'American Idol' shocker (spoiler alert!)

In this unusual season of "American Idol" twists and turns, we should have seen that Ryan Seacrest would pull a fast one on us, America. But if you think about it, there are four judges, so it makes sense that ...

(See after the jump for the spoiler.)

... each would have a wild card pick, giving America 13 finalists to consider for coronation.

Yes, we've been had. Top 12 is so last year. Moments ago, Simon, Paula, Randy and Kara picked four contestants — not the typical three — to join the other nine whom America voted through: Adam Lambert, Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez, Alexis Grace, Kris Allen, Allison Iraheta, Michael Sarver, Lil Rounds,  and Danny Gokey.

The wild card picks are Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey, Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai.

Of course, what Ryan and the producers did to America pales in comparison to what they did to poor Anoop Desai, making him think he had lost his big opportunity when Giraud sailed through.

But that means that the walking nervous breakdown that is Tatiana Del Toro is FINALLY out: "We love you and we've had a lot of fun with you. You are brilliant, and you will be going places," Paula told her, trying to let her down gently.

Adios mamita, hello Top 13.

— Maria Elena Fernandez

Update: A previous version of this post listed the name of finalist Jorge Nunez twice.

Comments

[MomNextDoor]

I've been rooting for Anoop because he was so good in the UNC group, but not sure he translates well enough to this venue. Hopefully he's smart enough to figure out how to adapt for it. Go, 'noop-dawg

I seriously wonder if Tatiana has bipolar or some other real mental health disorder. I hope she gets help.

[mike woglom]

ummm....can you bout posting this drivel until the show actually airs on the west freaking coast.....

You should have your forehead spiked

[moonstars]

It would have simple had Tatiana not been able to sing... BUT, she could sing, and was actually better than Anoop. That was clear. I remember thinking, Oh no! she's such a nervous wreck, but now she can sing.. Now what? But I did like her performance, and it's not like I don't like her. . It's just that she kind of gets on my nerves a bit. Well, now it's solved. Except she can sing! confused.

[SDTim]

Well, it's about time they change it up a bit! Anyone remember in the first season (when Kelly Clarksoin won) that it was a top 10? I think it was in the second season it became a Top 12

[loudel]

better check your math, I count 14 names from the lists you gave us.

[Ann M]

I only hope Tatiana doesn't try something desperate outside someone's house. Or the theatre.

A Top 13 isn't the only thing different about this year. It's the first time that there is no contestant I actively dislike. Good group!

[Happy4LA]

Was it the lighting, contacts, or me, but did Paula look a bit glassy eyed tonight? Tonight's performances were mostly all great. A big step up from the 2 previous weeks.

[Marco]

Ta-ta, Tatiana. We will miss your drama. Meanwhile, could someone tell the Idol producers to fix the microphones at the judges table? The judges love to bang on the table to emphasize their remarks creating a constant, loud thudding sound. You would think the sound people would either filter that out or insulate the mics with some sound deadening material between the base of the mics and the table. It's quite irritating trying to listen to the judges while that banging, thud-noise goes on.

Meanwhile, would someone coach Kara on getting her comments together? All I've heard are her insipid, inane whining that she doesn't know who the contestants are, or she's confused about who someone is. Fact is, Simon and Paula offer the most lucid appraisals and advice time after time.

[k]

Jorge Nunez,...Jorge Nunez

So nice you counted him twice?

Guess your favorite is already established, eh?

[Chuck Sander]

Watched this show for the first time last night. The judges have got to go, everyone of them seems so arrogant, and the show seems manipulative, left a bad taste. The singing I thought sounded like Karakoe for the most part. Same old songs, nothing risky or catchy. Is this the state of todays music business? No wonder it is in toruble.

[PC]

PC and diversity trump talent...but they do have to sell Coke and Ford now don't they....why did they waste our time Thursday night.....weren't the two "Ladies" preordained. Now they can take their place along side the Hispanic vote, the ADA vote, and the special SWA vote. Now does anyone really think Michael Sarver has a chance? He's only there for the Jock vote.

[wiseguy]

loudel, I think you better do a recount...