Don’t feel bad for Idol’s four ousted singers

The format was the “Idol” version of musical chairs. One side of the stage held the 16 remaining semifinalists, while the other had 12 empty seats. The goal was to be one of those sitting at the end of the night, since getting to take a load off meant the contestant was one of the finalists.

But before anyone could sit down in the good chairs, the lowest vote-getter of each gender had to go home. That sent Sky and Makar packing before anyone was told they were definitely a finalist, because this show just wouldn’t be “American Idol” if it didn’t take every opportunity to put its contestants through the wringer.

The second woman was a tougher call. Ryan called them out one by one, and while vote totals weren’t announced, he may well have been naming them in order. Paris Bennett, Katharine McPhee, Kellie Pickler and Mandisa all got the good news first. The most notable of that scenario was Ryan trying to do a Southern accent for Pickler: “Ah know you ain’t never been in the top 12 before!” It sounded as ridiculous as it looks.

Lisa Tucker got passed along as well, which left McGhee and Brown as the final two vying for one spot. Ryan asked Randy Jackson who he thought would advance to the finals; he said Brown. Judging from McGhee’s expression, that’s what she thought as well.

The guys had a similar progression. Hicks, Young and Daughtry all were told they were safe, and ran across the stage to safety. The only difference was that while the women had a harder time rushing in their heels, the men raced to the seats like they were trying out for the Olympics.

Next came Covais, who was in the bottom three last week. Ryan told him that he was safe, and the 16-year-old looked as if he was in shock before he headed to the other side of the stage. Everyone mobbed him with relief; he’s clearly a likeable guy who just happens not to sing well enough to really be a contender.

That left Yamin, Covington and McKinney left on the couches. When Seacrest turned to Yamin next, he seemed to relax a bit, figuring he was safe. He was right, and strolled to safety, thus leaving the McKinney-Covington duo to sweat it out.

Covington got the good news. Even better news is that from here on out, only one contestant goes home each week. In simple terms, the first goal for everyone now is not to come in last.

Craig Berman is a writer in Washington, D.C.

MORE FROM AMERICAN IDOL

Happy birthday, Simon, the best mean Brit ever

Happy birthday, Simon, the best mean Brit ever ‘Idol Gives Back’ returns to ‘American Idol’ Ellen brings EveryFan sensibility to ‘Idol’ Paula Abdul wishes Ellen luck on ‘Idol’   Add American Idol headlines to your news reader: