The dark horse wins

The dark horse, the underdog wins.

Although Kris has always been safe in the voting for American Idol, I always thought Adam will win. It's a bit of a shocker, for me, at least; Simon did not even stand when the camera zoomed in on the judges when the result was announced. Throughout the season, Adam made great performances, one after another, while Kris seesawed from good to exceptional. Kris last performance was ludicrous considering he is a finalist of a song competition where thousands auditioned for. It exposed the weakness and limits of his voice.

Last night, despite Adam's phenomenal performance, Gem sensed that Adam will be in trouble; especially after Kris's teary-eyed Mom and Dad narrated the free song coupon that Kris, as a child, gave to his mom. I think, Gem was silently hoping -- even pleading with the American voters -- that they had cast more votes for Adam than for Kris.

I texted Gem as soon as the result was announced. She immediately called and asked if the difference in the number of votes was announced, too; the sound of despair evident in her voice. I said no.

Earlier in the season, there were talks of a Christian vote going strongly for Kris and Danny, both very active in their respective churches. Talks of the Christian votes began after photos of Adam, like this below, and a gay porno video, with him as an active participant, started circulating around the net. Kris said he hoped the outcome wouldn't be decided by "having the christian vote."

I think this is why Simon consistently remarked that this is a singing competition and that the better singer should win.

“After the third one leaves, you wonder where do the votes go from that third contestant,” Paula Abdul said after Tuesday's showdown. Evidently, Paula, you have your answer.

It's amazing how a reality TV show can evoke a feeling of loss or triumph not just from my Gem but from a lot of people, as well. The time and effort invested in following the progress of each contestant week after week, perhaps, created a special bond by viewers toward the competitors. And the hopes and despairs, the joy and elation of the contestants are shared, too, by their loyal followers.