This has been a huge controversial topic since the American Idol auditions began airing -- Joanna Pacitti's eligibility. Joanna has been signed to a record deal before and released a few songs, then was dropped by the label when her album didn't do well on the charts. During her audition on Idol, new judge Kara DioGuardi recognized who she was, so it's not like they didn't know her history when she tried out. She obviously got the pass to Hollywood, and on Wednesday's show, they chose her to advance. Just one night later, they decided that she was "ineligible" and are booting her from the show and replacing her with eliminated contestant Felicia Barton. FOX didn't give a reason why she was suddenly "ineligible," but we all know why.
Here's the thing that pisses me off about it. I'm down with American Idol being for the virtually unknown, because it gives the underdog a chance and someone who may not be able to come up with the money it takes for auditions and demos and all that jazz. I get that. Here's where I think this move is total and utter bullsh*t. Like I said, Kara knew who Joanna was from the start. If they want Idol to be about unknowns getting a fair shake, then tell her she can't tryout because she's not an unknown. But no, all 4 judges, the Idol producers, and FOX let Joanna try out. Let her get a pass and go to Hollywood. Give her the go-ahead to advance to the next round. THEN pull the carpet right out from under her and suddenly she's "ineligible?" No, I'm sorry, but that's a totally d*ck move. Screw you American Idol, and screw you FOX.
