's been there from the beginning as a judge and helped mastermind the show's massive success, but avid viewers have to face the facts: After the season-nine finale in May, Cowell will be jumping ship for his other reality competition, "The X Factor."
New judge Ellen DeGeneres is calling the news "very, very sad," and "Idol" experts are saying Cowell's exit could help the show. But what are fans saying? We hit the MTV News comments to see how viewers are taking the news.
Many are ready to jump ship right along with Cowell. "Bye-bye, 'American Idol' — hello, 'X Factor'!!!!!" GinaNYC wrote. "Where Simon goes, we go. Full stop."
"What! Without Simon,...
- 1/11/2010
- MTV Music News
'But I think they're both equally talented,' judge says of season-eight 'American Idol' finalists.
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Paul Morigi/ WireImage
While "American Idol" has been the launching pad for a lot of singers, it's what contestants do after the season ends that separates the Kelly Clarksons from the Kevin Covaises.
With the ninth season starting Tuesday at 8 p.m., last year's contestants are officially out of the "Idol" nest and exploring their new careers. What does judge Randy Jackson think of their progress so far? He's optimistic — but he's worried runner-up Adam Lambert might have tried to tackle too much, too soon.
"Adam is a giant personality," Jackson said Friday. "He's unbelievably talented. The Ama thing, I guess, was something he wanted to do and try. An artist is really left up to their own ideas of how they want to do things."
Kris Allen,...
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Paul Morigi/ WireImage
While "American Idol" has been the launching pad for a lot of singers, it's what contestants do after the season ends that separates the Kelly Clarksons from the Kevin Covaises.
With the ninth season starting Tuesday at 8 p.m., last year's contestants are officially out of the "Idol" nest and exploring their new careers. What does judge Randy Jackson think of their progress so far? He's optimistic — but he's worried runner-up Adam Lambert might have tried to tackle too much, too soon.
"Adam is a giant personality," Jackson said Friday. "He's unbelievably talented. The Ama thing, I guess, was something he wanted to do and try. An artist is really left up to their own ideas of how they want to do things."
Kris Allen,...
- 1/11/2010
- MTV Music News
'But I think they're both equally talented,' judge says of season-eight 'American Idol' finalists.
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Paul Morigi/ WireImage
While "American Idol" has been the launching pad for a lot of singers, it's what contestants do after the season ends that separates the Kelly Clarksons from the Kevin Covaises.
With the ninth season starting Tuesday at 8 p.m., last year's contestants are officially out of the "Idol" nest and exploring their new careers. What does judge Randy Jackson think of their progress so far? He's optimistic — but he's worried runner-up Adam Lambert might have tried to tackle too much, too soon.
"Adam is a giant personality," Jackson said Friday. "He's unbelievably talented. The Ama thing, I guess, was something he wanted to do and try. An artist is really left up to their own ideas of how they want to do things."
Kris Allen,...
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Paul Morigi/ WireImage
While "American Idol" has been the launching pad for a lot of singers, it's what contestants do after the season ends that separates the Kelly Clarksons from the Kevin Covaises.
With the ninth season starting Tuesday at 8 p.m., last year's contestants are officially out of the "Idol" nest and exploring their new careers. What does judge Randy Jackson think of their progress so far? He's optimistic — but he's worried runner-up Adam Lambert might have tried to tackle too much, too soon.
"Adam is a giant personality," Jackson said Friday. "He's unbelievably talented. The Ama thing, I guess, was something he wanted to do and try. An artist is really left up to their own ideas of how they want to do things."
Kris Allen,...
- 1/11/2010
- MTV Music News
'Until I really hear it from him, I'm not going to believe any rumors,' he says.
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Arnold Turner/WireImage
What would "American Idol" be like without Simon Cowell?
Well, viewers might find out far sooner than they'd like, with Cowell's brother Tony saying last month that Simon will leave "Idol" after this season to focus on the U.S. version of "The X Factor." New judge Ellen DeGeneres, for her part, resisted the move, telling Entertainment Weekly, "If Simon goes, I go! I will not be there without Simon."
Original judge Randy Jackson, however, isn't making any promises until he is positive Cowell is on his way out the door.
"Until I really hear it from him, I'm not going to believe any rumors or believe anything," Jackson said when we caught up with him Friday. "There's so many rumors and speculation about everything going on.
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Arnold Turner/WireImage
What would "American Idol" be like without Simon Cowell?
Well, viewers might find out far sooner than they'd like, with Cowell's brother Tony saying last month that Simon will leave "Idol" after this season to focus on the U.S. version of "The X Factor." New judge Ellen DeGeneres, for her part, resisted the move, telling Entertainment Weekly, "If Simon goes, I go! I will not be there without Simon."
Original judge Randy Jackson, however, isn't making any promises until he is positive Cowell is on his way out the door.
"Until I really hear it from him, I'm not going to believe any rumors or believe anything," Jackson said when we caught up with him Friday. "There's so many rumors and speculation about everything going on.
- 1/11/2010
- MTV Music News
'American Idol' judge says Paula-free panel is 'gonna take a little getting used to.'
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Since Paula Abdul left "American Idol" back in August, fans have been speculating what her next move might be. Some are still clinging to the idea that she'll make a triumphant return to "Idol" (highly unlikely, since the ninth season kicks off next week), while others are hoping rumors about a job on Simon Cowell's U.S. version of "X Factor" are true.
What does Randy Jackson want for his former colleague? Well, he doesn't know where Abdul will end up, but he's pretty confident she'll land on her feet.
"I know that she's gonna be back in something in a huge way, because she's mad talented," he said when asked Friday (January 8) about the "X Factor" reports. "The...
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
Since Paula Abdul left "American Idol" back in August, fans have been speculating what her next move might be. Some are still clinging to the idea that she'll make a triumphant return to "Idol" (highly unlikely, since the ninth season kicks off next week), while others are hoping rumors about a job on Simon Cowell's U.S. version of "X Factor" are true.
What does Randy Jackson want for his former colleague? Well, he doesn't know where Abdul will end up, but he's pretty confident she'll land on her feet.
"I know that she's gonna be back in something in a huge way, because she's mad talented," he said when asked Friday (January 8) about the "X Factor" reports. "The...
- 1/8/2010
- MTV Music News
'She will give the at-home viewer a real voice to be on the judges' panel,' Jackson says of newest judge.
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images
"American Idol" fans barely had time to process Paula Abdul's shocking exit from the show back in August before another surprise came their way: Ellen DeGeneres would be taking her seat on the judges' panel. Viewers had a lot of questions about the move, not the least of which was what qualified the comedian and talk-show host to judge a singing competition.
We caught up with original judge Randy Jackson to see what he thinks of his new colleague, and he insisted that Ellen is the right woman for the job.
"I think her being just a die-hard music fan and loving music [makes her qualified to judge]. And just being a really smart, talented person herself — because she's a performer and entertainer as well,...
By Katie Byrne
Randy Jackson
Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images
"American Idol" fans barely had time to process Paula Abdul's shocking exit from the show back in August before another surprise came their way: Ellen DeGeneres would be taking her seat on the judges' panel. Viewers had a lot of questions about the move, not the least of which was what qualified the comedian and talk-show host to judge a singing competition.
We caught up with original judge Randy Jackson to see what he thinks of his new colleague, and he insisted that Ellen is the right woman for the job.
"I think her being just a die-hard music fan and loving music [makes her qualified to judge]. And just being a really smart, talented person herself — because she's a performer and entertainer as well,...
- 1/8/2010
- MTV Music News
While Baldwin is a rookie, Martin hosted the awards show in 2001 and 2003.
By April Richardson and Katie Byrne
Alec Baldwin at the 2004 Oscars
Photo: Getty Images
The Academy Awards will welcome a hosting tag-team in 2010 in the form of funnyman Steve Martin and "30 Rock" star Alec Baldwin, the awards show's producers announced Tuesday (November 3).
"I am happy to co-host the Oscars with my enemy Alec Baldwin," Martin, 64, quipped.
"We think the team of Steve and Alec are the perfect pair of hosts for the Oscars," show producers Adam Shankman and Bill Mechanic said in a statement. "Steve will bring the experience of having hosted the show in the past and Alec will be a completely fresh personality for this event."
Steve Martin And Alec Baldwin At The Oscars
As for whether we should expect the duo to participate in musical numbers during the broadcast, Baldwin poked fun at Martin's side...
By April Richardson and Katie Byrne
Alec Baldwin at the 2004 Oscars
Photo: Getty Images
The Academy Awards will welcome a hosting tag-team in 2010 in the form of funnyman Steve Martin and "30 Rock" star Alec Baldwin, the awards show's producers announced Tuesday (November 3).
"I am happy to co-host the Oscars with my enemy Alec Baldwin," Martin, 64, quipped.
"We think the team of Steve and Alec are the perfect pair of hosts for the Oscars," show producers Adam Shankman and Bill Mechanic said in a statement. "Steve will bring the experience of having hosted the show in the past and Alec will be a completely fresh personality for this event."
Steve Martin And Alec Baldwin At The Oscars
As for whether we should expect the duo to participate in musical numbers during the broadcast, Baldwin poked fun at Martin's side...
- 11/3/2009
- MTV Movie News
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