American Idol moved into the current decade! This is big news and the producers weren't about to let the contestants take on such a momentous occasion without support. This week, Tommy Hilfiger returned to his role as the contestants' image consultant to give them some pointers on style. Namely that they should have it. Both on and off the stage.
Of course, when edited as a voice over, set to catchy music as contestants frolic in a field of fabric, Tommy's advice at least manages to sound exciting, even if its not exactly profound.
The contestants also had the guidance of the steadfastJimmy Iovine – who was joined this week by Akon, the support of their biggest fans, the judges (who, based on their wardrobe choices, must have had either a funeral or a Johnny Cash memorial to attend immediately after the show), and as an extra boost of morale, video montages of their hometown supporters.
All this, plus a duet of duets, a trio, and seven performances wasn't enough to fill the 120 minutes of air time. Ryan Seacrest, did what Ryan usually does best; stalling for time with ad-lib discourse, a task that is infinitely easier when having it with people who have something interesting or meaningful to say. That is to say, people other than the judges.
