(Spoiler alert: Please do not read if you haven’t watched Tuesday’s episode of “American Idol”)
The contestants on “American Idol” are just one episode short of fulfilling their dreams — or having their hopes shattered.
But first, another aspiring star was given sad news on Tuesday when Jax Cole was eliminated, meaning that Clark Beckham, 22, and Nick Fradiani, 29, will be competing in the finale for the second to last season.
Fox revealed Monday morning that “Idol” would be returning for one last gasp next year, concluding its run with a 15th season. On a conference call with reporters, Fox TV Group co-chairman and CEO Gary Newman said making the call was a tough one. “It was not an easy decision,” he said, calling “Idol” a “vital part” of Fox’s success in the new millennium.
However, as soon as host Ryan Seacrest delivered his own bad news to Jax, it was back to business on Tuesday as Beckham blasted out Ray Charles’ “Georgia on My Mind” and Fradiani sang Matchbox 20’s “Bright Lights.”
Next up, creator Simon Fuller had them sing Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine” and Jason Mraz’s “I Won’t Give Up,” respectively.
Of course, the songs all the fans are curious to hear are the singles the contestants will record if they are crowned the winner. Beckham opted for a song called “Champion,” while Fradiani’s is titled “Beautiful Life,” both of which are fun radio fodder typical of “American Idol” victors.
Whoever wins will be crowned the 14th “American Idol” and the second-to-last winner during Wednesday’s finale episode.
The “American Idol” finale airs Wednesday, May 13 at 8 p.m. ET on Fox.