Anoop Desai has been something of an American Idol survivor this season. He needed the 13th finalist twist to get into the finals, then made it through several close scrapes with the bottom. This week, though, it was his turn to say goodbye. Earlier today, Desai hopped on the phone with reporters to reflect on his Idol experience, his next steps, and the North Carolina food he's craving most. Read more

After one final twist on American Idol on Thursday, the show has set its top 13 for the year. Last week, I got to chat with Allison Iraheta, Adam Lambert, and Kris Allen about their experiences making it through the semifinals, and this week, the final seven contestants into the final group — Lil Rounds, Scott MacIntyre, and Jorge Nunez from Wednesday and Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey, Matt Read more

The other night, during Season Eight auditions on American Idol, Simon Cowell — who never has difficulty conjuring up an opinion — took aim at contestant Anoop Desai. Although he got four thumbs up on his vocals, Cowell was unimpressed with his attire, "It looks like you just came out of a meeting with Bill Gates or something," he said. I loved the tech talking! Check it out below! Get Read more