Howard Beach’s Pia Toscano was eliminated from “American Idol” last week in a turn of events that shocked many and resulted in the judges expressing anger over the outcome.
During the Wednesday, April 6 episode of “American Idol,” Toscano sang “River Deep Mountain High.” After her performance, she said that she had a good time and that it “was just so much fun.”
As with her previous “Idol” performances, Toscano received positive reviews from the judges, the only piece of constructive criticism being that she needed to work on her stage movement more.
However, Toscano didn’t receive the number of votes she needed to be able to continue in the competition.
Host Ryan Seacrest’s announcement that Toscano received the fewest votes last week and would be leaving the show were met with boos from the audience as the judges and other contestants looked on in surprise.
Celebrity judge Steven Tyler summed it up as, “A mistake is one thing, but lack of passion is unforgivable. They’re wrong. I don’t know what happened with this.”
Jennifer Lopez was also taken aback by the announcement.
“I have no idea what just happened,” she said. “I’m shocked, I’m angry. I don’t even know what to say.”
Randy Jackson pointed out that the elimination proves that no one is ever safe and viewers have to cast their votes.
“You’re one of the best singers in this,” Jackson told Toscano. “I’m never upset on this show and I’m never really mad, but this makes me mad. What is going on?”
Toscano’s elimination had fans and celebrities alike expressing their shock. Taking to Twitter, actor Tom Hanks said, “Don’t have an IDOL habit, but how could the USA vote Pia off? I may be done for the season!”
But the elimination wasn’t the last fans have seen of Toscano. Since being voted off, she has appeared on “Good Day New York,” “The Today Show” and “Live with Regis and Kelly.”
According to a New York Daily News report, Toscano has already signed with Interscope Records. She will also be united with the top 11 contestants when they take part in the 2011 “American Idol” tour.