The ‘American Idol’ Top 24 Are Revealed

By Bridget Tyler on February 18th, 2010

(That’s the girls. Check out the boys below!)

America may have been more focused on its gold medals than its idol’s last night, but the top 24 finalists for the ninth season of “American Idol” were still announced yesterday.

Some of the disqualifications were unexpected, like Chris Golightly, who, according to internet rumor, was disqualified because of a previous contract with a boy band. Golightly contended that the contract had already expired when he auditioned. Golightly was an early favorite because of an amazing audition and his heartbreaking back story of foster care and struggle. He’s taking the news pretty hard. According to the Joe’s Place Blog, “Watching ‘Idol’ for Chris tonight just killed him. They acted as if he never existed, when he gave his heart and soul.”

The heartbreak didn’t end with Golightly. Shelby Dressel, who overcame her disability to audition, didn’t make it despite Simon Cowell’s judgment that losing her was a mistake. Ellen DeGeneres was so torn that she invited the 18 year old Florida native to be a guest on her show next week.

Angela Martin and Thaddeus Johnson fell before the judges axe, despite Kara DioGuiardi trying desperately to help Marin struggle through.

Despite the sad cuts, Idol Season 9 is full of amazing voices. The final list:

1. Michael Lynche

2. Didi Benami

3. Katelyn Epperly

4. Casey James

5. Aaron Kelly

6. Lee Dewyze

7. Todrick Hall

8. Janell Wheeler

9. Tyler Grady

10. Lacey Brown