Fan Favorite Eliminated in 'American Idol' Shocker: Episode Recap

Ryan Seacrest warned us early on in tonight's Top 6 elimination show that many fans would be disappointed with the results. Right then and there it became somewhat obvious who was going home. But first, let's touch on the night's happenings.

The Idols paid a visit to the British Consulate because, well, there's that whole wedding thing going on and Rob Reiner wasn't available. But Fred Willard was!

Casey Abrams and Fred shared a moment where I'm convinced neither knew who the other was. The wheel of random celebrity Idol run-ins keeps on spinning; where it lands nobody knows!

Back to the live show, the kids took to the stage for a clunky medley of Carole King hits, featuring Scotty surrounded by a group of unenthusiastic teen girls. The whole thing felt very stiff and antiquated. But boy, does Scotty sound good when he's not twanged out on some country song.

Tonight's Ford music video kept up the hallucinogenic theme of recent weeks, with the kids in a white room, drawing furniture while singing 'Our House.' Then everyone's eyes turned to saucers and the walls started melting ...

Speaking of hallucinogenics, Crystal Bowersox and her bong mic stand returned to the 'Idol' stage, with organ, harmonica and lap steel accompaniment, on her new single, 'Ridin' With the Radio.' Crystal sounded -- and looked -- amazing, which is all she'll have to go on since Ryan didn't give her a chance to plug anything.

Next up, a little question and answer sesh, brought to you by AT&T. Ryan fired off some viewer queries at the Top 6. We learned that given the chance to perform with one artist, living or dead, Casey Abrams would chose Jazz pianist Oscar Peterson. No one knew who he was talking about except for two people in the audience and Randy, who made sure we knew he knew. Also, Lauren gave a shout-out to those in the Southeast affected by the tornadoes, and Scotty revealed that he used to work at a grocery store. Really wish Rob Reiner was back ...

Finally, Ryan started to get down to the results, explaining that he'd be calling the Idols up in random order. But first, that font of musical wisdom and sassy soundbites, Jimmy Iovine, commented on each of the contestants' strengths and weaknesses in a pre-tape.

Haley came forward first and Jimmy expressed concern over her lack of self-awareness. Who is Haley? This has to be one of the most annoying and persistent complaints the contestants get, year after year. Haley shrugged it off and Randy mouthed "I know who you are" from the judges' panel. Not to worry, tonight, however. Haley was safe, whoever she is.

Scotty stepped up next. Jimmy compared him to Johnny Cash, in a roundabout way, and was worried that Scotty's "magnificent subtlety" might be lost on viewers. Ryan made him sweat it out and called Lauren up. Jimmy fretted that she's too concerned with negative comments. Lauren promised to put it aside and just be grateful she's still in the competition. But there was no immediate relief for her either, as Ryan sent Lauren off with Scotty.

Jimmy was on point with much of his commentary tonight, but when it came to Casey Abrams, he nailed it. He pointed out Casey's great musicianship, but asked that he stop the growling, as "the family dog does not vote on the show." Rawr!

James Durbin followed Casey, still unaware of his fate. Jimmy pointed out that James was more believable when he sings a melody with a rock feel than when he tries to go metal, a spot-on observation. There was no point in dangling James' fate in front of him, especially after last night's great performance of The Shirelles' 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow?' James promptly took a seat next to Haley.

Bottom three vet, Jacob Lusk followed James. The warring patterns in Jacob's attire last night were more fitting for 'Dancing With the Stars,' according to Jimmy. He put the gospel singer on "banana peel" status, which isn't surprising, considering he's hanging by a thread, albeit, a very colorful one.

Before Bruno Mars took to the stage to perform, 'The Lazy Song,' complete with a brass band lounging on a couch while playing, Lauren was let off the hook. Scotty, Casey and Jacob, though not necessarily the bottom three as the order was random tonight, were the last to know.

Scotty was swiftly sent back to safety with Casey and Jacob remaining. Surely, Jacob would be the one sent packing, but it was Casey who took the fall. Choosing to reprise 'I Put a Spell on You,' Casey let loose (perhaps what J.Lo was talking about last night), walking into the audience and up to the judges, kissing and hi-fiving along the way. But he ended the song, staring into Haley's eyes, singing "you're mine." Aww.

And then there were five. I'm a bit surprised to see Casey go before Jacob, but it seems gospel-soul resonates with viewers more that jazzy-blues this season. Or maybe Jacob wooed the fashionistas, wearing a suit louder than he is. What do you guys think?

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