Television February 25, 2010
First Four Eliminated on 'American Idol'
Ryan Seacrest broke the news on Thursday night's "American Idol" and announced the first four competitors to leave the show.
Janell Wheeler was the first singer to be cut. The 24-year-old said she "had a feeling" she wouldn't make it to the next round and agreed with the judges about her poor song choice. She told Seacrest, "I wanted a chance to play my guitar and do what I do best one more time." She sang Heart's "What About Love."
Next to get the boot was Ashley Rodriquez. After being eliminated, the 22-year-old said, "I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me from day one." Rodriquez took the stage for the last time to sing "Happy" by Leona Lewis.
The first of the boys to get the ax was the young Joe Muñoz. The 20-year-old was clearly disappointed by Seacrest's announcement and sadly said, "America votes, so I wasn't expecting anything." A smile found its way back on to Muñoz's face when he performed Jason Mraz's "You and I Both."
Last to be cut was rocker Tyler Grady. The judges weren't in love with the 20-year-old's unoriginal '70s-style performance of "American Woman."
Last season's winner Kris Allen returned to perform and talk about his recent trip to earthquake ravaged Haiti. Season 8 contestant Allison Iraheta also took the stage and offered advice to the new contestants.
"Extra" wants to know -- Are you happy with the first four to go home?