- Idol recap: Elliott's out!
- Talk about the show [your thoughts]
- Idol Flashbacks Quiz [quiz]
- Debate: Is Simon too mean? [your thoughts]
- Read the latest Idol gossip [blog]
Although American Idol is now in its fifth season ‑- the time when reality shows start to get stale ‑- this Fox reality show is still hitting all the high notes with critics and fans. As we approach the finale, we keep track of the aspiring singers who keep us tuning in every week ‑- and get us to exercise our index fingers on Tuesday nights. For our take on the finalists, including odds, our predictions and their celebrity look-alikes, read on. And be sure to check back each week for updates. Plus: Who should be booted next? Vote here. And check out our amusing Idol recaps after each show.
Katharine McPhee
21, Los Angeles
Why her: She's America's sweetheart -- and she looks like an Idol.
Why not: As far as talent, Mandisa and Paris are better.
What Simon says: "This show isn't just about singing. You can't just be in your own world, because the American audience will forget [your] performance three or four contestants later."
Celebrity twin: Katie Holmes ‑- minus the crazy boyfriend
Odds: She'll make it to the top five... but mostly because she's so darn girl-next-door cute.
Cast your vote for Katharine here
Taylor Hicks
29, Birmingham, AL
Why him: He's talented, energetic and, most importantly, different. You just can't help but wonder what he'll do next.
Why not: Chris and Paris are going to give him a run for his money. Besides, we so don't see him as pinup material.
What Simon says: "Your appeal is that you're like every dad that's got drunk at a wedding, got on stage and sang. The difference is, you can sing."
Celebrity twin: George Clooney without the Academy Award
Odds: He's Taylor-made for the American Idol finale.
Cast your vote for Taylor here
Elliott Yamin
27, Richmond
Why him: He's hard of hearing and has diabetes. You can't help rooting for someone who has overcome so much.
Why not: He's the Scott Savol of last year. We just hope there are no skeletons in his closet.
What Simon says: "I think you've grown in confidence. I've seen a different you, and you're starting to believe in yourself."
Celebrity twin: Shaggy from Scooby-Doo. Can't ya see it?
Odds: Top six... if he's lucky. But he's starting to grow on us.
Update: Elliott made it a long way, baby! He was in the final three, then was voted out on May 17.
Chris Daughtry
26, McLeansville, NC
Why him: He has the potential to become the next Bo Bice.
Why not: Bo Bice didn't win. And when it comes down to it, Taylor may be a little more talented.
What Simon says: "Thank God for Chris because this was the only real-world performance tonight. Best tonight by a mile."
Celebrity twin: With that bald head? It's definitely Vin Diesel.
Odds: We'll see a lot more of Chris. He'll make it to the final four and, hopefully, beyond.
Update: Chris made it to the finale four, but that was it. In a major shocker, he was voted out on May 10.
Paris Bennett
17, Fayetteville, GA
Why her: Not only is she cute; she has a rockin' voice that is full of soul and has a wide range.
Why not: We can't think of a good reason.
What Simon says: "It's like we're watching two different competitions tonight. The first half is alright, then the second half is brilliant. Very good."
Celebrity twin: Former Passions star Lena Cardwell
Odds: You won't forget Paris. She'll make it to the finals and may even win.
Update: Voters forgot about Paris! She was voted out on May 3.