The first results night of Season 8 brought only one mild surprise: Michael Sarver (pictured) outpaced Anoop Desai by a mere 20,000 votes to advance to the Top 12. Joining him, as expected, were Alexis Grace and Danny Gokey. But plesae don't feel sorry for Anoop...I'd place big money on him being named one of the wildcard finalists.

First off, I've gotta say how much I approve of the changes the producers have made to the show format. The addition of Kara DioGuardi to the panel of judges has brought us a voice that, at times, is almost as sharp and clear as Simon's, but without the unnecessary insults. Also, I'm really digging the fresh new approach of determining the Top 12...it feels like the show has taken on a "let's cut to the chase" attitude, and I couldn't agree more. The one thing I could have done without was having each contestant's parents sit with Ryan to greet them afterwards. When Ryan asked them what they thought of their child's performance, what did you think they were going to say?? Well, here's what I say...

The first group of American Idol contestants performs tonight - and you'll get to vote for your favorite!

Don't miss the 2-hour show tonight at 8/7c on FOX!

Read on to find out who sings!

Watch out Ryan, this little girl is ready to take over and host American Idol!

Read on to see the video!

For the first time in the history of “American Idol,” all seven winners of the Fox reality show gathered together in the same location, thanks to the opening of Disney’s Hollywood Studios new attraction, “the American Idol Experience.”

After a few cuts and many surprises from last night's American Idol, the judges have narrowed it down to the Top 36!  Find out who goes on and who goes home in a 2-hour Idol special tonight on FOX! 

Watch as the remaining Hollywood hopefuls try to convince the American Idol judges to let them make it into the next round!  You never know what'll happen when dreams are on the line.  Find out if your favorites make it through!

American Idol's infamous bikini girl Katrina Darrell got the boot last night, but something makes us think she's not fading from the limelight anytime soon.

Ryan called Darrell Thursday on his radio show, but instead was met by her chipper newly recorded voicemail.

LISTEN | Ryan leaves a voicemail for 'bikini girl'



LISTEN | Katrina Darrell's Voicemail Megamix